Minister Subhash Phal Dessai announced that the International Purple Fest Goa 2025 will take place from October 9 to 12, with an inclusive stage set to welcome attendees. In a major accessibility push, a specially designed boardwalk was inaugurated at Miramar Beach, ensuring seamless beach access for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The initiative, developed by GTDC, marks a significant step toward inclusive tourism and infrastructure in Goa.
In a major step towards inclusive education, 240 special educators in Goa are being trained to implement the NIEPID-approved DISHA curriculum for children with intellectual disabilities. The initiative is part of the Sewa Pakhwada Abhiyaan and aims to introduce a standardised curriculum across special and inclusive schools in the state.
In a pioneering move for inclusive policing, Goa Police, in collaboration with DEPwD, the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, and iProbono India, successfully concluded a four-day sensitisation and awareness training on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. Held from August 18–21 in Panjim, the training equipped over 650 police officers with the tools to engage persons with disabilities with empathy and dignity.
The Disability Rights Association of Goa, in collaboration with Caritas Goa, launched the Freedom from Physical Inaccessibility campaign, introducing the YES TO ACCESS app aimed at making public spaces more accessible for persons with disabilities and the elderly.
The International Purple Fest Goa 2025 will be held from 9th to 12th October, celebrating the rights and achievements of persons with disabilities. With the theme "Think Inclusive – Advancing Inclusion through Universal Design for Everyone", the fest will focus on accessibility, rural inclusion, and innovation through exhibits, conferences, performances, and more.
