Disability rights organizations have strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025, accusing the government of neglecting the needs of India&rsquo;s disabled community. Despite a marginal increase in the allocation for the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), activists argue it remains grossly insufficient.
Presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the budget has also seen a significant reduction in funding for the Scheme for Implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act (SIPDA), which supports initiatives like the Accessible India Campaign. The allocation has dropped from ₹240.39 crore in 2022-23 to ₹115.10 crore this year.
The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) expressed its strong protest, stating the budget falls far short of the demands of disability rights organizations and activists. Mental health funding also came under scrutiny, with a reduction in the mental health programme&rsquo;s budget from ₹90 crore to ₹79.60 crore.
Arman Ali, Executive Director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), also voiced his disappointment, highlighting the lack of provisions for assistive devices manufacturing, which has the potential to be a global leader in the industry. He criticized the absence of benefits for persons with disabilities, asking why there are no similar tax deductions for them as seen for senior citizens.
Both NPRD and NCPEDP have vowed to continue their fight for better recognition, policies, and investments in the disability sector. A protest is planned for February 10, demanding a Right to Pension Act and increased pension amounts for persons with disabilities.
The groups emphasized that a budget that overlooks millions of disabled individuals fails to represent true inclusivity.

Mental health programme’s budget from ₹90 crore to ₹79.60 crore

Say Centre 'neglecting' disabled population as allocation falls from ₹240.39 cr to ₹115.10 cr

Disability Rights Groups Slam Budget 2025-26

Say Centre 'neglecting' disabled population as allocation falls from ₹240.39 cr to ₹115.10 cr

February 1, 2025 | 19:19 IST