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International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024

Introduction

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities while raising awareness about challenges faced by persons with disabilities globally. Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1992, this day underscores the global commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The theme for 2024 is “Advancing Disability-Inclusive Development: Empowerment, Equality, and Sustainability,” reflecting the need for inclusive growth and empowerment of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

For UPSC aspirants, understanding IDPD offers insights into international policies, human rights, and India’s initiatives for disability inclusion.

Background of International Day of Persons with Disabilities

  • Genesis:

    • IDPD was proclaimed in 1992 by the UNGA Resolution 47/3.
    • It aligns with the UN’s efforts to promote human rights and sustainable development.

  • Objectives:

    • Raise awareness of disability issues.
    • Promote the full participation of persons with disabilities in society.
    • Highlight the need for an inclusive and accessible environment.

  • Global Frameworks Supporting IDPD:

    • UNCRPD (2006): A legally binding international treaty promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
    • 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: Emphasizes leaving no one behind, including persons with disabilities, in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Global Disability Landscape

  • Statistics:

    • Over 1 billion people, or approximately 15% of the global population, experience some form of disability.
    • Around 80% of persons with disabilities live in developing countries.

  • Challenges Faced by Persons with Disabilities:

    • Accessibility Issues: Limited access to infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment.
    • Social Stigma: Prejudice and discrimination against persons with disabilities.
    • Economic Inequalities: Higher poverty rates and unemployment among persons with disabilities.
    • Health Disparities: Reduced access to healthcare services.

  • Impact of COVID-19:

    • Exacerbated existing inequalities, with many persons with disabilities facing increased isolation and reduced access to essential services.

IDPD 2024 Theme and Significance

  • Theme: “Advancing Disability-Inclusive Development: Empowerment, Equality, and Sustainability.”

    • Reflects the global commitment to ensuring that development initiatives are inclusive of persons with disabilities.
    • Emphasizes creating equitable opportunities and sustainable solutions.

  • Key Focus Areas:

    1. Empowerment: Enhancing the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making.
    2. Equality: Addressing inequalities in education, employment, and healthcare.
    3. Sustainability: Promoting inclusive economic growth and reducing environmental barriers.

India’s Initiatives for Persons with Disabilities

India has taken significant steps to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. Key initiatives include:

  1. Legislative Frameworks:

    • The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016:
      • Replaced the 1995 Act to align with the UNCRPD.
      • Increased the number of recognized disabilities from 7 to 21.
      • Mandates a 4% reservation in government jobs and 5% in higher education institutions.

  2. Policy Measures:

    • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan):
      • Launched in 2015 to enhance accessibility in physical infrastructure, transportation, and ICT services.
    • Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme:
      • Provides financial assistance to organizations working for persons with disabilities.

  3. Educational Inclusion:

    • Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan:
      • Promotes inclusive education by integrating children with disabilities into mainstream schools.

  4. Economic Empowerment:

    • Skill Development Initiatives:
      • Programs to enhance employability and entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities.
    • National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities: Aims to skill 25 lakh persons by 2025.

  5. Social Security:

    • Disability pensions and insurance schemes.

Role of Technology in Empowering Persons with Disabilities

  • Assistive Technologies:

    • Devices like screen readers, prosthetics, and hearing aids improve accessibility.

  • Digital Inclusion:

    • Promoting ICT tools to ensure participation in education, employment, and governance.

  • Accessible Infrastructure:

    • Use of smart technologies to design accessible public spaces and transportation.

  • Telemedicine:

    • Ensures healthcare access for persons with mobility impairments.

Challenges in Disability Inclusion in India

  • Infrastructure Gaps:

    • Many public spaces and transportation systems remain inaccessible.

  • Lack of Awareness:

    • Limited societal understanding of the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.

  • Implementation Issues:

    • Delayed enforcement of disability laws and policies.

  • Economic Barriers:

    • Limited employment opportunities and financial assistance.

International Efforts and Best Practices

  • Global Initiatives:

    • Global Disability Summit: Focuses on global commitments for disability inclusion.
    • UN Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD): Supports capacity-building initiatives.

  • Best Practices from Other Countries:

    • United States: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides comprehensive protections against discrimination.
    • Japan: Advanced use of assistive technologies and inclusive urban planning.

Way Forward

To ensure a disability-inclusive society, the following steps can be taken:

  1. Strengthening Policies:

    • Effective implementation of existing laws and programs.
    • Increased budget allocation for disability welfare.

  2. Enhancing Accessibility:

    • Expanding the scope of the Accessible India Campaign to rural areas.

  3. Promoting Inclusive Education:

    • Developing teacher training programs for inclusive teaching practices.

  4. Leveraging Technology:

    • Encouraging innovation in assistive technologies and digital tools.

  5. Public Awareness Campaigns:

    • Reducing stigma and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.

  6. Global Cooperation:

    • Learning from international best practices and collaborating with global disability rights organizations.

Relevance of IDPD for UPSC Aspirants

  • Prelims:

    • Facts about the UNCRPD, IDPD themes, and India’s disability laws.

  • Mains:

    • Topics on social justice, inclusive growth, and human rights.

  • Essay:

    • Themes on inclusivity, disability rights, and challenges of marginalized groups.

  • Ethics:

    • Case studies on accountability and equitable governance for persons with disabilities.

Practice Questions

  1. Prelims Question:

    • Which UN body proclaimed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities? a) WHO
      b) UNGA
      c) UNICEF
      d) ILO
      (Answer: b)

  2. Mains Question:

    • “Disability inclusion is key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.” Discuss the initiatives taken by India to empower persons with disabilities.

Conclusion

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 reminds us of the global responsibility to create an equitable, inclusive, and accessible society. For India, addressing challenges in disability inclusion is integral to fulfilling its constitutional mandate and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the nuances of disability rights and welfare provides a critical lens for analyzing social justice and governance issues, enabling them to contribute effectively to policymaking and administration.

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