PANAJI
The International Purple Fest (Goa) has decided to rope in 40 interpreters to help those with hearing disabilities understand various sessions of the event, starting on January 8.
Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai stated that the seminar’s core purpose is ensuring accessibility, and addressing challenges for persons with disabilities (PwDs) while, ISLIA President Monica Punjabi, one of the organisers, revealed about involving 40 sign language interpreters.
“These interpreters play a vital role in making all aspects of the festival, from panel discussions to exhibitions, bird walks, and swimming, accessible for the deaf community,” she said, in a press statement issued by the State Commission for PwDs.
A pre-event workshop held on Saturday delved into critical themes, including the significance of early intervention within the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants explored the unique challenges and opportunities surrounding accessibility, emphasizing the India perspective on the mental health and well-being of sign language interpreters. Sessions also offered valuable insights into the intersection of bilingualism, drawing from personal experiences.
The comprehensive discussions underscored the importance of aligning practices with SDGs and highlighted the crucial role early intervention plays in fostering a supportive environment for sign language interpreters’ mental health and overall well-being.
Earlier on Friday, CM Pramod Sawant addressed 1,000 volunteers at the preparatory gathering of the Fest.
