National Policy for Persons with Disabilities

The National Policy for Persons with Disabilities was adopted in 2006. It recognises that persons with disabilities are a valuable human resource for the country and seeks to create an environment that provides them equal opportunities, protection of their rights and full participation in society.

The policy emphasises upon the fact that a majority of persons with disabilities can lead a better quality of life if they have equal opportunities and effective access to rehabilitation measures.

The salient features of the policy are:

1. Physical rehabilitation, which includes early detection and intervention, counseling and medical interventions and provision of aids and appliances.
2. Educational rehabilitation which includes vocational training.
3. Economic rehabilitation, for a dignified life in society. It includes employment in the public as well as private sector and self-employment.
4. Development of rehabilitation professionals.
5. Creation of a barrier-free environment.
6. Provision of social security by various means like disability pension, unemployment allowance, etc.
7. Promotion of non-governmental organisations (NGOs).