New Delhi: In a significant move towards fostering inclusivity, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has unveiled the 'Samarth' initiative, aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities across the country. The multifaceted program encompasses a series of measures, ranging from making Hyundai's dealerships and offices disabled-friendly to the creation of specially engineered vehicles for ease of mobility.

Under the leadership of Un Soo Kim, MD & CEO of HMIL, the Samarth initiative aligns with Hyundai's global vision of 'Continue' and the mission to propel 'Progress for Humanity.' Mr. Kim emphasized that Hyundai does not merely manufacture cars but is committed to empowering India through social initiatives, with a focus on Earth, Mobility, and Hope.

As part of the Samarth initiative, Hyundai will introduce vehicles equipped with swivel seats, designed to facilitate easier ingress and egress for individuals with disabilities. These specially engineered vehicles will be detailed by the brand at a later stage. Moreover, all Hyundai dealerships and offices across India will undergo modifications to become disabled-friendly, featuring wheelchair access ramps and doors.

The initiative goes beyond physical accessibility, as Hyundai collaborates with NGOs to create a nationwide movement for the differently-abled. Partnerships with organizations like GoSports and Hyundai Motor India Foundation aim to support para-athletes, providing a robust support structure for their journey to the Paralympics.

The official launch event witnessed the unveiling of the Samarth logo by Hyundai's longstanding ambassador, Shah Rukh Khan. Speaking at the event, Khan highlighted the program's comprehensive approach, supporting both emerging and elite para-athletes in team and individual sports. The initiative aims not only to promote equity for the disabled community but also to foster a culture of innovation, offer vocational education, and positively impact the para-sports ecosystem, inspiring the nation.

Hyundai's collaboration with GoSports Foundation will initiate an exclusive program to provide holistic support to para-athletes in India. Additionally, the partnership with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled will extend support to differently-abled individuals through the provision of assistive devices. Notably, the collaboration will also contribute to the development of blind cricket as a platform to enhance the physical and social well-being of the visually impaired in India.

With the Samarth initiative, Hyundai India takes a giant stride towards creating an inclusive and aware society, redefining the automotive landscape by prioritizing the needs and capabilities of individuals with disabilities. /BI/