Bengaluru, April 1: Give Grants, India’s leading CSR solutions platform, has released an in-depth study titled “Understanding the People with Disabilities (PwDs) Landscape in India.” The research provides a structured analysis of disability inclusion, highlighting key challenges, systemic gaps, and potential solutions to drive meaningful change.

Drawing from national data and sectoral insights, the study offers a comprehensive overview of the lives of PwDs in India. According to NFHS-5 (2021), India has 63 million PwDs (4.5% of the population), though non-government estimates suggest this figure may be as high as 8%. Despite the diversity of disabilities, India officially recognizes only 21 types across five categories, underscoring the underrepresentation of the varied needs of PwDs.

Key Findings of the Report

• Employment Barriers: Over 32% of PwDs fall within the economically active age group (30-49 years) but continue to face limited job opportunities, restricted healthcare access, and social exclusion.

• Education Challenges: More than 50% of children with disabilities and 66% of children with severe disabilities are out of school due to a lack of specialized support, infrastructure, and assistive technology.

• Budgetary Shortfalls: Government spending on PwDs remains less than 0.02% of the total national budget (₹1,015 Cr in 2022), with CSR contributions toward disability initiatives accounting for just 0.9% of total CSR expenditure (₹234 Cr of ₹26,000 Cr).

• Workplace Inclusion: In 2023, only 5 out of the Nifty 50 companies employed 1% or more PwD staff, pointing to persistent challenges in workplace accessibility, skilling, and job placement.

• Fragmented Support System: Despite interventions from the government, corporates, and nonprofits, critical gaps remain in early detection, education continuity, vocational training, and recreational access for PwDs.

A Call for Action

Speaking on the study’s release, Sumit Tayal, CEO of Give, emphasized the need for a holistic approach, stating: “Disability is a spectrum, not a singular identity. Our research aims to equip decision-makers, funders, and implementers with a deeper understanding of the challenges—along with a roadmap for inclusive action.”

The study outlines stakeholder-led solutions and calls for greater collaboration to build an inclusive India. Key recommendations include:

• Increased R&D for assistive technologies

• Expanded disability-inclusive education and employment programs

• Strengthened caregiver support systems and accessibility infrastructure

For the full report and partnership opportunities, visit: https://give.do/givegrants/understanding-indias-disability-landscape

About Give Grants

Give Grants supports corporates, foundations, and HNIs in maximizing their social impact through technology-driven solutions. Partnering with 3,000+ nonprofits and 300+ organizations, Give Grants offers end-to-end grant management, monitoring & evaluation, and compliance support. Over the past 20 years, Give has collaborated with companies like ICICI, HDFC, TCS, Google, Microsoft, Amex, KPMG, Flipkart, Ola, Myntra, and others to drive corporate giving in India.

For media inquiries, visit: www.give.do