International Day of Disabled Persons

The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons on 3 December seeks to promote understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also aims to increase awareness of the benefits that arise from the full integration of persons with disabilities in political, social, economic, and cultural life.

The theme of the Day reflects the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights and participation in society by persons with disabilities, as established by the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982.

Disability in India: Facts and Changing Perspectives

According to Census 2001, India has approximately 2.19 crore persons with disabilities, constituting 2.13 percent of the total population. These include individuals with visual, hearing, speech, locomotor, and mental disabilities.

Nearly 75 percent of persons with disabilities reside in rural areas. While 49 percent are literate, only 34 percent are employed. Over the years, there has been a significant shift in approach — from a primarily medical model of rehabilitation to a broader social rehabilitation model, emphasizing inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment.

National Initiatives for Empowerment

To promote the empowerment of persons with disabilities, the Government of India adopted the “National Policy for Persons with Disabilities” in February 2006. The policy advocates equal opportunities, protection of rights, and full participation in all spheres of life.

An extensive institutional framework supports rehabilitation and empowerment efforts. Seven national institutes specializing in various disabilities work toward developing trained rehabilitation professionals, providing specialized services, and conducting research and innovation in service delivery models.

The Constitution of India guarantees equality, freedom, justice, and dignity to all citizens and implicitly mandates an inclusive society that embraces persons with disabilities.

Global Commitment

India reaffirmed its commitment to disability rights by signing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 30 March 2007 — the very day the Convention was opened for signature.

The Convention aims to promote, protect, and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by persons with disabilities, while respecting their inherent dignity. It is a human rights instrument with a strong social development dimension, identifying areas requiring adaptation and reinforcing protection of rights.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

To mark this important observance, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp on the International Day of Disabled Persons. The stamp pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of persons with disabilities and highlights the nation’s commitment to inclusion and equality.

Significantly, for the first time, the denomination of the stamp is inscribed in Braille script. The First Day Cover also carries inscriptions in Braille, symbolizing accessibility and reinforcing the message of equal participation and dignity for all.