THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IN INDIA

Individuals with physical disabilities in India encounter substantial obstacles in accessing education, whichadversely affects their personal, social, and economic well-being. The research highlights the educational statusof this demographic, examining existing policies and programs aimed at addressing their needs while identifyingongoing barriers. The findings underscore the necessity for inclusive and accessible education, emphasizing theurgent requirement for a collaborative approach involving multiple stakeholders to ensure equitable educationalopportunities.The 2011 Indian Census indicates that approximately 26.8 million people in India have disabilities, with manyfacing neglect, stigma, and limited educational access. Women with disabilities experience compoundeddiscrimination due to their gender, disability, and socioeconomic status, referred to as the "triple burden." Thelack of educational opportunities leads to significant repercussions, including social exclusion and limitedemployment prospects, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and marginalization that undermines their human rights.Despite some governmental progress in recent years, challenges persist, such as inaccessible environments,insufficient teacher training, a lack of assistive technologies, and ongoing social stigma. To effectively tacklethese issues, a comprehensive approach is essential, involving policymakers, educators, disability rightsadvocates, and the community to create inclusive and barrier-free educational systems that empower individualswith physical disabilities.