Kupwara, August 26, 2023. Spark Minda Foundation, the CSR arm of prominent automotive component manufacturer Spark Minda, conducted an 'Empowerment of People with Disabilities Camp' in Zangli Garrison, Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, from August 21st to 26th, 2023. During the camp, Spark Minda Foundation collaborated with the Indian Army to extend support to people with disabilities (PwDs).
Mrs. Sarika Minda, Chairperson of Spark Minda Foundation, expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for their continued partnership and expanding their reach to more such people. She said, "Spark Minda Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for their support. We thank the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their belief, and our partners for their dedication. Our fifth year of collaboration has amplified the impact on the lives of PwDs' in the union territory. The growing positive response fuels our commitment to empowering more PwDs towards realising their full potential."
The initiative reached out to over 1000 people affected by disabilities. With the objective of fostering equal growth and development, the camp offered diverse assistance to over 1000 PwDs. This encompassed the distribution of assistive devices such as Artificial Limbs, Calipers, Crutches, and Hearing Aids. Additionally, the camp facilitated the crucial process of UDID registration, emphasizing empowerment and inclusivity.This marks the second consecutive camp organized by the Foundation in Kupwara and the third in Jammu and Kashmir. The initial camp for PwDs was hosted by Spark Minda and the Indian Army in 2018 in Barmulla, Uri. Furthermore, a 10-day Mega Camp for PwDs took place in February 2023 in Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing the audience, Major General Girish Kalia, Vishisht Sewa Medal, General Officer Commanding Vajr Division said, “The collaboration of the Indian Army with Spark Minda Foundation is able to improve and sustain many lives in the valley. I would like to thank the people who participated in the camp. I also would like to compliment Spark Minda for their noble initiative.”
Since its establishment in 2015, Spark Minda Foundation's flagship program, "Saksham - Empowerment of People with Disabilities," has been dedicated to transforming the lives of PwDs. The initiative has impacted over 16,000 PwDs, provided UDID support to more than 1,700 individuals, and facilitated employment opportunities for over 1,000 PwDs within the Spark Minda Group. In Kupwara, a joint team of 20 members from Spark Minda Foundation and volunteers from the Indian Army successfully executed the camp.
The Foundation's impactful efforts were recognized with the National CSR Award in 2019, presented by the President of India and the Finance Minister.Looking ahead, the foundation envisions extending its support to a greater number of individuals with disabilities.
