Initiative for workplace inclusivity of the disabled
Anshita Mehra
New Delhi, March 5
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, emphasised the untapped potential of the private sector for employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for persons with disabilities (PwDs) at the unveiling of the ‘Di-Verse’ initiative in New Delhi.
Bridging the gap
- The initiative aligns with the government’s inclusive employment vision, bridging the gap between PwDs seeking opportunities and employers.
- Linked to the Divyangjan Rojgar Setu PM Daksh Portal, the initiative aims to serve 10 million PwDs across India, advancing the nation’s economic growth through inclusive employment strategies.
Aggarwal stated, “Several big companies are realising the immense value PwDs bring to the workforce. While initial adjustments may pose challenges, the dedication and hard work displayed by PwDs contribute significantly to the companies’ success.”
The ‘Di-Verse’ initiative, an endeavour of the American India Foundation (AIF), introduces an accessible workplace certification aimed at gauging the inclusivity in work environments.
The initiative assesses companies across six key criteria to determine their level of disability inclusion. The criteria encompass various aspects of workplace culture and practices, including leadership values, accessibility measures, employment policies, community involvement, supplier diversity, and marketing strategies. The assessment framework, developed through collaboration with 29 specialists and leaders in diversity, accessibility, and corporate inclusion, comprehensively addresses the needs of individuals with 21 different disabilities.
With the ministry’s support, the AIF aims to leverage its network to provide employment opportunities to 10 million PwDs across India.
It stems from the AIF’s flagship programme, Ability Based Livelihood Empowerment (ABLE), which has trained over 18,000 PwDs and facilitated employment for 10,000 individuals through partnerships with inclusive employers.
