The ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has recently updated the Harmonised Guidelines and Space Standards for Universal Accessibility in India-2021. The revised guidelines now fall under the RPwD (Amendment) Rules, 2023. These guidelines were initially created to establish a barrier-free environment for persons with disabilities and the elderly. However, under the new amendments, the emphasis is now on universal accessibility.
What are the Harmonised Guidelines and Space Standards for Universal Accessibility in India-2021?
These guidelines can be seen as a set of rules that aims to make the physical environment, transportation, information, and communication, among other services, easily accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India. They are not only for the benefit of disabled persons but also serve as a guide for those involved in planning projects ranging from the construction of government buildings to city master planning.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs holds the responsibility for implementing these guidelines.
Legislative Framework Related to PwDs in India
In 2007, India ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Almost a decade later, in December 2016, the country passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, which was put into effect the following year. This act recognizes 21 types of disabilities.
Section 40 of the RPwD Act 2016 allows the Central Government, in consultation with the Chief Commissioner (for PwDs), to establish rules related to persons with disabilities. These rules dictate the standards of accessibility for the physical environment, transportation, and information and communication technologies.
Several initiatives have been launched under this Act, including “Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan” or the Accessible India Campaign.
Other Initiatives for PwDs
Apart from “Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan,” India has also rolled out several other measures aimed at providing support and improving accessibility for persons with disabilities. These initiatives include the Unique Disability Identification Portal, DeenDayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme, and Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/fitting of Aids and Appliances.
There’s also a National Fellowship for Students with Disabilities, which aims to provide educational opportunities for disabled students.
Benefits Under the Law for PwDs
India is home to lakhs of persons with disabilities. Various benefits have been instituted under the law to improve their quality of life. These include free schooling until the age of 18 years in government-run schools, preferential allotment of land for setting up businesses, and mandatory ramps in public buildings.
Evaluation of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, is a significant step toward ensuring the empowerment and inclusion of its intended beneficiaries into society. However, its effectiveness needs ongoing assessment and review to ensure it meets the evolving needs of India’s disabled population.