Prayagraj, February 22, 2025 – In a remarkable display of inclusivity and compassion, the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) organized a mega distribution camp at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, providing free aids and appliances to over 20,000 persons with disabilities and senior citizens. The initiative, valued at ₹20 crores, ensured that pilgrims in need could fully participate in the spiritual gathering.
The camp, set up at the heart of the Maha Kumbh site, distributed essential mobility and assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, walking sticks, and other rehabilitation aids. These devices were provided free of cost to beneficiaries, many of whom had traveled from across the country to partake in the holy dip at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
The event was graced by key dignitaries, including Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, and Shri S. Govindraj, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of India. Speaking at the camp, Shri Pawaskar emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering inclusivity.
“This camp embodies the true spirit of accessibility and empowerment,” said Shri Pawaskar. “Ensuring that individuals with disabilities and senior citizens can participate fully in spiritual gatherings like the Maha Kumbh is a significant step towards creating an inclusive society. ALIMCO’s efforts in making this possible are truly commendable.”
ALIMCO’s Commitment to Empowerment
ALIMCO, a 100% government-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, has long been at the forefront of providing affordable and high-quality rehabilitation aids to persons with disabilities. Established with the mission of enhancing mobility and independence, ALIMCO operates not for profit but to serve the needs of the disabled community across India.
The corporation’s presence at the Maha Kumbh underscores its commitment to reaching underserved populations, particularly during large-scale events where accessibility is often overlooked. By setting up a dedicated distribution center at the Kumbh, ALIMCO ensured that pilgrims with disabilities could access essential aids without hindrance.
A Historic Step Towards Inclusivity
The Maha Kumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracts millions of pilgrims seeking spiritual solace. However, for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, navigating the massive crowds and uneven terrain can be a daunting challenge. ALIMCO’s initiative not only addressed these challenges but also set a precedent for future events to prioritize accessibility.
The distribution camp was a lifeline for many beneficiaries, including elderly pilgrims who received walking sticks and hearing aids, and individuals with mobility impairments who were provided with wheelchairs. The initiative also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government bodies and public sector enterprises in addressing social issues.
A Model for Future Events
ALIMCO’s efforts at the Maha Kumbh serve as a model for other large-scale events, both religious and secular, to incorporate accessibility into their planning. By ensuring that persons with disabilities and senior citizens are not excluded from participating in cultural and spiritual gatherings, such initiatives pave the way for a more inclusive society.
As the Maha Kumbh continues to draw pilgrims from across the globe, ALIMCO’s work stands as a testament to the power of compassion and innovation in transforming lives. For the 20,000 beneficiaries who received aids and appliances, the Kumbh was not just a spiritual journey but also a step towards greater independence and dignity.
About ALIMCO
The Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. Established to manufacture and distribute rehabilitation aids for persons with disabilities, ALIMCO operates with the primary goal of enhancing the quality of life for disabled individuals across India. Its initiatives, such as the Maha Kumbh distribution camp, reflect its unwavering commitment to social welfare and inclusivity.
Photo Caption: A beneficiary receives a hearing aid from Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, in the presence of Shri S. Govindraj, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of India, and ALIMCO officials at the Maha Kumbh distribution camp in Prayagraj.
