Jowai, September 17 : The Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Meghalaya (CRCSRE Shillong), in collaboration with the District Administration of West Jaintia Hills and the Office of the District Social Welfare, Jowai, successfully conducted the 3rd Purple Fair in West Jaintia Hills District on September 17, 2025.
The event aimed at promoting awareness, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PwDs), witnessed an enthusiastic turnout with over 764 participants, including 389 Persons with Disabilities from across the district and beyond. The fair served as a vibrant platform for dialogue, collaboration, and showcasing talents, products, and services by and for persons with disabilities.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Wailadmiki Shylla, Hon’ble MLA of West Jaintia Hills District, and graced by the presence of Abhinav Kumar Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, West Jaintia Hills; L. Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities; Ripaia Passah, Assistant Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities; and Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani, Director, CRCSRE Shillong.
In his welcome address, Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani expressed sincere appreciation to the district administration and social welfare department for their support and partnership. He emphasized the importance of the Purple Fair in raising public awareness, promoting accessibility, and celebrating the achievements of persons with disabilities. He highlighted that the fair is not only a celebration but also a movement toward inclusion, equality, and empowerment.
A key highlight of the event was the active participation of 389 Persons with Disabilities, who engaged in various programs and activities. The fair featured 33 dedicated stalls, where PwDs proudly showcased and sold their handmade products, local crafts, organic goods, assistive tools, and services. These stalls highlighted the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the disability community.
Wailadmiki Shylla, in a deeply engaging gesture, visited each stall, interacted warmly with the beneficiaries, purchased items to support their work, and encouraged them to continue their efforts. In his address, he acknowledged the commendable work of CRCSRE Shillong, not just in Jowai but across the entire state of Meghalaya, for consistently empowering persons with disabilities through skill development, rehabilitation, and inclusive programs.
Abhinav Kumar Singh, IAS, reaffirmed the district’s ongoing commitment to inclusive development and praised the collaborative efforts between CRCSRE, the district administration, and local communities. L. Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the need for continuous outreach, accessibility, and social integration for PwDs, and urged all stakeholders to work hand-in-hand to ensure dignity and equal opportunity for all.
The event also featured cultural performances by persons with disabilities, awareness sessions on disability rights and government schemes, and interactive exhibitions. The fair served as a bridge between the community and service providers, creating a positive, supportive, and inclusive atmosphere.
The 3rd Purple Fair was not just a celebration but a collective affirmation that disability is not inability. The enthusiastic participation, community support, and institutional collaboration made the event a significant milestone in the journey toward a more inclusive and empowered Meghalaya.
About CRCSRE Shillong : The Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Meghalaya (CRCSRE Shillong) functions under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. The Centre is dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities through capacity building, skill development, therapeutic services, and community-based rehabilitation initiatives across Meghalaya and the Northeast region.
