A detailed overview of how India’s evolving policy framework is driving assistive technology (AT) innovation, adoption, and standardization from grassroots to global.
Regional Chapters by 2026
International Partners by 2027
Startups Supported by 2028
Govt Projects Targeted by 2026
Evolving National Policies
India’s assistive technology ecosystem has seen a wave of supportive policies in recent years. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) 2016 has provided a strong legal foundation for promoting AT as a necessity, not a privilege. Government ministries, particularly the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, have launched initiatives to support inclusive technology procurement, distribution, and access.
Several national missions, including Make in India and Digital India, have incorporated AT manufacturing as a sub-sector of innovation. The Standardization and Quality Control Division under BIS is currently evaluating product norms for AT devices to ensure safety and efficiency. These policy shifts are fostering trust among funders, manufacturers, and startups alike.
From Pilots to Implementation
Many state governments have moved beyond pilots. Tamil Nadu, for instance, has partnered with research institutes to supply low-cost prosthetics and sensory aids across public hospitals. Delhi and Maharashtra are running government-funded digital accessibility audits for websites and AT devices used in classrooms.
Implementation success depends on partnerships: government agencies, NGOs, research bodies, and private players must align. Public procurement frameworks now allow for emerging tech and smaller vendors to be included in bidding processes. The vision is to shift from donor-led supply to a demand-driven AT ecosystem that integrates with healthcare, education, and public infrastructure.
Summary
- RPWD Act 2016 laid the policy foundation.
- State governments are moving from pilots to scale.
- Standards by BIS ensure device safety.
- Public procurement reforms help startups.
- Partnerships across sectors are critical.
- AT embedded in national missions.
