A sign language interpreter helps translate as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan delivers his speech to motivate differently-abled people during the closing ceremony of ‘Special – Carnival of the Different’ organized by the Ministry of Social Justice at Tagore Theater in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday. | Photo credit: NIRMAL HARINDRAN
‘Savishesha – Carnival of the Different’ is a new step towards achieving the goal of making Kerala disability friendly, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
He was speaking after inaugurating the valedictorians of the three-day function for the differently-abled organized by the social justice department here on Wednesday.
“Savishesha carnival was not only a celebration but also a declaration by the various able-bodied that there is nothing they cannot do,” the Chief Minister said.
Different people from different fields showcased their talent in art, literature and sports in the last three days and showed that talent knows no bounds. The determination they showed was a lesson for the younger generation, Mr. Vijayan said.
Organized by the Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission and the Department of Labor for the differently abled, the job fair has received a good response from job seekers and employers. “Standing on your own feet brings not only financial independence, but also an increase in self-confidence,” he emphasized.
At the event, he urged parents to take their children out of the four walls of their homes and identify and develop their talents and instill in them that they belong in this world just like anyone else. Different physical fitness did not mean that one was less; only he had a different talent, said the Chief Minister.
Students also had a role in recognizing the special talents of those who studied with them and saw them as others did. Teachers should equip students for this, he said, urging everyone to make the most of events like the carnival.
Mr Vijayan pointed out that attitudes towards the differently abled have changed and people have recognized that they want equal rights. This was the reason why there was a shift from the welfare of the differently abled to ensuring their rights.
Mr. Vijayan said the government has increased reservation and pension for the differently-abled and introduced initiatives like barrier-free Kerala and Anuyatra to send a message that society is with them.
He congratulated the participants and winners of the festival and expressed the hope that their achievements will inspire others.
Social Justice Minister R. Bindu said that the carnival would be celebrated in the coming years as well.
Dr. Bindu said the government has sanctioned ₹23.85 crore through additional permission to provide tricycles, e-wheelchairs and other assistive devices to the applicants through the Kerala State Differently Abled Welfare Corporation Ltd. These will be available this financial year.
Malappuram district bagged the first rank in overall performance. Thiruvananthapuram occupied the second position and Kottayam the third position.
The minister presented prizes to district teams and winners of literary competitions and sports events, including the winner of the carnival logo design competition.
Published – 21 Jan 2026 21:14 IST
