India is home to over 2.68 crore persons with disabilities. These individuals often face multifaceted challenges, spanning physical, financial, and psychological barriers, hindering their pursuit of a life with dignity. Recognizing the need for comprehensive interventions, India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken significant steps towards the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
PM Modi's unwavering commitment to building an accessible India for Divyangjans is evident in both words and actions. In his radio show Mann Ki Baat, PM Narendra Modi urged the nation to refer to disabled people as "Divyangjan" instead of handicapped, showcasing his special concern for the disabled community. He has consistently emphasized the goal of building an accessible India for Divyangjans. Modi government has amended and introduced policies and launched various schemes to ensure equal opportunities and protection of their rights. His constant support for disabled athletes has particularly been notable, including improved practice facilities and increased government support. Additionally, PM Modi consistently meets and encourages para-athletes before and after competitions, which exemplifies his personal commitment toward Divyangjans.
In the last decade, many affirmative steps have been taken to ensure greater representation and opportunities for Divyangjans in various sectors. A pivotal milestone in this journey was the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. This legislation significantly expanded the categories of specified disabilities from 7 to 21, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. Section 34 of the RPwD Act increased reservation for Divyangjans in government jobs from 3% to 4% and in higher educational institutions from 3% to 5%, fostering inclusive employment and education. The Unique Disability Identification (UDID) Project has complemented these efforts, creating a national database and issuing unique identity cards to over one crore Divyangjans, promoting transparency in benefit delivery.
The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan has significantly enhanced accessibility in government buildings, transport systems, and websites. 1,100 Central Government buildings and 611 State/UT Government-owned buildings have been retrofitted for better accessibility. 71% of government and government-aided schools have been made barrier-free with ramps, handrails, and accessible toilets. Disabled-friendly facilities have been implemented at most metro stations, railway stations and airports. Low-floor buses with designs facilitating easy boarding for disabled individuals have been introduced in various cities to address challenges in public transportation for the Divyangjans.
The Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) channels grant-in-aid to non-governmental organizations for projects dedicated to Divyangjan rehabilitation, benefiting over 2.73 lakh individuals. The National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities, launched in March 2015, has trained 1.57 lakh Divyangjan students since 2016, fostering self-reliance and integration.
Under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY), free assistive devices are provided to senior citizens with age-related disabilities in the Below Poverty Line category, benefitting over 5.2 lakh individuals.
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre, established in 2015, has trained over 1593 sign language interpreters and launched a comprehensive Indian Sign Language dictionary for the benefit of the Divyangjans. Additionally, scholarships worth over Rs. 633 Crore have been disbursed to more than 2 lakh Divyangjan students directly into their bank accounts to promote education and skill development among them.
The Divya Kala Mela, initiated in 2022, provides a platform for marketing and showcasing the products and skills of persons with disabilities. This innovative initiative not only promotes economic empowerment but also changes societal perceptions. Additionally, over 13 thousand Samajik Adhikarita Shivirs across the country have led to the free distribution of assistive devices, cochlear implant surgeries, and motorized tricycles, benefitting thousands of Divyangjans.
In a groundbreaking move, the government has decided to establish the University of Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Sciences in Kamrup District, Assam. This university aims to be a hub for research, education, and training in the field of disability studies. In another momentous step, PM Modi inaugurated the 'Atal Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports' in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India's first high-tech sports training centre for Divyangjans. This facility provides specialized training to Divyangjan athletes, further emphasizing the commitment to empowering Divyangjans.
In conclusion, the empowerment of Divyangjans in India has witnessed significant strides since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power in 2014, recognizing their individual potential, strength and achievements while encouraging a collective effort to mainstream them in society. From legal frameworks ensuring rights and reservations to practical interventions like assistive devices, skill development, and accessible infrastructure, the Modi government's multifaceted approach signifies a commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable society where no one is left behind, an approach encapsulated in Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas.
