Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign)

Context:
The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, launched on December 3, 2015, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, recently marked nine years of progress. The initiative aims to create a barrier-free environment for Divyangjans (Persons with Disabilities) across the country.

Implementing Agency:

• Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Background:

1. Legal Framework:
   • The Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995, mandated non-discrimination in transport and the built environment.
   • Replaced by the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), ensuring broader accessibility rights.

Key Components of the Accessible India Campaign:

1. Built Environment Accessibility:
   • Focuses on making public spaces and infrastructure barrier-free for better mobility.
2. Information and Communication Accessibility:
   • Includes accessible websites, documents, and platforms like the Sugamya Bharat App, enabling individuals to report accessibility challenges.
3. Transportation Accessibility:
   • Promotes independent mobility through accessible public and private transport systems.
4. Sign Language Expansion:
   • Supports training interpreters and increasing media accessibility for persons with hearing disabilities.

Sugamya Bharat App:

• Launched by: DEPwD, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Objective:
  • Enables users to report accessibility issues in public buildings, transport systems, and other infrastructures.
  • Beneficial for PwDs and the elderly to address barriers in real-time.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities:

• Established by: The United Nations General Assembly in 1992.
• Date Observed: December 3 every year.
• Aim:
  • To raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
  • Promote their rights, well-being, and full participation in society.

Significance of Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan:

• Represents India’s commitment to UNCRPD and sustainable development goals (SDGs) promoting inclusivity.
• Marks a critical step toward addressing barriers in physical, informational, and systemic environments for equitable participation by PwDs.