International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on December 3, celebrates the resilience, contributions, and leadership of persons with disabilities (PwDs) worldwide. 

What is IDPD?

• The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on December 3, celebrates the resilience, contributions, and leadership of persons with disabilities (PwDs)
• This day is a reminder of the global commitment to foster inclusivity, advocate for the rights of PwDs, and create equitable opportunities for all.
• The theme for this year is: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.”
• History of IDPD:
• The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992 under resolution 47/3.
• The aim was to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and increase awareness of their challenges in various aspects of life (political, social, economic, and cultural).
• The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted in 2006, further advanced the rights of PwDs in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Initiatives by the Indian Government:

India has implemented several policies and initiatives to empower and include PwDs:

• Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD): Created in 2012 under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this department focuses on the welfare of PwDs. Renamed in 2014, it coordinates efforts between various ministries, state governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) - 2015: It was launched to achieve universal accessibility across India, focusing on:
  • Built Environment Accessibility (e.g., public spaces).
  • Transportation Accessibility for independent mobility.
  • Information and Communication
  • Sign Language Access through interpreter training.
• Deendayal Divyangjan Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) provides grants to NGOs for projects supporting PwDs’ rehabilitation and empowerment, helping them reach their optimal physical, sensory, and intellectual levels.
• District Disability Rehabilitation Centres (DDRC) provide early identification of disabilities, raise awareness, supply assistive devices, and offer self-employment loans. They also promote a barrier-free environment.
• Assistance to Persons with Disabilities for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances (ADIP) Scheme: It grants agencies the funds needed to help PwDs buy modern aids and appliances to aid their rehabilitation and enhance economic potential.
• Schemes for Implementation of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 (SIPDA): It is a comprehensive scheme supporting:
  • Creation of Barrier-Free Environments.
  • Accessible India Campaign.
  • Skill Development for PwDs.
  • Issuing Unique Disability Identification (UDID)
  • Awareness Generation and training for stakeholders.
  • Research and Development for suitable aids.
• Divya Kala Mela is a national-level fair celebrating Divyangjan artisans. It focuses on showcasing the artistic contributions of PwDs, highlighting their skills and creating a platform for them to showcase their work.
• PM-DAKSH Yojana: It is a skill development platform for PwDs, connecting them to training organizations and employers. The scheme consists of two modules:
  • Divyangjan Kaushal Vikas: Skill training for PwDs.
  • Divyangjan Rozgar Setu: Connecting PwDs with employment opportunities.