The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled Persons (NCPEDP) praised the Union Budget 2026-27 for its targeted efforts towards people with disabilities. NCPEDP’s Executive Director, Arman Ali, lauded the introduction of Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana and Divyangjan Sahara Yojana, along with a Rs 300 crore allocation, as a significant move to enhance education, skills, and assistive technology access for the disabled community. Ali expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for prioritizing education, skill development, and assistive technologies for empowerment.
The Budget signifies a shift towards rights-based interventions that promote independence and choice for people with disabilities, moving away from welfare-driven approaches, according to NCPEDP. The organization highlighted its advocacy for similar approaches, including through its Assistive Technology Hub, showcasing how innovation and accessibility can positively impact lives. The government’s focus on expanding the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) and investing in Artificial Intelligence-led research aligns with NCPEDP’s efforts to mainstream assistive technology.
NCPEDP welcomed the increased budgetary support and additional scholarships for students with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in inclusive education. This support is seen as crucial in addressing barriers to access, retention, and completion of higher education and skill training programs for individuals with disabilities. The organization stressed that continuous investment in inclusive education, skill development, and assistive technology is vital for ensuring meaningful livelihoods, autonomy, and equal participation in the country’s growth.
The Union Budget 2026-27 reflects a positive step towards an inclusive and accessible India, noted Ali. Effective implementation of these initiatives will be key in translating policy commitments into tangible outcomes for the disability community.
