Inclusion of people with disability- India, disability inclusion and the power of ‘by’

Source: The post on Inclusion of people with disability has been created on the article “India, disability inclusion and the power of ‘by’” published in The Hindu on 4th December 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 2- governance- mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections

News: The article discusses the challenges faced by people with disabilities. It highlights their struggles in society and work, especially in rural areas. It stresses the importance of including them in all areas of development for social justice and economic growth.

Who are the people with disabilities (PWD)?

As per the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) “Persons with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”.

For more information read here

What is the current status PWD in India?

In India, there were around 26.8 million persons with disabilities, constituting 2.21% of India’s total population (2011 Census).

There were 14.9 million men (2.41% of men) and 11.9 million women (2.01% of women) with disabilities. 69% (18 million) of persons with disabilities reside in rural areas.

Disabilities are highest in the age group 10-19 years (46.2 lakh people).

What are the challenges in the inclusion of PWD?

Global Prevalence: 1.3 billion people globally have disabilities, with 80% in developing countries and 70% in rural areas.

Economic Exclusion: They often face poverty, lack access to education and limited job opportunities. Inclusion could boost global GDP by 3-7% (asper ILO study).

Social Perception: They are frequently seen as charity cases, not as capable individuals.

Inadequate Government Schemes: Some developmental schemes exclude the disabled, as seen in India where awareness and last-mile connectivity are lacking, especially in rural areas.

What steps have been taken by the government for the inclusion of persons with disabilities?

UN Convention Advocacy: Advocating for changing attitudes and perceptions as per the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Government Schemes in India: Implementation of schemes and the unique ID for persons with disabilities (UDID) under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016).

SPARK Project: The International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), in collaboration with Maharashtra’s Women’s Development Corporation, initiated the Sparking Disability Inclusive Rural Transformation (SPARK) project. It trains Disability Inclusion Facilitators to integrate women with disabilities into self-help groups, thereby promoting their social and economic development.

For more information on Provision made for PWD in India read here

What should be done to support people with disabilities?

Inclusion in Economic Development: Recognize and include persons with disabilities in economic activities, as their inclusion could boost global GDP by 3-7%.

Promote ‘By’ vs ‘For’ Approach: Shift focus to actions performed by persons with disabilities, rather than just for them, ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes.

Private Sector Engagement: Encourage the private sector to hire and retain workers with disabilities, breaking down employment barriers and stereotypes.

Replicate Successful Projects: Expand initiatives like the SPARK project, which trains Disability Inclusion Facilitators and integrates women with disabilities into self-help groups for social and economic development.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the effectiveness of current government initiatives and policies in India for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in socio-economic development.