Since its rapid economic growth, India has become sidelined by many development agencies. Yet, 75% of the population still live on less than $2 a day and a quarter of all child deaths globally occur in India. These problems extend to the often-marginalised disabled and amputee community:
- 70 million disabled people
- 7% of disabled are illiterate
- 12 million children have a disability
Part of the problem is access to healthcare, but other barriers include a lack of opportunities when it comes to education and employment. In addition, social segregation can cause a problem because of prejudice and unfounded fears of disability. Social segregation often means that children are forced to beg on the streets and undertake child labour, exposing themselves to violence and further health problems. For example, UNICEF estimates that 30% of street youth are disabled.
Looking Forward:
Despite this, India has taken some significant steps to aid those with disabilities:
- Financial benefits: Those with disabilities can claim financial assistance and children with disabilities have the right to access free education until 18 as well as transport benefits.
- Laws: India Disability Act 1995, The Persons with Disabilities Act, The Mental Health Act 1987 and The Rehabilitation Council of India Act.
- Employment: 3% of government jobs are reserved for people with disabilities.
But with widespread stigma, few jobs and lower literacy disabled individuals remain the most marginalised, needing assistance in gaining medical care and education. This is where ELoH steps in, providing care in Andhra Pradesh.
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