In essence, building a disability-inclusive society requires more than awareness—it demands committed action, thoughtful planning, and accountability. Image used for representational purposes only
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A popular video narrates the story of an individual waking up in a world designed for people with visual impairment, where writing and signage are in braille, a world that feels different and overwhelming for someone with other needs. The video serves as a gentle reminder to all of us, to perhaps look outward through a different lens. This week, December 3, proclaimed by the United Nations as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed. This is a day dedicated to promoting an understanding of disability-related issues, mobilising support, and increasing awareness to help persons with disabilities integrate into society.
Fostering inclusion
This year’s theme, ‘Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress’, focuses on creating a society where every individual can participate fully and without barriers. While advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities continues to grow, as a society, we are falling behind in translating this advocacy into practical, workable outcomes.
How do we create an inclusive society and thereby promote social progress? The biggest challenge appears to be accessibility. While physical medicine and rehabilitation focus on improving mobility and reducing complications thereby enabling individuals to be more socially active, the next step is ensuring that the environment itself is accessible to persons with disabilities.
Accessibility challenges are everywhere. For instance, while we have policies supporting the right to education, there remains a disconnect between policy and implementation, with many families still struggling to enrol their children in educational institutions. Similarly, expanding economic opportunities should be a priority area for policymakers committed to creating an inclusive society.
Committing to action
In essence, building a disability-inclusive society requires more than awareness—it demands committed action, thoughtful planning, and accountability. As we reflect upon the International Day of Persons with Disabilities that has just, we are reminded that inclusion is not an act of charity but a recognition of equal rights and shared humanity.
True social progress is measured not by how we support the majority, but by how we empower those who have historically been left out. The path forward is clear: when we design our world for everyone, we create a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive.
(Dr. Vinitha Varghese is with the department of physical medicine & rehabilitation, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. vinithavarghese.pm@naruvihospitals.com)
Published – December 04, 2025 12:34 pm IST
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