High Commission of India
Suva

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Inauguration of Jaipur Foot Camp in Fiji to bring mobility and renewed hope

SUVA, FIJI — 12 October 2026 —   The High Commission of India in Suva, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services of the Government of the Republic of Fiji and Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) of Jaipur, Rajasthan, is organizing a Jaipur Foot Camp to fit artificial limbs for over 650 amputees in Fiji. The camp is being held across three locations—Suva, Nadi, and Labasa—from October 6 to November 26, 2026, at the request of the Government of the Republic of Fiji. The official inauguration of the camp took place today at Twomey Hospital, Tamavua.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Minister for Health and Medical Services of Fiji, Hon. Dr. Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, alongside the President of BMVSS, Amb. Satish Mehta and the High Commissioner of India to Fiji H.E. Suneet Mehta. Permanent Secretary, Government officials, staff of Twomey Hospital, family members of the beneficiaries, members of the Indian diaspora and officials of the High Commission also attended the occasion.

In his address, Ambassador Satish Mehta elaborated on the functioning of the Jaipur Foot programme and its transformative impact in empowering individuals with disabilities worldwide. Aligning with the Prime Minister's vision guided by the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family), BMVSS has been conducting artificial limb fitment camps across the globe. He shared that, to date, BMVSS has organized international Jaipur Foot camps in 29 countries in collaboration with Government of India and more than  2.5 million people globally got benefitted.

Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner, H.E. Suneet Mehta expressed gratitude to the Minister of Health & Medical Services of Fiji, noting that his presence underscored the importance it attaches to impactful healthcare initiatives, as well as fulfilling the commitments made during visit of Hon’ble Prime Minister of Fiji to India last year. He also thanked Ambassador Satish Mehta and the entire BMVSS team for bringing their world-renowned expertise to Fiji, alongside Dr. Pratima Gajraj, Twomey Hospital, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and all medical professionals and officials working behind the scenes. Highlighting the scale and impact of the humanitarian effort, the High Commissioner shared that the camp which has been underway since 6 October is expected to benefit around 650 amputees across Suva, Labasa, and Nadi.

Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Ms. Veniana Deseisenacagi, and Mr. Fanioga Falasa were the three beneficiaries who shared their personal testimonials. They recounted how their physical limitations had long impacted their daily lives and livelihoods, and expressed deep gratitude for the gift of mobility, which has restored their sense of dignity, independence, and hope for the future.

During the event, the Minister for Health and Medical Services of Fiji, Hon. Dr. Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, thanked Indian Government and BMVSS for organizing the humanitarian camp, lauding its steadfast commitment to the welfare of the people of Fiji and its ongoing partnership with the country.

During the programme, the Minister spent time interacting directly with beneficiaries who have already received their assistive devices. The Minister also handed over prosthetic limbs to three persons with disabilities namely Mr. Satish Singh, Mr. Hemant Kumar, and Mr. Dewan Prasad.

Following the formal inauguration, the Minister of Health & Medical Services undertook a detailed walkthrough of the worksite and fitting camp. He closely inspected the technical processes involved in crafting and customizing the Jaipur Foot, commending the dedication of the prosthetists, technicians, and volunteers working tirelessly to restore mobility to beneficiaries.

The Jaipur Foot Camp stands as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and robust development partnership between India and Fiji, reinforcing a shared commitment to grassroots humanitarian welfare and inclusive human-centric progress.

The photographs of the event and the speech of the High Commissioner is attached herewith.