In a bid towards making cultural events accessible to all, Svayam, a key advocate for barrier-free environment, has teamed up with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) as the Accessibility Partner for 2024 which is going to be held from 20th Nov 2024 to 28th Nov 2024 at Marriott Resort, Goa. This partnership extends to the festival’s Film Bazaar, a leading business platform for South Asian films set to run from November 20 to 24, where Svayam will bring a strong focus on inclusivity and engagement for audiences of all abilities.
For the first time, IFFI’s venues are equipped with accessibility features such as ramps, handrails, tactile pathways, allowing attendees with mobility and visual impairments to navigate more comfortably. Designated accessible parking spaces have been allocated near the venues, further supporting ease of access for individuals with physical disabilities.
As part of its role, Svayam is conducting a thorough accessibility review of the festival venues and leading training sessions for volunteers, officials, and staff, teaching respectful and inclusive interaction techniques for those with reduced mobility. In October, Svayam conducted a sensitization training session for IFFI’s social media and website teams establishing accessibility criteria to make its website accessible.
Sharing her thoughts on the partnership, Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson, Svayam, said, “Svayam is proud to partner with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting as the Accessibility Partner for the 55th IFFI and 18th Film Bazaar, following our successful collaboration with NFDC at MIFF 2024. We commend the Government of Goa, led by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, for prioritizing accessibility and inclusion. For the first time in IFFI’s history, accessibility for people with reduced mobility will take center stage, marking a historic and transformative step toward inclusivity. Cinema has the power to unite, inspire, and transcend barriers. Svayam is committed to ensuring that everyone can fully engage in this inclusive celebration of cinema and storytelling regardless of their ability.”
Mr. Taha Haaziq, Secretary, Office of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, said, “I am deeply committed to advancing accessibility across Goa, from enhancing public infrastructure to championing universal design. This year, having Svayam as the Accessibility Partner for IFFI 2024 marks a meaningful step forward in our mission. Together, we’re not only working to make this festival accessible but also setting a powerful example of inclusivity. With Svayam’s 24 years of expertise, including their work at the Mumbai International Film Festival, we’re creating an IFFI that everyone can fully enjoy and participate in, moving Goa closer to becoming an inclusive society for all.”
During the curtain raiser press conference held at New Delhi, Mr. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said, “IFFI this year is going to be an accessible festival. Svayam has agreed to be our Accessibility Partner, and we are ensuring that IFFI this time is completely inclusive for all cinephiles with accessibility features like audio descriptions, sign language interpretations and all the venues are being made physically accessible.”
Initiatives like this pave the way for a future where accessibility, inclusivity and diversity become essential features of every cultural experience.
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