World Disability Day

Author: poojasharma | Posted: 01.12.2011

International Disability Day or World Disability Day is observed all across the globe on 3rd December, every year. This initiative was taken up in the year 1992 by the United Nations. Ever since, a lot of schools, NGO’s, government bodies and even corporate houses acknowledge and participate in the numerous events on this day to express their solidarity with the disabled people.

What is a Disability?

To be a part of this movement, one must understand the broader meaning of this word, “disability”. Literal meaning of this word is that it could be an incapacity or some sort of a handicap limiting a person’s movements, senses or activities. Now, does this definition end here? Apart from the physical shortcomings, is the life of a disabled person normal? NO. It is not. Over 7 million people in India are disabled and unfortunately, no matter how liberated we call our society today, this particular challenged segment still remains oppressed and isolated.

Rationale behind Promoting Awareness

You and I are fortunate enough to be able to see all the beautiful things in this World, to be able to read, write, and eat on our own. Sadly, majority of people with disabilities do not enjoy this kind of freedom. They are treated like a “baggage” or a “liability” which is, criminal!

The main intention behind promoting awareness about this day is to spread knowledge about the disability issues, the kind of support that should be extended, the rights that a disabled person should/must enjoy to ensure their total involvement in all walks of the society, with respect!

How This Day is observed?

Every year, this day is observed with a particular theme. For this year, it is “Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development”. Social activists, support group leaders, celebrities etc. participate in the forums, information campaigns to uncover novel ways and resources by which the persons with disabilities can be incorporated into the development agenda.

Schools and colleges encourage persons with inabilities to put up performances to instill self assurance in them, that they are very much competent and skilled. Different organizations organize platforms wherein such people are facilitated for their contributions to the society.

One such NGO in Delhi, Sparsh, promoted by Marvel Group comprising of brands such as Mother’s Pride, Presidium, Adiva and The Knowledge Tree celebrates World Disability Day every year. The main agenda of the organization is to endow underprivileged with the necessary skills to manage life on their own. This year too, on 3rd December, a grand commemoration has been planned with the aim to empower the underprivileged children. The occasion will be graced by a few distinguished people too, to encourage children to lead their lives with full passion, conquering every single hurdle, with zest and will.



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