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The Central government has demonstrated its steadfast commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable society for persons with disabilities (PwDs) by signing 72 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with startups and organizations this year. These agreements span multiple disability sectors, showcasing an innovative and collaborative approach, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced on Monday.
Transformative Projects Worth Over ₹100 Crore
In 2024, projects worth over ₹100 crore were inaugurated to enhance rehabilitation facilities and promote inclusivity for PwDs. A major milestone was the unveiling of the newly constructed Service Block at the National Institute of Mental Health and Rehabilitation (NIMHR), a step forward in improving mental health services for individuals with disabilities.
“The transformative journey of the ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’ marks nine years of fostering accessibility and inclusivity in India. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this pioneering initiative has been instrumental in empowering Divyangjan, enabling them to lead lives of dignity, equality, and opportunity,” the ministry stated.
Simplified Access with Helpline 14456
A user-friendly short-code helpline number, 14456, was launched this year, streamlining access to assistance for PwDs. This centralized helpline simplifies support systems, ensuring efficient service delivery and addressing the needs of persons with disabilities across the country.
Enhancing Accessibility for Visual Disabilities
A collaboration with the National Association for the Blind resulted in making approximately 10,000 pages of documents, including government schemes and legal reliefs, accessible to persons with visual disabilities. Additionally, the Indian Sign Language (ISL) dictionary was expanded with 2,500 new terms across subjects like mathematics, science, sports, and infrastructure, and is now available in 10 regional languages to ensure broader linguistic reach.
Training and Rehabilitation Initiatives
To address employability challenges, the government conducted multiple Training of Trainers (ToT) programs focused on developing skills for PwDs. Furthermore, 35 new district disability rehabilitation centers (DDRCs) were established nationwide, significantly enhancing access to critical rehabilitation services.
Celebration of Diversity at Rashtrapati Bhawan
In a historic event held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, over 10,000 Divyangjan and their escorts gathered to celebrate diversity and unity. Key initiatives launched at the event included the ‘India Neurodiversity Platform’ and a handbook on disability-sensitive language. These initiatives aim to promote inclusivity and educate stakeholders on respectful and appropriate communication with PwDs.
A Foundation for Future Progress
The initiatives and projects launched in 2024 underscore the government’s commitment to empowering PwDs and fostering an inclusive society. By addressing accessibility, education, employment, and social integration, these efforts lay a robust foundation for continued progress in the years to come.
