Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities, at the 61st Session of the Human Rights Council (23 February - 31 March 2026) delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, Geneva
Geneva, 06 March 2026
Mr. Vice President,
India thanks the distinguished panelists for their insightful presentations. Their contribution remind us that accessibility is not only a matter of design, but a matter of dignity and equal participation in society.
- India deeply values the contributions that persons with disabilities make to our nation’s social and economic development. Guided by this belief, India enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which strengthens our commitment to equality, dignity, and accessibility as fundamental rights for all citizens.
- At the same time, we remain mindful of the barriers that persons with disabilities have historically faced in accessing public spaces, services, and opportunities. To address these challenges, India launched the Accessible India Campaign in 2015, a nationwide initiative aimed at creating a barrier-free and inclusive environment for persons with disabilities. The campaign focuses on three key pillars: accessible built infrastructure, inclusive transport systems, and an accessible information and communication technology ecosystem.
- Substantive progress has been made under this initiative. Today, all international airports in India and nearly 80% of domestic airports are equipped with accessibility features such as ramps, accessible toilets, helpdesks, and lifts with Braille and auditory systems. Aerobridges are available at all international and customs airports. In addition, nearly 88 per cent of bus stations across 24 States and Union Territories have incorporated accessibility features. In the digital sphere, 95 Central Government websites have been made accessible under a unified accessibility framework.
Mr. Vice President,
- India remains firmly committed to advancing an inclusive, accessible, and dignified society, where persons with disabilities can participate fully and equally in every aspect of national life.
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Thank You.
