Gandhinagar, Gujarat | March 09 2025: Spark Minda Foundation, the CSR arm of the Spark Minda Group, successfully organised a five-day Saksham – Camp for Empowerment of People with Disabilities (PwDs) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from 5th March to 9th March 2025. The camp impacted the lives of over 600 PwDs, reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and empowerment.
Ms. Sarika Minda, Chairperson of Spark Minda Foundation, said, “Spark Minda Foundation believes in creating a world where mobility and opportunities are accessible to all. Through Saksham, we aim to not only provide assistive solutions but also empower PwDs to lead independent lives. This camp in Gujarat is another milestone in our journey towards building an inclusive society.”
Along with IIT Gandhinagar, other key partners include the Social Defence Department, Anand; Abhilasha Charitable Trust; Aravalli Physically Handicapped Mandal; Ganpat University; Nyasa Foundation; Society for the Physically Handicapped, Vadodara; The Society for Physically Handicapped; and Uttar Gujarat Viklang Kalyan Sangh.
The camp witnessed participation from over 18 PwDs travelling from Sri Lanka, specifically for their fitments. This is made possible with the invaluable support of Professor Chelva Kumar from the University of Jaffna, Sri Lanka, marking it as a vital step toward global inclusivity for PwDs.
The Saksham Programme is designed to address the critical needs of PwDs by providing:
✔ Artificial limbs and assistive aids to enhance mobility
✔ UDID (Unique Disability ID) registration facilitation for access to government benefits
✔ Support for employment creating sustainable livelihood opportunities
The camp witnessed the participation of Spark Minda Group’s esteemed customers and stakeholders, who experienced first-hand the transformative impact of the initiative and became a part of the change. Their presence underscored the power of collaborative efforts in breaking barriers for PwDs and fostering an inclusive society.
Since its inception in 2015, Saksham has impacted over 25,000 PwDs across India and globally with a strong focus on facilitating assistive solutions and livelihood opportunities. The programme is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The success of the IIT Gandhinagar camp strengthens Spark Minda Foundation’s mission to drive sustainable change and impacting more lives. The foundation remains committed to expanding its reach and organising similar camps in underserved regions, ensuring that every PwD has the opportunity to thrive.
