Union Budget 2025 Overlooks Need of India's Disabled Population: NCPEDP

NEW DELHI: The Union Budget 2025 has been severely criticized for allegedly neglecting the disabled population in India, though the government itself claims to work on the principles of "inclusivity". The advocacy group, NCPEDP, has been disappointed with no specific policies or financial allocations targeted towards supporting persons with disabilities.

The disability sector has been long demanding the development of the assistive devices manufacturing industry, which holds significant growth potential. The budget, however, did not touch this critical area, and most of the demands were left unaddressed. The budget has included customs duty relief on life-saving drugs for cancer and rare diseases, but no such provisions have been made for assistive technologies that can be of great help to disabled people.

A new initiative to support five lakh first-time entrepreneurs, including women and SC/ST communities, has been introduced. However, it is criticized that the same should have included provisions for disabled entrepreneurs.

A major push has been given to the ‘Made in India’ toy industry. Yet, the booming assistive technology sector, which could empower millions of persons with disabilities, finds no mention.

The budget commendably doubles the tax deduction limit for senior citizens, yet there is no corresponding benefit for persons with disabilities, who often face ongoing financial challenges.

Advocates claim that a budget, which does not cater to the needs of millions of disabled citizens, cannot be said to be inclusive at all. They would instead continue demanding recognition, policies, and investments that reflect the rights and contributions that disabled people have towards national development.

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