Around the world, approximately 1.3 billion individuals live with some form of disability,  making this one of the largest and most diverse demographic groups globally. In India,  millions of persons with disabilities (PwDs) continue to encounter obstacles in areas  such as education, employment, mobility, and social engagement. These challenges  often arise not from the disabilities themselves, but from systems, environments, and  institutions that lack inclusivity. 

Fortunately, this landscape is slowly but surely transforming. Technological innovations  are redefining the concept of inclusion, allowing PwDs to experience greater  independence, dignity, and opportunities. Assistive Technology (AT) is emerging as a  pivotal force in this change. Currently, around 2.5 billion people worldwide require  assistive products, a figure projected to increase to 3.5 billion by 2050 due to ageing  populations and health issues related to lifestyle. Despite this rising demand, many still  struggle to access suitable assistive solutions. When technology is crafted with  empathy and effectively scaled, it transcends being merely a tool; it becomes a  powerful enabler of participation and economic empowerment. 

How Technology Is Redefining Accessibility 

The landscape of assistive technology is evolving at an impressive pace. Innovations in  artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality, and  immersive digital platforms are creating levels of accessibility that were unimaginable  just a decade ago. AI-driven tools now assist visually impaired individuals in navigating 

their surroundings, reading text, identifying objects, and recognising people in real-time,  thereby enhancing both safety and autonomy. 

Smart prosthetics, AI-enhanced learning platforms, intelligent mobility aids, alternative  communication devices, and virtual reality-based rehabilitation systems are  revolutionising lives across various disability segments—be it physical, sensory, or  cognitive. However, innovation alone is not enough. Without inclusive design and  equitable access, these technologies risk serving only a small segment of society. 

Persistent Barriers to Assistive Technology Adoption 

Three significant challenges continue to hinder the widespread adoption of assistive  technologies. Affordability is a primary concern, as many advanced solutions are priced  beyond the reach of most users. Availability is hampered by fragmented distribution networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Additionally, awareness remains  a barrier, fuelled by stigma, lack of information, and inadequate training for both users  and caregivers. Tackling these issues necessitates coordinated efforts among  government, industry, civil society, and local communities. 

India’s Roadmap for Scaling Assistive Technology 

India is making steady progress in establishing a robust framework to promote AT  adoption. A proposed National Strategic Framework for Assistive Technology, built  around the four pillars of Products, Provision, Personnel, and Policy, aims to empower  PwDs to make informed and independent choices. Effective policy implementation can  help mainstream AT and extend its reach beyond niche applications. 

The AT startup ecosystem in India is also gaining traction. Incubation centres,  hackathons, sandbox environments, and specialised university programmes are  fostering innovation focused on affordability, contextual relevance, and user-centric  design. These startups are developing solutions that are not only tailored to Indian  realities but also hold global significance. 

Investment, Access, and Infrastructure 

To scale AT innovation, sustained investment is crucial. This can be achieved through  dedicated AT funds, early-stage grants, blended finance, and working capital support.  AI-driven assistive solutions, which offer personalisation and real-time adaptability, are  expected to play a significant role in the next phase of growth. 

Market access is equally vital. Digital AT marketplaces, Inclusion Bays, and integration  with platforms like GeM are helping to broaden reach across both urban and rural India.  Additionally, constructing accessible physical and digital infrastructure, inclusive  transport systems, and barrier-free public spaces is essential for long-term impact.

The Role of Corporates and the Global Opportunity 

Corporates and Global Capability Centres (GCCs) have a crucial role to play in  promoting inclusive hiring practices, creating accessible workplaces, funding AT  research, and collaborating with startups and NGOs. These initiatives can unlock a vast,  underutilised talent pool while reinforcing India’s inclusive growth agenda. 

With over 500 assistive technology startups, India is well-positioned to spearhead the  global AT movement through reverse innovation—developing affordable, scalable  solutions for domestic needs that can influence accessibility models worldwide. As the  nation strides towards Amritkaal 2047, India has the potential to emerge as the world’s  largest hub for assistive technology, driven by AI-led innovation, scalability, and a  profound commitment to inclusion.