International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) aims to raise awareness about the rights, well-being, and inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. This day is particularly significant because disability affects approximately 15% of the world's population or over one billion individuals. Some essential elements of IDPD include promoting a better understanding of disability issues, mobilizing support for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, and advocating for their integration in social, political, economic, and cultural spheres.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed IDPD in 1992; since then, it has been observed annually on December 3. In India, a significant portion of the population is affected by some form of disability. The Indian government has been working towards improving the lives of persons with disabilities through legislative, social, and economic measures. Some of these initiatives include the passing of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act in 2016, which expands the definition and scope of disabilities and provides for equal treatment and opportunities for persons with disabilities. The Indian government, NGOs, and private entities collaborate to create inclusive education, employment, and social support systems for this marginalized group.

On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, numerous activities and events are organized throughout India to raise awareness, celebrate the achievements of persons with disabilities, and foster a sense of inclusion and unity. These events may include seminars, conferences, cultural programs, and sporting events specially designed for persons with disabilities. The day serves as a reminder for all Indians to come together, recognize the abilities of persons with disabilities, and work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society.

Facts about International Day of Persons with Disabilities

• The theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2024 was Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future , and in 2023 was Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world.
• According to the WHO’s World Report on Disability, 15% of the world's population are living with a disability.
• Disabilities in India are broadly classified into 21 categories, including locomotor disabilities, visual impairments, hearing impairments, speech and language disabilities, intellectual disabilities, mental illnesses, and multiple disabilities.
• The unemployment rate among persons with disabilities in India is notably higher than among the general population. The government has implemented various schemes to promote employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, such as providing a 4% reservation in government jobs and offering vocational training programs.

In the News and Trending in India for International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Top things to do in India for this observance

• Volunteer at a learning disability center or an assisted living facility.
• Use the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as an opportunity to advocate for policy changes that can improve the lives of persons with disabilities. Engage with local authorities, lawmakers, and influential figures to push for inclusive policies and laws.
• Identify and support local disability organizations that work towards the empowerment and inclusion of persons with disabilities. Volunteer or contribute to their initiatives to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities.