PANAJI
The International Purple Fest – Goa 2025 is set to return from October 9 to 12 for its third and largest edition, reaffirming Goa’s position as a global leader in accessibility and inclusion. Organised by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the United Nations India, the festival will host over 10,000 registered participants, delegations from 25 countries, and an estimated 50,000 visitors.
Under the leadership of Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, the event highlights Goa’s technology-driven approach to empowerment. The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) complex has been transformed into a fully accessible venue featuring wheelchair-friendly pathways, tactile floor indicators, sensory rooms, unisex toilets, and real-time interpretation systems.
A new Purple Fest mobile app, developed with IIT Delhi, offers indoor navigation, audio descriptions, and location-based assistance, promoting independent mobility. The 2025 edition introduces 25 global conferences, 200 assistive technology stalls, and 10 para-sport events, alongside signature cultural showcases like Purple Conventions and Purple Street.
With its theme “Rural Inclusion,” the Fest aims to bridge the rural-urban accessibility gap through mobile therapy units and digital accessibility surveys. Officials said Goa’s participatory approach—where persons with disabilities shaped the festival design—sets a national benchmark for inclusive governance.
Accessible boardwalk inaugurated at Miramar beach
PANAJI: In a step towards inclusive and barrier-free tourism, the government on Tuesday inaugurated a specially designed Accessible Boardwalk at Miramar beach, enabling Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to access the beach and even enter the water safely. Developed by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), the project will be a key attraction during the International Purple Fest 2025. Floating wheelchairs will also be provided for PwDs to enjoy the sea.
The event was attended by Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar, and GTDC officials. Phal Dessai said the initiative reflects Goa’s commitment to inclusion, while Khaunte termed it a milestone in “Tourism for All.” Pawaskar added that accessibility is a right, not a favour. The boardwalk symbolises Goa’s focus on inclusive tourism.
