Svayam Founder honoured in Mumbai for championing inclusive infrastructure, accessible sports, and barrier-free travel across India
New Delhi, IndiaSminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson of accessibility advocacy organisation Svayam and Managing Director of Jindal SAW Ltd., has been named among Fortune India’s Most Powerful Women 2025. The recognition was conferred by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari during a recent felicitation ceremony in Mumbai, celebrating Ms. Jindal’s steadfast commitment to advancing accessibility across India’s public spaces, transport hubs, tourism destinations, and sporting arenas.
“Recognition like this reminds us that mobility is a right, not a privilege. Accessibility enables participation, builds confidence, and creates opportunities for people facing mobility challenges. As India plans its future, we must ensure our spaces grow with us, allowing everyone to contribute fully. This honour belongs to every individual and organisation working to make inclusion real,” said Sminu Jindal.
A life-altering car crash at age eleven awakened Ms. Jindal to the harsh realities of inaccessible infrastructure. This personal experience inspired the creation of Svayam in 2000, initially as an information platform on accessibility rights, which has since evolved into a leading organisation driving systemic change.
Svayam’s landmark achievements include partnering with the Archaeological Survey of India to make the Qutub Minar the country’s first accessible UNESCO World Heritage site, upgrading facilities at airports and transport terminals, and working with various stakeholders to redesign public spaces for improved mobility.
In the realm of sports, Svayam’s efforts have enabled para-athletes across major competitions. Collaborating with the Paralympic Committee of India, the organisation supported the Indian contingent during the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics by ensuring barrier-free access across venues and accommodations. Svayam has also contributed significantly to the Khelo India Para Games and the Indian Open Para-Athletic International Championship, providing logistical and infrastructural support.
In cricket, Svayam’s collaboration with the Disability Cricket Council of India (DCCI) empowered India’s physically disabled cricket team, culminating in their 2025 victory at the Physically Disabled Champions Trophy and a historic debut at Lord’s — a milestone that underscores the growing recognition of disability sports and inspires young players nationwide.
At Jindal SAW Ltd., Ms. Jindal has integrated inclusive practices, proving that industry growth can align with universal design principles to create meaningful opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Looking ahead, Svayam is set to host India’s first National Summit on Accessible Sports and Tourism later this year, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and advocates to develop actionable frameworks that embed inclusion at the heart of planning. As India’s sporting and tourism sectors expand, Svayam remains dedicated to creating a society where all people, regardless of mobility, can travel, participate, and shape their futures without barriers.
About Svayam
Founded in 2000 by philanthropist and business leader Sminu Jindal, Svayam is a not-for-profit initiative of the Sminu Jindal Charitable Trust, committed to reforming infrastructure and transportation for people with reduced mobility. Svayam works tirelessly to build a barrier-free world, empowering individuals to navigate public spaces independently and confidently.
