On May 15, 2025, the Inclusive India Summit was held at the India International Centre, New Delhi, coinciding with Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). Organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with SBI Foundation and the National Association for the Blind (NAB), Delhi, the summit promoted inclusive development and digital accessibility for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).
Key Highlights of the Summit
A Collective Responsibility
The Chief Guest, Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary (DEPwD), emphasized that ensuring accessibility and inclusion for Divyangjan is a collective duty of society. He highlighted three pillars—Life, Learning, and Livelihood—stressing that every Divyangjan deserves a life of dignity. He advocated for accessible technology to simplify daily tasks and called for inclusive educational infrastructure to enable Divyangjan children to access mainstream education without discrimination.
On livelihood, Shri Aggarwal underscored the importance of making Divyangjan self-reliant. He praised the corporate sector for employing skilled youth with disabilities and urged parents to support their children’s potential.
Strategic Partnerships for Inclusion
Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)
The summit witnessed the signing of three MoUs between DEPwD and organizations dedicated to empowering Divyangjan:
- I for Humanity Foundation: Focuses on creating accessible built environments and transportation systems, including an Accessibility Index for public buildings.
- Nipman Foundation and Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC): Aims to promote innovation through hackathons, competitions, and Equal Opportunity Awards.
- Ramp My City Foundation: Works to develop barrier-free public infrastructure, including healthcare centers and tourist destinations.
Innovations in Accessibility
AI-Powered Solutions
A significant highlight was the demonstration of a voice and WhatsApp-based AI-enabled chatbot, developed in collaboration with Sarvam AI. This tool aims to improve access to information about disability-related schemes and initiatives, enhancing connectivity for Divyangjan.
Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary (DEPwD), emphasized that accessibility is foundational to inclusivity, requiring a collaborative effort to ensure Divyangjan’s active participation in society.
Why This Matters
Building an Inclusive Future
The Inclusive India Summit reflects India’s commitment to creating a society where Divyangjan can thrive. By fostering partnerships, leveraging technology, and promoting awareness, the event lays the groundwork for a more accessible and inclusive India. As Shri Sanjay Prakash, Managing Director of SBI Foundation, noted, accessibility transcends physical infrastructure, driving positive transformation in the lives of persons with disabilities.
Key Facts About the Inclusive India Summit
- The summit was held on May 15, 2025, aligning with Global Accessibility Awareness Day.
- It was organized by DEPwD, in collaboration with SBI Foundation, NAB Delhi, and supported by APD and Mission Accessibility.
- Three MoUs were signed to enhance accessibility in infrastructure, innovation, and public spaces.
- An AI-enabled chatbot was showcased to improve access to disability-related information.
- The event emphasized Life, Learning, and Livelihood as key pillars for empowering Divyangjan.