Empowering Lives through Innovation: OPAI Advocates for Policy Recognition of Prosthetics and Orthotics in India

On International Prosthetics & Orthotics Day, OPAI Delhi Chapter Calls for Government Support and Inclusion in Policy-Making

Press Meet Highlights Demand for Advanced Assistive Technologies and Accessible Rehabilitation Services

New Delhi, November 9, 2024:

In honor of International Prosthetics and Orthotics Day, the Delhi Chapter of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Association of India (OPAI) organized a 1-Day Conclave at Hindi Bhawan. The event, aimed at advancing support for prosthetics and orthotics (P&O) professionals, brought attention to the need for government recognition of the P&O field in policymaking, including in the Paralympic selection process. This event underscored the critical role that prosthetic and orthotic technology plays in empowering individuals with disabilities.

Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, emphasized the need for reliable data to better understand the spectrum of disabilities in India. Citing the Unique Disability ID (UDID) data, he noted, “Over 95% of registered cases show a disability of 40% or more. By making district-level data available on 21 types of disabilities, we can foster solutions grounded in accurate information.”

Shri Vikash Trivedi, Member Secretary of the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), underscored the importance of professional education and regulation in P&O practices, advocating for the elimination of unqualified practices in the field. “To build a robust system, we need well-trained professionals in every institution,” he remarked.

Dr. Ravinder Singh, Senior Scientist at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), emphasized the need for dedicated research and development within prosthetic and orthotic technologies. His comments stressed the impact that innovation in assistive technology could have on improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

In a call for greater awareness, Dr. Rupali Roy, Additional Director General, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), emphasized the inclusion of Prosthesis, orthosis and Assistive devices in various helath insurance and govt Suppoted Insurance schemes. Making quality assistive devices affordable & accessible for each and every one by integrating it with health care system is need of the hour.

Dr. Satya Prakash Sangwan Vice President Paralympics Committee of India expressed the Role of Prosthetist and Orthotist are vital for para-athletes those are using ptosthesis and orthosis . He assured that he will try to ensure P&O professionals will be included in various Paraatheletic delegation including Paralympics to support and enhance the performance of our para-athletes.

The conclave, hosted by OPAI’s Delhi Chapter, highlighted the urgent need for government support in promoting a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation services, assistive technology advancements, and policy inclusivity. Through this initiative, OPAI continues to work towards a future where every individual with disabilities has access to the support they need for a dignified and empowered life.