Centre Proposes Draft Standards for Everyday Products to Ensure Accessibility for People with Disabilities

The Indian government has issued draft accessibility standards for everyday products, such as kitchenware, furniture, and grooming items, to ensure barrier-free access for people with disabilities. The standards are based on the "POUR" approach, requiring products to be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. The draft covers 20 major categories of products and proposes non-negotiable rules such as universal design, braille, tactile features, and clear labeling. Manufacturers are encouraged to integrate smart and assistive technologies into products to ensure usability across different ability groups.

The Indian government has issued draft accessibility standards for everyday products, including kitchenware, furniture, and grooming items, aiming to ensure barrier-free access for people with disabilities. The standards are based on the "POUR" approach, which requires products to be Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust [1].

The draft, prepared by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), covers 20 major categories of products. It proposes non-negotiable rules such as universal design, braille, tactile features, and clear labeling. The standards address a wide range of products, from kitchenware and grooming items to adaptive clothing, medical supplies, and lifts [1].

Manufacturers are encouraged to integrate smart and assistive technologies into products, such as voice-operated appliances, auditory guidance through QR codes, and accessible digital interfaces. The draft also emphasizes that accessibility features should not substantially raise costs. To encourage adoption, it suggests government subsidies, tax breaks, and inclusive distribution channels [1].

The standards mandate large-print labeling, easy-to-open packaging, and simplified instructions to address cognitive accessibility. For people with sensory disabilities, products must incorporate high-contrast text, tactile symbols, braille markings, textured surfaces, and auditory signals. Digital components must be compatible with screen readers, voice controls, and alternative input devices [1].

All products will be subject to mandatory accessibility testing by accredited bodies and rated from Level A to Level AAA. Certifications must be renewed periodically to ensure continued compliance. The draft proposes a strict monitoring framework using AI-driven mechanisms and information-sharing systems. Manufacturers could benefit from GST incentives or deferred payments for accessible designs, while violations could invite fines, product recalls, and public disclosure of non-compliance [1].

The draft standards draw from Indian Standards (BIS, IS 4963, IS 17802, IS 16564, IS 18660), the National Building Code, and global norms such as ADA (US), EAA (EU), and ISO guidelines. They are also designed to align with India's Accessible India Campaign and broader international commitments to disability rights [1].

References:
[1] https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/accessibilitystandards/easy-access-for-persons-with-disabilities-centre-issues-draft-standards-for-everyday-products