The Social Welfare Department of Anantnag successfully organized Sugayma Yatra 2025 at the Zaiba Appa Institute of Inclusive Education, marking a significant milestone in the Accessible India Campaign. The event aimed at fostering inclusivity and empowering Divyangas (persons with disabilities) by addressing key accessibility challenges in the district.
Government’s Commitment to Accessibility
The event saw the active participation of specially-abled individuals, highlighting the importance of creating a barrier-free environment for them. Officials from the Social Welfare Department of Anantnag emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring equal opportunities for Divyangjans, promoting policies that enhance mobility, infrastructure, and support services.
Padma Shri Javaid Tak Raises Accessibility Concerns
Renowned disability rights activist Padma Shri Javaid Tak attended the event and voiced concerns about the lack of accessible infrastructure in Bijbehara town. He stated,
“I visited various offices in Bijbehara today, and to my disappointment, I found that only one office had proper facilities for specially-abled individuals.”
His remarks underscore the urgent need for structural improvements in government and public spaces to align with the Accessible India Campaign.
Empowering Divyangas Through Inclusive Initiatives
Sugayma Yatra 2025 not only raised awareness but also provided a platform for discussions on:
✅ Infrastructure improvements to ensure accessibility in public spaces
✅ Skill development programs for specially-abled individuals
✅ Policy implementation to safeguard disability rights
✅ Collaboration between government bodies & NGOs to enhance inclusivity
A Call for Action: Strengthening Accessibility in J&K
With events like Sugayma Yatra, the government aims to transform Anantnag & Kashmir into a model of inclusivity. However, as highlighted by Javaid Tak, there is still much to be done to bridge the accessibility gap in towns like Bijbehara.
For true inclusivity, authorities must:
🔹 Implement strict accessibility guidelines in all public buildings
🔹 Ensure adequate facilities in government offices & transportation hubs
🔹 Increase funding & awareness programs for disability rights