As the country with the largest population in the world, India is also home to the largest number of people living with disabilities. In order to move on the path of holistic and sustainable progress, it is crucial that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) are not only accepted and integrated in the mainstream society but also empowered to function in it. Such empowerment can only come from opportunities to earn a dignified livelihood.
The American India Foundation (AIF) has been working tirelessly on this front through various programs in collaboration with corporates, NGOs and the government. Their latest endeavour, DI-verse, aims to double the number of PwDs in formal sector employment and strengthen the entrepreneurial landscape. Drawing from their successful Ability Based Livelihood Empowerment (ABLE) program, DI-verse is setting the stage for sustainable change in the corporate landscape. It introduces comprehensive guidelines across multiple categories and incentivizes corporations to integrate accessibility seamlessly into their operations and foster a culture where diversity thrives.
In this interview with TheCSRUniverse, Jay Kumar, National Manager, Disability Inclusion, American India Foundation (AIF) delves into the core objectives and components of DI-verse, shedding light on its alignment with AIF's broader mission. He shares insights into the role of technology, government policies, and AIF's vision that extends beyond mere economic empowerment. With a keen focus on societal transformation, DI-verse endeavors to dismantle stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disability, paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.
Read the full interview to know more about DI-verse and AIF’s vision on true empowerment of people with disabilities:
Q. Congratulations on the launch of DI-verse! Can you elaborate on the core objectives and components of this initiative and how it aligns with AIF's broader mission?
A. DI-verse, an American India Foundation initiative, is dedicated to transforming corporations into inclusive environments committed to both social impact and financial advancement of persons with disabilities (PwDs). DI-verse, an initiative launched by the American India Foundation (AIF), aims to foster inclusive environments within corporations, facilitating the integration of persons with disabilities (PwDs) into the workforce while advancing both social impact and financial growth. Derived from AIF’s existing program, Ability Based Livelihood Empowerment (ABLE), which has trained over 18,000+ PwDs and provided jobs to 10,000+ candidates through partnerships with 1,800+ inclusive employers.
Guided by experts in disability advocacy and diversity, DI-verse has developed comprehensive guidelines across six critical categories: Culture & Leadership, Access, Adjustments & Accommodations, Employment Practices, Community Engagement, and Supplier Diversity & Responsible Procurement. These guidelines serve as benchmarks for organizations to evaluate their progress towards inclusivity.
Moreover, DI-verse introduces a certification process to recognize corporations demonstrating exceptional commitment to disability inclusion. Through this certification, companies are encouraged to integrate accessibility into various facets of their operations, including communication strategies, policies, infrastructure, and recruitment practices.
Q. How do you plan to foster inclusive workplaces for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), particularly in the context of the corporate landscape in India? Also, how will the transition of PwDs into skill-based and leadership positions be facilitated?
A. An essential element of disability inclusion involves establishing workplaces that embrace individuals and appreciate their contributions. Additionally, providing support through awareness, training, and job opportunities can empower Persons with Disabilities economically, offering them suitable means of livelihood. Recognizing the significance of certifications to companies and their commitment to maintaining them, it's evident that while several global certifications on disability inclusion exist, the unique context of India necessitates tailored incorporation of such practices.
Our primary focus is on collaboration and guidance. We work closely with corporates, guiding them in fostering a culture of inclusivity and embracing diverse talent. By providing tailored training programs, we ensure that PwDs not only secure jobs but excel in them, ultimately transitioning into skill-based and leadership positions.
Q. Could you elaborate on the role of technology in advancing disability-inclusive ecosystems, as discussed in AIF's Future of Livelihoods event?
A. Technology emerges as a key enabler in building inclusive workspaces in India, bridging gaps for individuals with disabilities. Inclusive development leverages technology to create adaptive solutions, ensuring that no potential contributor is overlooked. Assistive technologies like screen readers and mobility aids enable independent access to digital content and physical environments. Remote work opportunities facilitated by technology provide flexible employment options, overcoming geographical barriers. Online platforms support skill development, education, and networking for persons with disabilities. Moreover, technology amplifies efforts for raising awareness and promoting disability rights through social media and digital storytelling, driving social change and fostering inclusivity. Overall, technology plays an important role in empowering individuals with disabilities to fully engage in society, education, and employment. These advancements not only enhance accessibility but also promote equity and inclusivity in both digital and professional spheres.
Q. The event also discussed the need for focusing not only on economic empowerment but also on building a society where diversity is celebrated. How does AIF envision achieving this broader societal impact?
A. AIF's strategy encompasses education, community engagement, working in concert with the government, and media representation. By addressing societal attitudes and systemic barriers, AIF strives for a society that celebrates diversity and enables everyone to flourish. While corporate gains from workplace inclusivity are substantial, such as economic benefits and revenue growth, the true value lies beyond mere financial gains. The diverse cultures and perspectives fostered by inclusivity also enhance productivity, camaraderie, and loyalty, making it a strategic advantage for corporations.
Q. DI-verse has emerged from AIF's ABLE program, which has trained over 18,000+ PwDs and provided jobs to 10,000+ candidates. Could you shed light on the key learnings from ABLE that influenced the development of DI-verse?
A. Working to empower India’s persons with disabilities, ABLE builds skill sets and facilitates access to employment, while also promoting acceptance of disabilities in the larger community. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including governments, national empowerment institutes for PwDs, NGOs, and the private sector, ABLE paved the way for collaborative efforts in advancing disability inclusion discourse. AIF's decade-long commitment to disability inclusion through ABLE laid the foundation for DI-verse's aspiration to create a more equitable and diverse society, where every individual is valued.
Through DI-verse, AIF aims to strengthen collaborations with the private sector and increase employment opportunities for PwDs in the organized sector. Building upon ABLE's legacy, DI-verse seeks to further promote inclusivity and diversity in corporate environments, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society.
Q. In India, there are still prevailing stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disability in the workforce. How does AIF plan to address these societal attitudes and promote a more inclusive mindset among employers and the general-public?
A. To address prevailing stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disability in the Indian workforce, DI-verse conducts awareness campaigns and champions inclusive policies. Contrary to common beliefs, disability inclusion initiatives are not burdensome or costly. Research shows that while there may be initial expenses, they result in long-term benefits such as reduced turnover rates and increased morale. Moreover, individuals with disabilities exhibit comparable or higher productivity levels when provided with appropriate support.
Embracing disability inclusion not only fosters a more diverse and innovative workforce but also contributes to a more inclusive and successful organization overall. Through partnerships and showcasing success stories, DI-verse aims to reshape societal attitudes and create a more welcoming environment for persons with disabilities in the organized sector.
Q. Government policies and regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in facilitating disability inclusion in the workforce. In your opinion, are there any specific policy reforms or interventions that would help in promoting inclusion and upliftment of people with disabilities?
A. Government of India provides many opportunities in terms of education and employment to persons with disabilities. Particularly, the Rights of Persons with Disability (RPwD) Act, 2016 provides for 4% reservation in employment in the establishments of the Government of India, State Governments and Public Sector Undertakings against identified posts for the disabled population.
In September 2023, the government launched the PM DAKSH-DEPwD portal that acts as a “one-stop digital destination” for PwDs to develop their skills and explore job opportunities.However, specific policy reforms such as mandating inclusive hiring practices, enforcing accessibility standards, investing in vocational training programs, providing financial incentives, and strengthening anti-discrimination laws are some of the crucial areas of concern for promoting inclusion and upliftment of people with disabilities in the workforce.
Q. What are the key priorities for AIF in advancing disability inclusion and fostering livelihood opportunities for marginalized communities in the near to medium future (2-3 years)?
A. Looking forward, AIF's priorities for advancing disability inclusion and fostering livelihood opportunities include prioritizing onboarding individuals with disabilities onto our inclusive job portal, promoting remote work, developing digital content, and certifying individuals in web accessibility with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India and International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).
We aim to support 100 corporations integrate disability inclusion through DI-verse and host nationwide job fairs to connect job seekers with disabilities to inclusive employers. We have commenced our efforts by launching one of the largest employment campaigns for PwDs in the country with 25-job fairs across 25 cities of India. Additionally, we aim to design tailored skill development programs to empower individuals with disabilities in entrepreneurship. Our initiatives focus on training, mentorship, funding access, and networking opportunities to enable aspiring entrepreneurs. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society, providing essential resources and fostering entrepreneurship among marginalized communities.
