Svayam's Walkathon And Fit India Event In Delhi Promotes Accessibility And Inclusion

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A Walkathon aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusion was organised in Delhi by Svayam, in partnership with DD News. The event began at 6:00 am, flagged off by Ms Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson of Svayam, alongside Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharti, and Priya Kumar, ADG of Doordarshan.

Over 500 participants from various age groups took part, marching from Doordarshan's office on Copernicus Marg to India Gate and back.

Ms Jindal also initiated the Fit India's Sundays-On-Cycle Event. This event saw the presence of notable figures such as Ramesh Chandra Mishra, MLA from Uttar Pradesh, Mayank Srivastav, Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and Paris Paralympics medalists Nitesh Kumar and Manisha Ramadass.

Svayam is committed to enhancing accessibility across various sectors like sports and education. As an official accessibility partner for events like the World Para Athletics Grand Prix and Khelo India Para Games, they ensure accessible transport and infrastructure for para-athletes. Their efforts aim to create a more inclusive future for all individuals.

The organisation has also launched a pan-India Accessibility Awareness Campaign in celebration of World Accessibility Day on March 27th each year. This initiative has inspired students from Delhi's SRCC College and Hansraj College to pledge their support for accessibility improvements.

Founded in October 2000 by philanthropist Sminu Jindal under the Sminu Jindal Charitable Trust, Svayam is a non-profit dedicated to creating a barrier-free world. The organisation focuses on reforming infrastructure and transportation to be accessible for people with reduced mobility, allowing them independence in exploring their surroundings.

Speaking at the Walkathon event, Sminu Jindal stated: "We at Svayam are elated at the level of participation witnessed in the Walkathon today. True inclusion begins with accessibility. When we create spaces that welcome everyone, regardless of ability, we foster a society that thrives on equality and dignity."

She further emphasised the importance of initiatives like Fit India: "Fit India is a very important initiative which encourages everyone to be aware of how to keep themselves fitter. One of the common sayings holds true here; if India is fit, India will progress to greater heights."

Svayam remains dedicated to breaking barriers and changing mindsets to build an accessible future. They look forward to more collaborations that promote inclusivity and accessibility.