What are the key initiatives taken by the Indian government for the empowerment of persons with disabilities
The President of India presents National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the year 2023.
The Indian government has undertaken various key initiatives for the empowerment of persons with disabilities. Some of these include:
- Accessible India Campaign: Launched in 2015, this flagship program aims to make public infrastructure and transportation accessible for persons with disabilities by providing accessibility features such as ramps, accessible toilets, and public transport with provisions for wheelchair users.
- Accessible Education: The government is committed to inclusive education and has implemented various schemes to provide equal educational opportunities to students with disabilities. This includes the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan program, which ensures free education for all children with disabilities up to the age of 18.
- Disability Act Amendments: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, was passed to strengthen the rights and entitlements of persons with disabilities. It expands the definition of disabilities, mandates accessibility in all public buildings, and provides for reservation in employment and education.
- Financial Assistance: The government provides various financial assistance schemes for persons with disabilities, including scholarships for higher education, subsidies for assistive devices, and financial incentives for employment under the Accessible India Campaign.
- National Awards: The President of India presents National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities annually to recognize and honor individuals, organizations, and employers who have made significant contributions towards the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
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