Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Right to persons with disabilities, at the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council (24 February -4 April 2025) delivered by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., Counsellor & Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, Geneva, on 10 March 2025

Mr. President,

1. We take note of the Report of the Special Rapporteur, with special focus on women and girls with disabilities.

2. India strongly believes that individuals with disabilities are a valuable contributor to our nation’s development, and this is enabled through provision of equal opportunities and accessible rehabilitation measures.

3. As a Party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, India has incorporated the provisions of the Convention into its relevant domestic laws.

4. Our Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 mandates, among other things, that the Government and local authorities take measures to ensure that women and children with disabilities enjoy their rights equally with others; provide support to women with disabilities for livelihood and child-rearing; and ensure sexual and reproductive healthcare, especially for women with disabilities. The Act also provides for a five percent reservation in the allotment of agricultural land and housing in relevant schemes and development programs, as well as in all poverty alleviation initiatives, with appropriate priority given to women with benchmark disabilities.

Mr. President,

5. India reiterates its steadfast commitment to building an inclusive society that provides equal opportunities for the growth and development of individuals with disabilities, enabling them to lead productive, secure, and dignified lives.

I thank you.