The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), with support from Mphasis, is set to release a groundbreaking policy paper titled Assistive Technology in India: A Systems and Investment Approach for Inclusion, Independence, and Economic Participation of Persons with Disabilities. This document is the first of its kind in the country and aims to address the critical gap in assistive technology (AT) access.
Global Context and Urgent Need
According to the World Health Organization, over 2.5 billion people worldwide require at least one assistive technology product, such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, wheelchairs, prosthetics, or communication apps. However, in low- and middle-income countries, less than 10% of those in need have access to such devices. India, home to 2.68 crore persons with disabilities—over 70% of whom live in rural areas with limited services—faces a growing challenge as the elderly population rises and chronic illnesses become more prevalent.
Key Recommendations
The policy paper, to be unveiled on June 24, presents foundational recommendations for a National Assistive Technology Policy Framework. It calls for a comprehensive overhaul of how India designs, delivers, finances, and sustains AT for persons with disabilities, older adults, and individuals with functional limitations. The goal is to create an accessible, affordable, and future-ready AT ecosystem.
Arman Ali, Executive Director of NCPEDP, emphasized that assistive technology should no longer be seen as a welfare measure or one-time distribution exercise. Instead, it must be recognized as essential social and economic infrastructure that directly impacts education, employment, healthcare, mobility, independent living, and productivity.
Existing Framework and Gaps
India has established a strong rights-based foundation through the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, the Accessible India Campaign, and the National Education Policy, 2020. The Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) Scheme has expanded access to basic devices for low-income households. However, AT delivery remains fragmented across ministries and schemes, with a focus on device procurement rather than sustained support.
Economic Opportunity
The policy paper estimates that India's assistive technology market could reach USD 8-10 billion by 2030, presenting a significant opportunity for policy-led innovation, investment, and domestic manufacturing. Despite this potential, access remains limited to a fraction of those in need.
Launch Event
The launch event will bring together Members of Parliament, senior government officials, representatives from STPI and technology institutions, civil society organizations, development experts, disability rights advocates, academia, and persons with disabilities. They will discuss the future of AT in India and the necessity of a dedicated national policy framework.
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