The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, convened a core group meeting in hybrid mode today, focusing on the theme “Recognizing Progressive Disabilities – Adopting a Holistic Approach to Disability Rights.” The event was chaired by NHRC India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian, and featured key stakeholders including government officials, domain experts, medical professionals, and representatives from organizations supporting persons with disabilities (PwDs).

Justice Ramasubramanian emphasized the importance of improving disability-related laws, policies, and their implementation. He suggested that all stakeholders collaborate to prioritize and clearly categorize necessary interventions for the effective development of disability laws, which require Parliamentary, NHRC, and judicial action. He further remarked that it took three decades for the global community to adopt a human rights-based approach to disability, and India has made significant strides with acts such as the 1987 Mental Healthcare Act and the 2016 Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.

The meeting highlighted several pressing issues faced by PwDs, with a focus on improving accessibility, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Among the key suggestions made during the discussions were:

1. Collaboration with the Private Sector: It was emphasized that more efforts should be made to encourage partnerships between the public and private sectors to provide quality employment opportunities for PwDs.
2. Revisiting the 40% Disability Benchmark: Experts called for a reassessment of the current 40% benchmark for disability certification, suggesting it limits access to healthcare services and benefits for many PwDs who do not meet the threshold.
3. Healthcare and Rehabilitation Access: Participants urged for the creation of adequate healthcare and rehabilitation provisions, especially for individuals with high support needs. This would reduce the burden on caregivers and ensure that PwDs receive necessary support.
4. Assistive Technology and Inclusive Health Insurance: The need for clear definitions of progressive disabilities and the promotion of assistive technologies was discussed, alongside a call for more inclusive health insurance policies to make healthcare more accessible to PwDs.
5. Awareness and Training: The Commission stressed the need for increased training for doctors, community-based workers, and ASHA workers to ensure PwDs receive the care they deserve. Additionally, awareness campaigns addressing workplace discrimination and the rights of PwDs were seen as crucial for social integration.
6. Financial Accessibility and Medical Expense Reduction: Another important discussion point was the need for financial accessibility, including reducing the cost of medical expenses and enhancing local production of medicines to make treatments more cost-effective.

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Shri Rajesh Aggrawal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, highlighted that the 2011 Census identified 2.2% of India’s population as PwDs. However, he noted that underreporting, particularly among the elderly, continues to be an issue. He also emphasized the importance of improving accessibility in both physical spaces and digital platforms, where India still lags behind European nations in terms of infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with the promise to continue refining and expanding upon the suggestions made, with the goal of developing a comprehensive action plan that ensures the protection of the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.

The NHRC will further engage with stakeholders to finalize its recommendations, aiming to promote an inclusive, accessible, and equitable environment for PwDs in India.

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