India today stands at a crucial turning point of rapid economic growth, technological innovation, and social transformation. The country is not only succeeding in enhancing its economic strength but is also making several new efforts in social welfare. Yet, the harsh reality remains that the true measure of a nation’s progress is not determined by its GDP, manufacturing capacity, or digital infrastructure alone, but by how effectively it ensures security, dignity, and equal opportunities for its most vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens.

In this context, persons with disabilities (PwDs) emerge as one of the most important yet neglected segments of the nation’s collective human capital. India is home to between 80 and 100 million persons with disabilities — a figure larger than the total population of many countries — yet this vast group still struggles to achieve full social, economic, and developmental participation. Persons with disabilities are not merely beneficiaries of assistance; they are active citizens, skilled human resources, and integral participants in the nation-building process. Therefore, the welfare and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities must occupy a central position in India’s public policy framework.

Current Challenges

However, the present scenario is quite the opposite. Persons with disabilities continue to face numerous barriers in basic areas such as education, health, employment, accessibility, and social security. These barriers are not merely policy gaps but indicators of deep structural challenges, underscoring the need for a clear vision, a long-term strategy, and rigorous implementation in this sector.

Education: The Foundation of Empowerment

Education is the most crucial foundation of disability welfare. It shapes the future of every child and serves as the key instrument that opens the door to opportunity, self-confidence, and social acceptance. Yet inclusion in India’s education system remains an incomplete promise. A large number of schools still lack basic facilities such as wheelchair-friendly ramps, tactile paths, Braille signage, accessible toilets, and lifts. For millions of children with disabilities, simply attending school becomes a daily struggle.

Pedagogically, the system is also fraught with challenges — a shortage of special educators, a lack of sign-language instructors, and only nominal........

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