Disability is a word that is taken and poured out of the context in India. A person with physical challenges is often termed as disable, someone who is unable to do certain activities like others. Understandably yes, a person with severed limbs, a spinal injury or someone with a birth defect cannot possibly do the mundane odd jobs effortlessly. But, what remains a sad reality is that in a country like India, there is possibly no dignity of existence for people who are challenged in their movement in many ways. While we say that the person is unable to do this, in reality the environment is least congenial for the physically challenged people to do anything. The places, the transport system and the general empathy of people towards people who need support is least. In many ways the government and its machinery can do a lot of things to ensure a more dignified life to such people.
Here are few points that the government must do to make their life much more seamless, independent and respectful.
Awareness About Disabilities
There is a lot of unawareness among general public about disability in a person and its various kinds. So, before we talk about what can be done for such people, it is important to first learn what this problem is all about. A broad awareness program must be created so that people learn more about this and act accordingly.
Improvement in transport system
One of the most important area that needs improvement in this respect is a feasible transportation system in the country. Sadly, our public transport system is least disable friendly, which makes life enormously difficult for people who need help. There must seats especially designed and designated for them in the bus and trains. Also, there must be ramps in the bus and trains so that wheelchair bound people can easily commute from one place to another.
Roads must be improved
One of the biggest hindrance for differently abled people is the bad roads. Especially if the person is wheelchair bound, there is no way he can move himself effortlessly on the road. The potholes, uneven pavements, and open drainage makes it immensely difficult for such people to move like others. Improvement of roads and pavements is thus a must.
Offices, workstations and Educational Institutes must be disabled friendly
Not many school, colleges, offices and workstations are disable friendly. The washrooms are again a huge issue that these people face in their day today life. The office chairs, desks and other equipments are least in accordance to their needs. And more often, specially abled people are left with limited options to do something in full potential. Equal opportunities and facilities at par is a must here.
Empathy from fellow countrymen
Let’s accept the fact we treat disability sympathetically. Many times such people are looked down up. They are not treated well or else showered blatant sympathy that makes them realize that there is something that isn’t alright with them. This must change. People must treat them with empathy and not sympathy. These people need our love, respect and support and not our obligations. They are our own brothers and sisters who need special care. And, as fellow countrymen, we must put our best feet forward to take them along as we march in the path of development and progress.
I must say that I am proud of my country which is taking such a wonderful initiative for the persons with some disability. Awareness programs are therefore held for the same so that people know more and more about it. Our government is really improving to help the needfuls.