The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, marked a significant advancement in disability rights in India. It replaced the earlier Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995.
A key change introduced by the RPwD Act, 2016, was the expansion of the list of recognized disabilities. This aimed to provide legal protection and benefits to a wider range of individuals.
This increase reflects a broader understanding and inclusion of diverse disabilities within the legal framework.
The RPwD Act, 2016, expanded the number of recognized disabilities from the previous 7 under the 1995 Act to 21.