As the government prepares to unveil the upcoming budget, the anticipation is palpable across various sectors. For the disability community, the stakes are particularly high. The transformative potential of assistive technology in improving the lives of persons with disabilities is undeniable, yet its widespread adoption remains a challenge. This budget presents an opportunity to catalyse significant change by prioritizing investments in assistive technology, enhancing accessibility, and fostering inclusive growth.
Current Landscape and Needs
India is home to more than 20 crore people with disabilities, according to approximations based on WHO data, representing a substantial market for assistive products. Assistive technology offers a promising solution to many of these challenges. Devices such as screen readers, hearing aids, mobility aids, and smart prosthetics have the potential to significantly make the ecosystem accessible and enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities, enabling greater independence and participation in the mainstream society.
However, the high cost and limited availability of these technologies remain major obstacles. Many individuals and families cannot afford the necessary devices, and awareness about the availability and benefits of assistive technology is often low.
Investing in assistive technology can unlock a significant, untapped source of economic growth by enabling persons with disabilities to contribute more effectively to the workforce. Higher funding for assistive technology will advance the rights and dignity of millions of Indians, laying the foundation for a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient economy. By allocating the necessary resources and support, the Government of India can ensure that the needs of its disabled population are met while harnessing their potential to drive economic growth and development.
According to the WHO Global Report on Assistive Technology, one in three people globally will require assistive products by 2050, yet only 5-15% of those in need currently have access due to high costs, lack of financing, availability, awareness, and trained personnel for servicing. In India, the demand for AT is fragmented and yet to evolve as a formal industry. With the government’s focus on establishing India as a manufacturing giant, this is an opportune moment to capture a significant share of this market.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares the July 23 Budget, it is crucial that the sector receives renewed focus. A decisive thrust on AT, along with the development and implementation of assistive technologies, will not only enhance the ease of living for the disabled but also stimulate new industries, generate employment opportunities, and simplify lives for millions. Adequate budget allocation for assistive technology can drive down the cost of these devices, making them accessible to a larger population and fostering greater participation of persons with disabilities across all spheres of life.
Key Expectations from the Budget
1. Increased Funding for Research and Development: The government should prioritize funding for the research and development of innovative assistive technologies. By investing in this area, India can become a global leader in the production of affordable, high-quality assistive devices. This includes supporting collaborations between academic institutions, tech companies, and non-profits to drive innovation.
2. Subsidies and Financial Support: To make assistive technology more affordable, the budget should include provisions for subsidies and financial assistance for individuals and families. This could be in the form of direct subsidies for purchasing assistive devices, tax incentives, or low-interest loans. Additionally, expanding health insurance coverage to include assistive technology would significantly reduce the financial burden on families.
3. Enhanced Accessibility in Public Services: Ensuring that public services and infrastructure are accessible to all is crucial. The budget should allocate funds for retrofitting public buildings, transportation systems, and educational institutions to make them more accessible. This includes installing ramps, tactile pathways, audio-visual aids, and other assistive technologies.
4. Capacity Building and Awareness Programs: Raising awareness about the availability and benefits of assistive technology is essential. The budget should support capacity-building initiatives for healthcare providers, educators, and employers to ensure they are equipped to assist individuals with disabilities. Public awareness campaigns can also help reduce stigma and promote the adoption of assistive technologies.
5. Support for Startups and Entrepreneurs: The assistive technology sector is ripe for innovation, and supporting startups and entrepreneurs can drive growth in this field. The budget should include incentives for startups developing assistive technologies, such as grants, tax breaks, and incubator programs. This will encourage the development of cost-effective and locally relevant solutions.
6. Inclusive Education and Employment Policies: The budget should allocate funds to promote inclusive education and employment practices. This includes investing in accessible educational materials and technologies, training teachers, and providing support services for students with disabilities. For employment, incentives for companies that adopt inclusive hiring practices and invest in workplace accessibility can create more job opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The Broader Impact
India's GDP of approximately $3.1 trillion makes it one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. With people with disabilities globally representing a market of $5 trillion, investing in assistive technology and accessibility is not just a social imperative; it is also an economic opportunity.
A more inclusive society can tap into the potential of millions of individuals who are currently marginalized. This can lead to increased productivity, innovation, and economic growth. Moreover, it aligns with India's commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
The article is co-authored by Arvind Gupta, Head and Co-Founder of Digital India Foundation & Arman Ali, Executive Director of National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP)
