CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: In a landmark achievement for India, Suvarna Raj, a celebrated para-athlete and a passionate disability rights activist, has won the 2024 United Nations SDG Action Award at the prestigious ceremony held at the TH Roma Carpegna Palace, Rome. Selected from a competitive pool of 5,500 applicants representing 190 countries, Suvarna has been honored as a Changemaker Finalist for her relentless work in championing accessibility, empowerment, and social inclusion for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India.
The United Nations SDG Action Awards recognize individuals and organizations worldwide who are driving transformative action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year, the awards witnessed the participation of distinguished individuals, UN leaders, government officials, and global change-makers. Suvarna’s recognition as the first disabled woman from India to receive this award is a historic moment, underscoring the nation’s progress towards inclusivity and empowerment.
The award ceremony was broadcast live, celebrating Suvarna Raj’s work as a catalyst for change. As a Changemaker Finalist, Suvarna’s achievements have not only highlighted the barriers faced by PwDs in India but also demonstrated the power of resilience, advocacy, and innovation in transforming lives and communities. Suvarna’s contributions align closely with SDG Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), making her a symbol of hope and progress for the millions of persons with disabilities worldwide.
About Suvarna Raj
Suvarna Raj is an international para-athlete, disability rights activist, and social worker who has been working tirelessly for the empowerment and inclusion of persons with disabilities in India. As a wheelchair user, Suvarna has faced numerous obstacles in her own life, which have fueled her mission to create a more accessible society. She has conducted over 500 accessibility audits across public and private sectors under the Accessible India Campaign, improving facilities and accessibility in transportation, healthcare, and infrastructure.
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