Lucknow, 3 Dec (HS): On International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025,

Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust remarked, “As the world

observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, we are called

to re-examine how our societies are built, who they include, and who they leave

behind. This year’s theme highlights the collective responsibility to create

environments where accessibility is intentional, participation is universal,

and leadership from persons with disabilities is not the exception but the

norm. At a time when conversations on equity, resilience, and sustainable

development are reshaping global priorities, disability inclusion stands at the

center of meaningful progress. For CBM India Trust, this day reinforces their

commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not only

beneficiaries of development but active architects of change. With this vision,

they reflect on the journey ahead, one that demands systemic transformation,

shared accountability, and unwavering respect for every individual’s dignity

and rights.”

Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust, said:On

the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, CBM India Trust honors

the leadership, resilience, and powerful contributions of persons with

disabilities who continue to shape our society in transformative ways. This

year’s global focus on building disability-inclusive societies reminds us that

no society can claim progress until every person can participate fully and with

dignity. At CBM India Trust, we believe inclusion is an act of justice

and that a truly inclusive society is one where persons with disabilities

influence policies, lead institutions, and drive solutions that impact their

lives. Their lived experiences are essential knowledge needed for creating

systems that are equitable and future-ready.

We, CBM India Trust, reaffirm our commitment to advancing

accessible and inclusive healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities,

and ensuring that persons with disabilities are at the center of

decision-making. Through our programs, partnerships, and community-driven

initiatives, we are working to dismantle barriers, redesign systems, and build

pathways that empower individuals to thrive.

Sustainable progress happens when society shifts from viewing

persons with disabilities through a lens of limitation to recognizing them as

co-creators of equitable and sustainable development. When their voices guide

public life, when accessibility becomes non-negotiable, and when inclusion

becomes a shared responsibility, we move closer to a world where everyone can

live and contribute with autonomy and agency.

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities,

institutions, businesses, and communities must join together in building a

society that is inclusive by design, one where progress is measured not only by

economic indicators, but by how well we honor every person’s right to

opportunity, dignity, and participation.”

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi