Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Right to persons with disabilities, at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council (26 February -5 April 2024) delivered by Mr. K.S. Mohammed Hussain, First Secretary (Legal), Permanent Mission of India, Geneva, on 11 March 2024
Mr. President,
- We take note of the Report of the Special Rapporteur and acknowledge the work of the mandate during the 10 years since its creation in 2014.
- India strongly believes that individuals with disabilities are a valuable asset to our nation, and their quality of life can significantly improve through equal opportunities and accessible rehabilitation measures. To address this, the Government of India developed the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities in 2006, and a separate Department of Disability Affairs was established in 2012.
- As a Party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, India has incorporated the Convention's provisions into its relevant domestic laws.
- Another initiative, worth mentioning is the "Unique Identity Card for Persons with Disabilities" project which is being implemented with a view of creating a national database and ensure transparency, uniformity, efficiency and ease of delivering the government benefits to the person with disabilities.
Mr. President,
- India reiterates its steadfast commitment to build 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.
