Why is it in the news?
The Supreme Court struck down an arbitrary disability ceiling in employment. Emphasised functional ability over rigid percentage limits.
Category: Polity
Important Points:
● RPwD Act, 2016 replaced 1995 disability law
● Based on UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities
● Defines benchmark disability as 40% or more
● Expands recognised disabilities from 7 to 21 categories
● Provides 4% reservation in government jobs
● Ensures 5% reservation in higher education
● Guarantees free education for children with disabilities (6–18 years)
● Promotes accessibility in infrastructure and services
● Introduces concept of limited guardianship