(General Studies II – Governance Section – Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation. Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections of the population by the Centre and States and the Performance of these Schemes; Mechanisms, Laws, Institutions and Bodies constituted for the Protection and Betterment of these Vulnerable Sections.)
- The marginalization of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India reflects deep-rooted societal biases and structural inadequacies.
- Despite legislative mandates, PwDs continue to struggle for dignity, proper representation, and equal opportunities in education and employment.
- The 2023 Nifty 50 report highlights that only a handful of companies employ more than 1% of PwDs, underlining the lack of diversity in workplaces.
Issues which Hinder –
- Lack of Accessible Infrastructure: Less than 40% of school buildings have ramps, and only 17% have accessible restrooms, making it difficult for PwDs to access education. This infrastructural inadequacy limits their ability to participate fully in society.
- Underrepresentation in Employment: The 2023 Nifty 50 report reveals that only five companies have more than 1% of PwDs on their rolls, with four of these being public sector companies. This stark underrepresentation indicates a lack of commitment to diversity and inclusion in the private sector.
- Inadequate Implementation of Laws: Despite the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which provides for reservation in government jobs and incentives in non-government jobs, there is a clear lack of implementation, resulting in limited employment opportunities for PwDs.
- Social Stigma and Discrimination: PwDs face societal attitudes that portray them as burdens or objects of pity, which erodes their identity and dignity. This stigma further marginalizes them and hinders their social and economic integration.
- Inadequate Policy Framework: The lack of robust diversity policies in workplaces and educational institutions perpetuates the exclusion of PwDs. Without a comprehensive policy framework, efforts to include PwDs remain fragmented and ineffective.
- Global Comparisons: Countries like Brazil and Japan have implemented quota systems and incentive mechanisms to ensure the inclusion of PwDs in the workforce. India’s failure to adopt similar models has left PwDs without adequate representation in employment.
What Needs to be Done?
- Infrastructure Development: Educational institutions must prioritize creating accessible infrastructure, such as ramps, accessible restrooms, and assistive technologies, to enable PwDs to fully participate in education.
- Workplace Inclusion: Both public and private sectors should implement diversity policies that ensure the representation of PwDs in the workforce. Quota systems, similar to those in Brazil, can be introduced to mandate the employment of PwDs.
- Policy Implementation: The effective implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, is crucial. States should develop compliance mechanisms to ensure that employers adhere to reservation policies and provide equal opportunities for PwDs.
- Social Awareness Campaigns: To combat social stigma, awareness campaigns should be launched to educate the public about the capabilities and rights of PwDs. These campaigns should aim to shift societal attitudes from pity to empowerment.
- Incentive Mechanisms: The government can introduce incentive mechanisms for employers who actively include PwDs in their workforce. This can include tax breaks, subsidies, and recognition awards to encourage more companies to hire PwDs.
- Collaboration with Global Models: India can learn from global models, such as Japan’s subsidiary system and Brazil’s quota system, to create a more inclusive environment for PwDs. Collaboration with international organizations can also help in adopting best practices.
| Government Measures • Accessible India Campaign: Launched to create a barrier-free environment for PwDs by making public spaces and transportation accessible. • Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan: Aims to make government buildings accessible and inclusive for PwDs. • Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme: Provides financial assistance to organizations working for the rehabilitation of PwDs. |
The exclusion of PwDs from mainstream society is not just a failure of policy but a reflection of societal indifference. Investing in PwDs is not merely a matter of compliance but a moral imperative. By creating accessible infrastructure, enforcing inclusive policies, and challenging societal norms, India can unlock the potential of millions of PwDs.
| Abhishek Anicca in his book, The Grammar of My Body, writes, “My friends say disabled people can be negative. I agree. We are so negative that sometimes the able-bodied mind never reaches us. That distance is too far… It is thus those who are creating the distance [who] should bridge the gap.” |
