The Indian government has introduced new draft standards to make daily products more accessible for people with disabilities. These guidelines aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can use common household and personal items easily and safely.
The proposed rules cover a wide range of products, including kitchenware, furniture, grooming items, childcare products, and medical supplies. One of the key features is that many of these products will need to include Braille and tactile labels. This will help visually impaired users identify items more easily and promote barrier-free access.
According to the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), these standards are based on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and Supreme Court instructions. The goal is to create products that are ‘disabled-friendly’ and tailor-made to meet the needs of differently-abled individuals.
For example, kitchen items like utensils will need easy-to-grip handles, resealable packaging, and Braille or pictogram labels. Adaptive clothing and footwear should feature magnetic closures and slip-resistant soles to ensure safety and comfort. Childcare products such as toys, strollers, and adaptive furniture will also come under these new guidelines, promoting easier and safer use for children with disabilities.
The guidelines emphasize making ATMs and Point of Sale (PoS) devices accessible for everyone. UPI interfaces should be compatible with screen readers, voice commands, and other assistive tools. Digital products and apps must support screen readers, voice controls, and alternative input options to help users with various abilities.
Cost is also a focus. The government wants these upgrades to be affordable, so products will need to go through mandatory accessibility testing by certified agencies. They will receive ratings from Level A to Level AAA, with clear labels, and must be periodically renewed to ensure ongoing compliance.
The draft guidelines suggest using AI-based systems for better monitoring and information sharing, making sure that accessibility standards are maintained across different products and environments. This includes home accessibility items like ramps, grab bars, smart lighting, non-slip flooring, and height-adjustable furniture, all designed to fit the needs of the disabled community.
Overall, these new standards aim to create a more inclusive environment by making everyday products and public facilities easier and safer for people with disabilities.
