Awareness of Unique Disability Identification Card amongst Persons with Locomotor Disabilities

Abstract Background: Owing to social demographic transitions and an ageing population, disability has become an integral aspect of the global human experience across various professions. One crucial concept shaping current policies for individuals with disabilities worldwide is the integration of people with impairments into society and their active involvement in their communities. In conjunction with social and rehabilitative initiatives, the Indian government has introduced a novel concept for a disability certificate known as Unique Disability Identity (UDID) throughout the entire country. The ‘Unique Identity for Persons with Disabilities’ programme aims to issue a distinctive disability identity card to everyone with a disability. Methodology: After obtaining written informed consent, 560 consecutive patients attending the physical medicine and rehabilitation department who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria with a permanent physical impairment of at least 40% were recruited for the research. The study was entirely conducted through interviews over a 3-month period. A questionnaire related to the UDID card, along with demographic information, was administered during hybrid mode online and offline interviews. Results: A total of 560 people participated in the study, comprising 92 (16.5%) women and 468 (83.5%) men. It was found that 248 individuals (44.3%) were classified above the poverty line, while 312 individuals (55.7%) were classified below it. Conclusion: To benefit the public, we must raise greater awareness through various channels and utilise these platforms to engage in discussions about the advantages of this special identity card for people with disabilities.