Omitting disability-related information from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) in India highlights the need for accurate representation of disabilities and the implications of overlooking invisible disabilities.
Incomplete Recognition of Disabilities
Lack of Comprehensive Data: The government's decision to exclude disability-related questions from NFHS-6 disregards the sizable population of persons with disabilities i.e. around 68 crore people according to the 2011 Census.
Under-representation of Disabilities: The Census data accounts for only seven defined categories of disabilities, excluding several categories recognized by the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016(RPWDA).
Neglect of "Invisible Disabilities": The focus on visible disabilities overlooks "invisible disabilities," including mental health issues, leading to inadequate representation and understanding.
Importance of Comprehensive Data and Legal Mandates
Significance of Data Collection: Comprehensive data collection is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and complying with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Government Responsibilities: Sections 25, 27, and 28 of RPWDA mandate the government to promote research, formulate schemes, and conduct surveys to empower and safeguard persons with disabilities.
NITI Aayog's Vision and Gap in Policy: Its 'Strategy for New India @ 75' acknowledges the lack of detailed data for formulating policies for persons with disabilities, especially those with invisible disabilities.
Way Forward:
Missed Opportunity: The exclusion of disability-related questions from NFHS-6 is a missed chance to sensitize a broad audience and promote inclusivity, considering the 2030 SDG deadline of "Leaving no one behind."
Judicial Scrutiny and Oversight: The decision's underestimation of India's birth rate and contravention of RPWDA's provisions are under judicial review, reflecting the tendency to oversimplify disability issues.
Challenges for Progress: Omitting disability questions raises concerns about relegating disability rights to a secondary status, hindering the goal of inclusive progress.