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New Delhi, March 2: In a powerful display of solidarity and advocacy, a march was organized at Rajiv Chowk Metro Station in New Delhi to commemorate International Wheelchair Day 2025, aiming to dismantle misconceptions surrounding wheelchair users and champion accessibility.1
The “Sugamya Yatra,” spearheaded by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE), and the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD), drew participants from various sectors, highlighting the importance of inclusivity.2
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, MSJE, emphasized the event’s dual purpose: to enhance accessibility in both public and private spaces and to foster widespread awareness about inclusivity. “This initiative will not only enhance accessibility in both government and private spaces but also create widespread awareness about inclusivity,” he stated.3
He further highlighted the reactivation of the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, to ensure government buildings are accessible. “We often receive complaints that many buildings are still not fully accessible. Keeping this in mind, the campaign has been reactivated nationwide starting last month, with today’s event marking the beginning in New Delhi,” Aggarwal explained.
The event featured an accessibility walk, providing an interactive experience for citizens and policymakers to understand the daily challenges faced by wheelchair users. Non-disabled participants also engaged in an experiential simulation exercise, using wheelchairs to gain firsthand insight into accessibility barriers.
A panel discussion, featuring policymakers, social activists, and members of the disability community, addressed crucial topics such as inclusivity, accessibility, and disability rights.4
The initiative garnered support from various organizations, including the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (PDDU-NIPPD), Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), and Samarthyam – Centre for Universal Accessibility. Students and faculty members from the School of Planning and Architecture, the Vastu Kala Academy, Asha School, the PDDU-NIPPD, and Delhi University also participated.
This event served as a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society for wheelchair users and persons with disabilities.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided during the International Wheelchair Day event. While the event aimed to promote accessibility and inclusivity, the effectiveness of the initiatives and the accuracy of any future changes in accessibility cannot be guaranteed. This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of any specific policy or organization.
