Chandigarh, 14 February 2026:
The Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virender Kumar, today inaugurated “Nurturing Empowerment Through Reading Access (NETRA)”, a Digital Library for the Visually Impaired, at PRAYAAS, Sector 38-B, Chandigarh.
The inauguration ceremony was held in the august presence of Sh. Satyapal Jain, Ex-MP & Additional Solicitor General of India; Sh. Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary in Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; Smt. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary Social Welfare, Women & Child Development; Smt. Palika Arora, Director Social Welfare, Chandigarh Administration and Sh. Anil Kumar, Chairman-cum-Managing Director NDFDC.
NETRA has been established with the objective of ensuring accessible and inclusive reading facilities for persons with visual impairments. The Digital Library is equipped with modern assistive technologies including screen-reading software, Braille-enabled systems, digital reading devices, and other accessible learning tools. The facility aims to empower visually impaired beneficiaries by providing independent access to educational resources, competitive examination materials, and digital knowledge platforms.
Speaking on the occasion, the Hon’ble Union Minister emphasized the Government of India’s commitment towards implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and highlighted the importance of technology-driven solutions in ensuring equal access and opportunities for Divyangjans.
The Chandigarh Administration reiterated its continued commitment towards inclusive development and strengthening of rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives for persons with disabilities.
The event concluded with interaction with beneficiaries and a visit to the newly established digital library facility.
