Disability does not mean Inability.

By Aadhya Thakur

Disability does not mean inability. 

by Aadhya Thakur

1 in every 6 people in the world, which is approximately 16% of the world’s population experiences disability, out of which merely 57% are employed. 

Let us learn about disability, As Wikipedia describes it, A Disability is a cognitive, mental, physical, or developmental condition that limits a person’s abilities to perform activities around them. Aristotle viewed disability and deformity as deviations from the natural human function, hindering an individual's ability to achieve human flourishing. However, such representation of differently abled people is all a matter of perception. One’s ability to carry out basic tasks depends from one individual to another. 

There are many myths that come with being differently abled, caused by lack of knowledge and experience prompting stereotypical assumptions, one such assumption entails— judgement about employment opportunities and the belief that disabled people tend to be less productive. The fact is, that people having special needs are fully capable of leading a fulfilling and rewarding life. 

It is observed that many employers are timid about hiring people with special needs fearing that it is not financially viable for them to do so, this is a misconception as a result of which, differently abled people have a substantially low rate of employment. Not only this, but they often face social exclusion from accessing public facilities, merely because of a superiority complex heavily engrained in the minds of people. On account of this, it is important to acknowledge that October is observed as The National Disability Employment Awareness Month in the United states. 

In India, there are legal considerations that protect the rights of disabled people. Key rights include: 

 The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 (the ‘Disabilities Act’)

Was enacted by the Indian government to ensure that people with disabilities get equal opportunities and full inclusion in society. 

Reservations 

Disabled persons are entitled to 4% reservation of total vacant seats in government jobs. 

The Rehabilitation Council of India Act 1992 

Regulates the training of professionals in the disability sector to ensure quality services

The National Trust Act 1999

The national trust act was created to promote welfare of people with autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities. 

This act holds significance to assure disabled people with financial assistance and guardianship. 

Recognizing the importance of disability employment and raising awareness for the same is a crucial step in making the world a better and more accessible space for differently abled people to reside in.