IDEA Leads Mission to Make Delhi Accessible & Inclusive for Divyangjans
Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan celebrates Phase One success, launches Sugamya Delhi Abhiyan on GAAD 2025
New Delhi, May 16, 2025: With a powerful vision to transform India into an inclusive capital of the world, the Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneur Association (IDEA) led a landmark Stakeholder Consultation on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2025 at the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) in Dwarka, New Delhi.
The event marked the celebration of the first phase of the Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan—an ambitious campaign led by IDEA—and launched the next chapter: Sugamya Delhi Abhiyan, a city-wide movement to make Delhi a truly accessible and inclusive capital.
Over 100+ expert stakeholders from across the country, including NGOs, private sector leaders, CSR representatives, accessibility professionals, and government officials, came together to support the mission, both in person and virtually.
IDEA at the Helm of Accessibility Movement in India
IDEA, founded by President Awardee Mallikarjuna Iytha, is a national organization working for the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities through entrepreneurship, employment, and accessibility. With a track record of empowering 15,00+ Divyangjan as entrepreneurs and enabling employment for over 5,000 individuals, IDEA continues to shape the nation’s inclusion agenda.
Speaking at the consultation, Mallikarjuna Iytha, the visionary behind the Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan, said: “If India is to become a Vishwaguru, Divyangjans must lead from the front. They are contributors to our society—it’s just a matter of ensuring accessibility, so they can step out and lead. Accessibility must become a mandate.”
He emphasized that Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan, launched on May 1, 2025, was inspired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) and aims to take that national vision from the grassroots level in Dwarka to Delhi and beyond.
Sugamya Dwarka to Sugamya Delhi: A Model in the Making
The Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan has in just 15 days created a significant grassroots impact. More than 70+ public and private buildings across Dwarka—including government offices like the National Institute of Social Defence, MCD, NHAI, schools, universities, banks, malls, parks, bus stops, and footpaths—have been assessed for accessibility. Over 500 people including experts, volunteers, and stakeholders have been engaged in the process.
Numerous institutions and companies publicly pledged to upgrade and maintain accessible infrastructure. Representatives from many of these assessed institutions attended the stakeholder consultation and shared their commitment to making Dwarka the first fully accessible sub-city of India.
Leadership Support and Stakeholder Commitments
The event was graced by Smt. Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Member of Parliament from South West Delhi, who extended her full support and was named Purple Ambassador for the campaign.
“It’s time for every citizen to take responsibility. Point out barriers, demand change, and support inclusive design—whether it’s government or private infrastructure,” she said. “I stand with IDEA and commit to contribute in mission mode to make Dwarka and Delhi accessible.”
Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), appreciated IDEA’s work in collaboration with the Office of the CCPD, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and sensitization.
“Political will and public support are key to expanding impact. IDEA is showing how grassroots and national goals can align.”
Dr. S. Govindraj, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, also pledged his ongoing support and expressed interest in visiting sites under the campaign to further encourage real change.
Purple Building Certification and Accessibility Guidelines for Events Launched
One of the key announcements during the event was the introduction of the Purple Building Certification Scheme—a pioneering framework created by AMTZ, in partnership with ICMR and IDEA. The certification aims to ensure all types of buildings adhere to universal design standards, promoting safety, accessibility, and dignity for all.
In addition, Accessibility Guidelines for Events—prepared by IDEA—were also launched to help event organizers create inclusive experiences across India.
Towards a Truly Inclusive Capital
With stakeholders from across sectors committing their support, the Sugamya Delhi Abhiyan begins as a people-led, expert-supported, and government-backed campaign to reimagine Delhi as a city for all. The Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneurs Association (IDEA) calls upon the public, private sector, civil society, and citizens to join the mission. Learn more and get involved: https://idea4newindia.org/