The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), with support from Mphasis, is set to unveil 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 addresses the growing global need for assistive technology (AT), which, according to the World Health Organization, is required by over 2.5 billion people worldwide. However, less than 10% of those in low- and middle-income countries have access to such products.
Recognizing the Urgent Gap
India lacks a dedicated national policy framework for assistive technology, despite having over 2.68 crore persons with disabilities, more than 70% of whom live in rural areas with limited access to assistive services. The challenge is compounded by a rapidly aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses. The policy paper, to be released on June 24, provides foundational recommendations for a National Assistive Technology Policy Framework and calls for a comprehensive overhaul in how India designs, delivers, finances, and sustains AT.
A Shift from Welfare to Infrastructure
Arman Ali, Executive Director of NCPEDP, emphasizes that assistive technology should no longer be viewed 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. He notes that while India has a strong normative foundation through the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, the Accessible India Campaign, and the National Education Policy, 2020, the delivery of AT remains fragmented across ministries and schemes, with a predominant focus on device procurement and one-time distribution.
Economic Opportunity and Market Potential
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 and domestic manufacturing. However, access remains limited to only a fraction of those in need. The launch event will bring together Members of Parliament, senior government officials, representatives from STPI and technology institutions, civil society organizations, development sector experts, disability rights advocates, academia, and persons with disabilities to discuss the future of AT in India and the necessity of a dedicated national policy framework.
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