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International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 is being observed on 3rd December. Learn more about the International Day of Persons With Disabilities 2024 here.
authorImageDeeksha Dixit3 Dec, 2024
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International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed every year to promote awareness about the issues faced by persons with disabilities worldwide and to advocate for their rights and well-being. This global event, also known as World Day of the Handicapped 2024 is being celebrated on December 3, 2024 .

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 will serve as a reminder to work towards an inclusive society. From addressing accessibility concerns to ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and healthcare, it will push nations to prioritize inclusivity and justice for all.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 Overview

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a special occasion celebrated globally on December 3 each year. The purpose of the day is to spread awareness about the challenges faced by people living with disabilities and promote equal rights and opportunities for everyone.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 Overview
Also Known As International Day of Disabled Persons or World Day of the Handicapped
Date 3 December 2024
Theme Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.
History Proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3 in 1992
Objective Promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities
Observed By Globally by the United Nations, NGOs, and governments
Key Activities Commemorative Events at the UN Headquarters in New York, awareness campaigns, community, and media events

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 Theme

The theme for the 2024 International Day Of Persons With Disabilities is " Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future." It highlights the crucial role that individuals with disabilities play in shaping an inclusive society. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities Theme 2024 recognizes the importance of empowering persons with disabilities to take on leadership roles, driving progress toward equality. The theme also aims to ensure that their voices are central in the decision-making processes affecting their lives.

History of International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities also known as International Disability Awareness Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 47/3 in December 1992. The day was created with the aim of promoting awareness of the rights, needs, and well-being of persons with disabilities worldwide. The roots of this day can also be traced back to the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, which was dedicated to providing equal opportunities and preventing discrimination against disabled individuals. Since its inception, the day has been observed globally to recognize the contributions and struggles of people with disabilities.

Persons with Disabilities in India

According to the Census 2011, there are around 2.68 crore persons with disabilities in the country, which makes up about 2.21% of the total population. Here are key facts on Persons with Disabilities in India based on Census 2011:
Persons with Disabilities in India
Gender 56% Male and 44% female.
Location 69% lived in rural areas, while 31% lived in urban areas.
Employment 36.34% reported as workers.
Education 54.4%  were literate.
Credit: Census of India Persons with disabilities in India face difficulties in accessing education, healthcare, jobs, and public spaces along with the social stigma, which further marginalizes them from mainstream society.

Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act

Indian government passed landmark legislation named, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 to empower persons with disabilities in India and make society more inclusive for them. This act recognizes 21 types of disabilities including locomotor disability, visual/hearing impairment, speech/language disabilities, intellectual disability, etc. Some of the key provisions of the RPwD Act are:
  • Benchmark Disabilities: The Act defines persons with benchmark disabilities as those who have at least 40% disability in any of the recognized categories.
  • Accessibility: Public buildings (both government and private) must be made accessible to PwDs within a specified time frame.
  • Education: The Act emphasizes inclusive education and mandates that children between the ages of 6 to 18 years with disabilities have the right to free and compulsory education. Further, there is a provision for 5% reservation in higher education.
  • Employment: The Act mandates 4% reservation in government jobs for persons with benchmark disabilities, promoting better inclusion in the workforce.
  • National and State Commissions: The Act establishes National and State Disability Commissions for safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities.
  • Funds for Persons with Disabilities : The Act provides for the creation of National and State Funds to financially support PwDs.
  • Penalties : The RPwD Act imposes penalties for violations, including up to six months imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000, with higher penalties for repeat offenders.
The RPwD Act aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), ensuring that India meets global standards for disability rights.
UPSC Mains PYQs on (RPwD) Act: UPSC Mains 2022: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment. (150 words, 10 Marks) UPSC Mains 2017 : Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss. (150 words, 10 marks)

Government Schemes for Disabled Persons in India

The Indian government has introduced several schemes to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities. Some of the key initiatives include:
  • Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS): This scheme provides financial assistance to NGOs for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
  • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan): A nationwide campaign launched to create universal accessibility for persons with disabilities in public spaces, transport, and government buildings.
  • Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP Scheme): This scheme helps persons with disabilities by providing financial assistance to purchase or fit aids and appliances such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and prosthetics, enabling greater mobility and independence.
  • National Fellowship for Students with Disabilities: A scholarship program designed to support students with disabilities pursuing higher education by providing financial assistance.
Many more such initiatives are being currently implemented by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) , which operates under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 Significance

The significance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 lies in its role in bringing global attention to the pressing issues faced by persons with disabilities. It serves as a reminder of the need to build societies that are inclusive and equitable. By highlighting the importance of accessibility, legal rights, and equal opportunities, this day plays an important role in encouraging governments, organizations, and individuals to take action. Are you preparing for UPSC exams and looking to strengthen your understanding of topics like disability rights and social justice? Explore Physics Wallah UPSC Courses today!
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International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 FAQs

When is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024?

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 is being observed on December 3, 2024.

What is the purpose of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities?

The day promotes awareness about the rights and challenges of persons with disabilities and advocates for inclusivity.

What is the theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024?

The 2024 theme is ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future’.

How does India support persons with disabilities?

India supports PwDs through the RPwD Act, welfare schemes like the Accessible India Campaign, and reservation policies.

What is the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act?

The RPwD Act, 2016, is legislation aimed at protecting and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities in India.
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