Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the 36th permanent centre of Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), widely known for its world-renowned ‘Jaipur Foot’, in Jagdalpur, Bastar district. This milestone marks a major step in expanding disability rehabilitation infrastructure in tribal and Naxal-affected areas of the state.
The inauguration, held on Thursday, was attended by top state officials and BMVSS leadership, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive development and welfare for persons with disabilities.
CM Sai Inspects Jaipur Foot Facility and Participates in Fitting Ceremony
During the launch event, Mr. Sai personally inspected the manufacturing process of the Jaipur Foot, an innovation that has restored mobility and dignity to over 24 lakh individuals across India and 44 other countries.
In a moving gesture, the Chief Minister helped fit Jaipur Foot prosthetics on beneficiaries and walked with them, symbolizing the end of physical barriers and the start of a dignified life for many.
BMVSS media advisor Mr. Prakash Bhandari stated that the new centre will serve thousands of people in remote and conflict-affected regions, ensuring sustained access to assistive technology.
Expanding Rehabilitation in Naxal-Affected Districts
Mr. D. R. Mehta, the founder and chief patron of BMVSS, acknowledged the challenges faced in holding disability camps in disturbed regions like Dantewada, Sukma, and Narayanpur. Despite these difficulties, with strong coordination between BMVSS technicians and the district administration, 12 rehabilitation camps were successfully organized, bringing critical support to some of the most underserved populations.
This initiative demonstrates a model of public-private partnership and humanitarian outreach even in the most difficult terrains.
State Government’s Inclusive Approach to Healthcare and Rehabilitation
The opening of the permanent centre in Jagdalpur aligns with the state government’s broader agenda of inclusive development, especially for vulnerable and tribal communities. By collaborating with globally recognized organizations like BMVSS, the government is bridging the gap between healthcare access and social justice.
Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Vijay Sharma, Forest and Climate Change Minister Mr. Kedar Kashyap, Commerce Minister Mr. Lakhan Lal Devangan, and BMVSS President Mr. Satish Mehta also graced the occasion, underscoring the importance of the initiative.
The centre is expected to offer free-of-cost artificial limbs, calipers, and other aids, thereby transforming lives and enabling economic and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.
