Ability Foundation

Census of India: A Milestone for Disability Inclusion

The 2001 Census stands as a monumental turning point in India's journey towards disability inclusion.

This historic endeavor not only symbolised a commitment to recognize the rights and lived experiences of persons with disabilities, but also laid the groundwork for future advocacy in this crucial area.

In a pioneering collaboration, Ability Foundation joined hands with the Directorate of Census Operations to ensure that the voices of those often overlooked were heard and recorded.

In Tamil Nadu, the first State to initiate this transformative effort, sensitisation programmes were organised for over 1,50,000 census enumerators. Each enumerator became an ambassador of inclusivity, equipped with the knowledge and awareness needed to approach the task with empathy and understanding. To amplify these efforts further, the Foundation launched an extensive public awareness campaign, featuring eye-catching posters, informative stickers, and a powerful one-minute film directed by the renowned filmmaker Sri. Rajiv Menon. This film resonated widely, was aired on 22 national channels and cemented the importance of accurately capturing the data of individuals with disabilities.

The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. By collecting comprehensive disability data for the first time in India, we paved the way for informed policymaking, resource allocation, and advocacy efforts that address the needs of the disabled community. This data serves as not only a reflection of society's diversity but also a testament to our collective responsibility to foster inclusivity and equality. In recognizing and including individuals with disabilities, we embrace their contributions and experiences, ultimately also enrich our society as a whole.

Wish to be a friend of Ability?

Join us

Know more