Mumbai's First Divyang Park Opens at Kandivali

Posted by NILESH WAGHELA 

Mumbai: Mumbai has inaugurated its first Divyang Park, dedicated to children with disabilities, visual impairments, and special needs, in Kandivali East. Located at Ashok Chakraborty Marg, this park was made possible through the efforts and funding of Shri Atul Bhatkhalkar, a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.

The park was officially opened on March 14, 2024, with a ceremony led by renowned psychiatrist Dr. Rajendra Barve, and honored guest Dr. Rubina Shankar Lal, Trustee of SOPAN. A special dance performance by children with disabilities, organized by the Shilpa Ganatra Youth Zone Dance Academy, added a memorable touch to the event. Shilpa Ganatra will also oversee the park's management.

Designed to cater to children with various physical and mental disabilities, the park aims to provide a supportive environment for both children and their mothers. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for an inclusive society, this park seeks to promote empathy, not just sympathy, towards those with disabilities.

The initiative aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, which upholds the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities. 

The creation of Divyang Parks like this one helps spread the message of inclusion, both within India and globally. 

Similar parks have already been established in South India, Madhya Pradesh, and other parts of Maharashtra.

The central government passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act for the rights of persons with disabilities. This law is to give the disabled the right to live with dignity.

Through this park the message of inclusion will reach not only in the country but also in the whole world.