Context

• Divya Kala Mela', a unique event showcasing the products and craftsmanship of entrepreneurs/artisans with disabilities across the country is being organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, under National Disabled Finance and Development Corporation, in Surat.

 Key Points

•  The program was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India on December 29, 2023.
•  The department has grand plans to promote this concept, as part of which 'Divya Kala Mela' will be organized across the country. This program will also be organized in other cities during 2023-2024.
• Through this, an engaging experience will be presented to the visitors in the form of vibrant products from different parts of the country including Jammu & Kashmir, North Eastern States, handicrafts, handlooms, embroidery works and packaged foods etc.
• Around 100 artisans/artists and entrepreneurs with disabilities from around 20 States/UTs will showcase their products and skills.
• The following wide range of products will be available here: Home Decor & Lifestyle, Clothing, Stationary & Eco-Friendly Products, Packaged Food & Organic Products, Toys & Gifts, Personal Accessories - Jewellery, Clutch Bags.
• This will be an opportunity for everyone to be 'Vocal for Local' and see/buy the products made by Divyang artisans with their extra determination.

 Benefits

• This is a unique initiative towards the economic empowerment of disabled people.
• Divya Kala Mela presents a great platform for marketing and showcasing the products and skills of Persons with Disabilities (PWD).
• Divya Kala Mela, Surat is the 12th fair in the series starting from 2022 in which events will be organized in Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Guwahati, Indore, Jaipur, Varanasi, Secunderabad, Karnataka, Chennai, Patna.

Important Facts For Exam

Gujarat

• Establishment: 1 May 1960
• Chief Minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Top Cotton Producing State: Gujarat
• State with highest installed rooftop solar capacity
• First State of Wind Energy Potential