Championing Accessibility: 15 Years of the NCPEDP-Mphasis Universal Design Awards

The NCPEDP-Mphasis Universal Design Awards celebrated its 15th edition, recognizing contributions to accessibility and universal design. Despite advancements from India's PWD Act 1995 to the RPWD Act 2016, implementing effective access remains a challenge. The event honored 16 individuals and organizations for their work, emphasizing the need for inclusive design and mainstream integration.

As India marks 77 years of independence, the essence of freedom is underlined by the importance of accessibility for all citizens. Disability experts and entrepreneurs emphasized this at the 15th NCPEDP-Mphasis Universal Design Awards.

The awards, in recognition of contributions to accessibility, were presented on the eve of Independence Day by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Despite legal progress through the PWD Act 1995 and the RPWD Act 2016, effective implementation remains problematic, leaving many from the disabled population marginalized.

Winners from across India were honored in three categories—persons with disabilities, professionals, and organizations. NCPEDP's Executive Director Arman Ali highlighted the significance of these awards in promoting inclusivity. This year, Radhika Alkazi received the prestigious NCPEDP-Mphasis Javed Abidi Public Policy Award, underscoring ongoing advocacy efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)