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Another year, another budget, another disappointment for India’s 80+ million disabled folx < Back Disability, News The heartbreaking reality of budget allocation for disability in India Another year, another budget, another disappointment for India’s 80+ million disabled folx MMS Staff 2 Feb 2025 3-min read Despite making up 7 - 8% of the population, disabled individuals have once again been pushed to the margins of India’s financial priorities. While the Union Budget 2025 boasts record-high spending, disability allocations remain shockingly low — a mere 0.025% of the total budget. Even more concerning? The little that is allocated isn’t even fully used. When numbers speak louder than words India’s total budget grew from ₹30 lakh crore in 2020-21 to ₹50 lakh crore in 2025-26 — a massive 66% increase. Yet, instead of rising with it, the budget for the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) has actually dropped from ₹1,325 crore to ₹1,275 crore. T he Scheme for Implementation of the PwD Act (SIPDA) — which funds accessibility projects across the country — has been slashed to ₹115 crore, even after a Supreme Court ruling in November 2024 (Rajive Raturi judgement) mandated that public spaces and services be made accessible. The numbers paint a grim picture of chronic underfunding: In 2022-23, SIPDA received ₹240.39 crore In 2023-24, it was cut to ₹135.33 crore In 2025-26, it has been further reduced to ₹115 crore This isn’t just a funding cut — it’s a systematic failure to enforce disability rights. Underutilization: The Silent Crisis Even more infuriating is the fact that the budgeted money is not even being fully used. Government records show a shocking underutilization of funds over the past four years: 64% of funds were left unused in 2020-21 86% were unused in 2021-22 79% were unused in 2022-23 93% were unused in 2023-24 What this means: Even the meagre amount allocated for disability support is not being spent. In practical terms, this results in schools, public transport, workplaces, and even government buildings remaining inaccessible — despite legal mandates for inclusion. Disability Pensions: Stuck in 2012 While Prices Skyrocket For millions of disabled people, the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) is their only source of income. Yet, it remains stagnant at ₹290 crore, with the central share still ₹300 per month — an amount unchanged since 2012. The absurdity of this is clear: ₹300 today barely covers a week’s worth of groceries, let alone rent, medical care, or assistive devices. Meanwhile, the pension scheme remains highly exclusionary, covering only 3.8% of disabled people as per the 2011 Census. Mental Health: A Crisis Ignored The Economic Survey has raised concerns about India's growing mental health crisis for two consecutive years. Despite this, the budget for the Telemental Health Programme has been slashed from ₹90 crore to ₹79.60 crore. Given the alarming rise in mental health disorders, suicide rates, and lack of accessible mental healthcare, this cut signals a complete disregard for one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. No Relief for Disabled Job Seekers Employment remains one of the biggest challenges for disabled people in India. Yet, the budget offers little to address this crisis. The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which provides vital work opportunities, has not seen any increase in funding, making it harder for disabled individuals to find employment. New government schemes, such as the Manufacturing & Skill Development Boost, offer potential — but will they prioritize inclusion? Opportunities (If Done Right) Amidst the disappointments, the Finance Minister announced some key initiatives that could benefit disabled people — if they are implemented with inclusion in mind: ✅ Credit Guarantee for MSMEs – Will disabled entrepreneurs get access to capital and business growth opportunities? ✅ Manufacturing & Skill Development Boost – Will disabled workers be given equal access to training and jobs? ✅ Jan Arogya Yojana for Gig Workers – Will disabled gig workers, who often struggle to get insurance, be included? Disability Rights Activists Call for Action The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) has strongly condemned the government's continued neglect of India’s disabled population. On February 10, 2025, NPRD will hold a protest in Delhi, demanding: ✔️ A Right to Pension Act ✔️ An increase in disability pensions from ₹300 to ₹5000 per month ✔️ Expansion of pension coverage to include all disabled individuals under the RPD Act Disability is a human rights issue. India cannot become an economic powerhouse while ignoring 80+ million disabled citizens. Inclusion isn’t just about budget allocations; it’s about dignity, accessibility, and economic participation. Yet, year after year, the Union Budget continues to treat disability rights as an afterthought. Until the government matches words with action, accessibility, employment, and financial security will remain a privilege, not a right, for millions of disabled people in India. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Backlash against Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Raina for insensitive ‘Tauba Tauba’ rendition < Back Disability, News, Media Ex-cricketers criticised for ableist video mocking disabled people Backlash against Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Raina for insensitive ‘Tauba Tauba’ rendition MMS Staff 16 Jul 2024 3-min read Former Indian cricketers Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina are facing backlash from disability rights groups for a video they recently featured in and shared on Instagram. In the video, the trio is seen trying to recreate actor Vicky Kaushal's viral dance step from the song ‘Tauba Tauba’ but with an ableist twist - they are walking with a limp instead of performing the step. The video was posted after the India Champions defeated the Pakistan Champions by five wickets in the World Championship of Legends final on July 13. In the video, the three cricketers are seen limping and holding their backs, apparently to depict the physical toll the matches took on their bodies. The caption read: “Body ki Tauba Tauba ho Gayi in 15 days legends cricket.. Every part of the body is sore. Straight competition to our brothers @vickykaushal09 @karanaujla our version of Tauba Tauba dance. What a SONG.” While it is reasonable that the former cricketers’ bodies were sore from the matches, starring in and putting up a video such as this one is derogatory, ableist, and downright offensive. The ex-cricketers’ actions show a lack of sensitivity and awareness about the experiences of people with disabilities, and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. As public figures and role models, they have a responsibility to be mindful of the impact their actions can have on their fans and society at large. Disability rights activists were quick to criticise the video as insensitive and derogatory. The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) called it “totally disgraceful.” “No words are sufficient enough to condemn such behaviour especially when displayed by people considered national heroes. Such degrading actions only expose their total insensitivity and boorishness,” the NPRD said in a post on X. Aditi Gangrade, CCO of Much Much Spectrum, a Mumbai-based inclusive media company, said in a reel on their Instagram: “Dear Cricketers, you are the champions the masses look up to. You should be advocating for people with disabilities instead of mocking us.” Arman Ali, executive director of the non-profit National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take note of the video. “Disgusting to see India’s top cricketers mocking disability. Shameful and atrocious behaviour from those who are idolised by masses. Shame on them. I urge BCCI to take immediate note of this,” Ali stated. Disability rights activist Dr Satendra Singh emphasised the responsibility of these cricketers as role models and highlighted the need for empathy, especially from Yuvraj Singh, who has battled cancer. “So many people are following them and they will follow these actions, so there needs to be sensitivity. They have no remorse and are making fun of people with disabilities,” Singh told PTI. A police complaint has been filed against Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, and Gurkeerat Mann, accusing them of mocking people with disabilities. A police officer confirmed that the complaint was received and will be forwarded to the cyber cell for further investigation. Amidst the outrage, Harbhajan Singh issued an apology through his official X account, acknowledging the insensitivity. Sadly, the apology nowhere acknowledges the ableism perpetuated by the cricketers. This issue is not just a moral concern but also a legal imperative. It infringes upon Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees every individual’s right to live with dignity. It also violates Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Not to mention it goes against the guidelines established by the Supreme Court just last week for disability portrayals in visual media. “(Creative freedom)... cannot include the freedom to lampoon, stereotype, misrepresent or disparage those already marginalised,” the Supreme Court noted. For those who are wondering what's wrong with the video or why people might be taking offence to this, the video mocks the physical struggles and movements that many people with disabilities experience daily. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes and diminishes the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities. And it’s doubly harmful when influential public figures engage in such mockery because it normalises disrespect and insensitivity towards people with disabilities, and encourages the public to engage in such behaviour. This incident shows that there’s a critical need for sensitivity and respect towards individuals with disabilities, particularly from public figures and role models. It also underscores the necessity for social media platforms to enforce guidelines that prevent the dissemination of derogatory content. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Exposing the flaws in beauty standards, Aastha Shah responds to trolls on her Instagram < Back Health, Gender, News How this Indian creator responded to bullies trolling her for having vitiligo Exposing the flaws in beauty standards, Aastha Shah responds to trolls on her Instagram MMS Staff 25 Jun 2024 4-minute read Aastha Shah, an Indian content creator and vitiligo self-advocate, is using her platform to address the bullying and ostracisation faced by individuals with vitiligo. Today, on World Vitiligo Day, she shared her experiences on her Instagram and emphasised the need for greater awareness and acceptance of this skin condition. Responding to ableist trolls In one of her recent social media posts, Aastha Shah addressed the daily trolling she endures because she looks different owing to her skin condition. Her message was both a celebration of her Vitiligo pride and a message to her trolls and bullies. "Happy World Vitiligo Day Today we celebrate the uniqueness of our beautiful skin as an entire community. Vitiligo is beautiful in every way. This is just 1% of the people making fun of my family and me on a daily basis. The reason I am putting this out there is because vitiligo can affect people psychologically and the least the society can do is not troll us. For all the ones who have vitiligo, my message to you is that let the world put you down and make you feel different, just remember to thrash the stereotype and work towards your dreams because you’re unstoppable👩🏻🤝👨🏾," Shah shared. Addressing misconceptions Shah frequently encounters comments accusing her of seeking sympathy or playing the victim card. She uses these moments to educate others about Vitiligo. “I get a lot of comments about gaining sympathy, playing the victim card, making vitiligo my personality and the fact that I could hide it from the world because I have vitiligo all over my body. First of all, I don’t want sympathy, I want to raise awareness about this skin condition because we have a lot of uneducated people in this world. Secondly, I proudly wear my skin, and thirdly, I want the world to know about it so that even if one person gets inspired, it will make me happy.” The reality of living with vitiligo Vitiligo, as Shah explains, is a skin condition caused by the loss of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin colour. It begins with patches and can spread across the body. Shah has non-segmental vitiligo, which symmetrically appears on both sides of her body. Importantly, it does not affect any internal organs. “Vitiligo is a skin condition which is caused when the melanocytes (cells which give colour to your skin) stop functioning. It appears in patches initially and can eventually spread throughout your body. I have non-segmental vitiligo which symmetrically appears on both sides of the body. It does not affect any organ internally. It’s an autoimmune skin condition and not a skin disease. There is no scientific cure for vitiligo. Now let me celebrate my day happily” Providing support and encouragement When she first shared her story online, Shah received numerous messages from other people with similar lived experiences who were in unsupportive environments. Many expressed feelings of depression and even had s*icidal thoughts because of their vitiligo. Aastha responded to them with compassion and support. “Many parents abandon their children or try to cure their vitiligo using harmful methods. There is no scientifically proven cure for vitiligo. I was disheartened reading such messages and tried to help most of them by talking to them and supporting them.” Myths and facts about vitiligo Myth: Vitiligo is contagious. Fact: Vitiligo is not contagious. It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the pigment cells in the skin leading to the skin losing its colour. Myth: Vitiligo only affects the skin. Fact: While vitiligo primarily affects the skin, it can also impact hair and the inside of the mouth. It does not affect internal organs. Myth: Vitiligo can be cured with certain treatments. Fact: There is no scientifically proven cure for vitiligo. Treatments can help manage the condition but cannot completely cure it. Aastha’s posts frequently attract numerous hurtful comments from trolls, revealing the cruelty and ableism that persist in society. This highlights the shallow nature of beauty norms and the deep-seated ableism, racism, and sexism prevalent among Indian trolls. It also underscores the dire need for improved health awareness in India. Ableism, sexism, and harmful beauty norms perpetuate discrimination and exclusion in society. Ableism marginalises individuals with disabilities, denying them equal opportunities and respect. Sexism enforces gender stereotypes, limiting people's potential based on their gender. Harmful beauty norms create unrealistic standards, fostering judgement and alienation for those who do not conform. Together, these attitudes contribute to a culture of intolerance and inequality. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company < Back Work, News Musk's controversial claim: DEI hiring responsible for IT outage Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company MMS Staff 21 Jul 2024 1-min read While much of the world was reeling from the global IT outage over Thursday and Friday, X CEO Elon Musk did not miss a chance to use the opportunity to take yet another potshot at DEI hiring. American cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which provides cloud workload protection and endpoint security, threat intelligence, and cyberattack response services, was responsible for one of the biggest IT outages in history on Friday, affecting 8.5 million Windows devices, when an update to one of its applications, Falcon, went live with a coding error built in. CrowdStrike has raised millions in funding from Silicon Valley, employs thousands from around the globe, and reportedly services 538 out of the Fortune 1000 companies. Plus they're also big on DEI hiring. CrowdStrike is a Gold Partner of Bright Network's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging panel. Bright Network, a media tech platform, connects graduates from various backgrounds with suitable employers. And as part of this partnership, CrowdStrike says they're committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace. On Friday, following news about the outage, Elon Musk replied to a 2-year-old tweet by CrowdStrike about their association with Bright Network. In it, he simply said: "Not very 'bright' right now, is it?" The replies to his tweet, too, were largely in support of his skewed stance on the matter. DEI initiatives at various US-based companies have recently seen a pushback from upper management, with Tesla reportedly dropping language referencing diversity from its annual shareholder report earlier this year. Microsoft, too, recently laid off a team that was devoted to diversity, equity & inclusion. Shortly after that, tractor company John Deere announced they would do away with nearly all their DEI policies in favour of a quality-based workplace. Other companies who have recently either completely eliminated or reduced the size of their DEI teams include Zoom, Snap, Google, and Meta. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Here are some executive function strategies that will help you with task initiation and inertia < Back Neurodiversity, Media, Disability 7 ways to get things done as an autistic-ADHD adult Here are some executive function strategies that will help you with task initiation and inertia Aditi Gangrade 9 Aug 2024 2-min read One of the first things we’re dealing with every day is what to get done and when. What to start the day with, how to plan stuff so that it gets done in time. And how to go through the day. But so many of us - Autistic-ADHDers and even some neurotypicals - struggle with tasks. There’s a name for it... Executive Function. Planning, prioritising, organising. Filtering your impulses to focus on one thing and eliminate distractions. Task initiation, follow through, and completion. Responsibility management. Attention to detail. Remembering stuff. Executive function is all these things. Call it your brain’s ability to get things done. I don’t know about you, but all too often my brain is not my best friend. So how do I get things done? This is just me, and it might not apply to you so take what helps and leave out the rest! High-interest vs low-interest tasks Before I go on trying to prioritise, I classify things into high-interest and low-interest. This is almost instinctive. Things that are high-interest will come naturally, and things that are low-interest won’t. Things that I have high-interest in require lesser energy and motivation and low-interest stuff requires super higher motivation. So, knowing this makes task segregation through the day easy for me, and I kind of know what to do when. Being self-aware about your spoons So, let me put it this way - spoons are the amount of energy and mind space you have throughout the day. So usually, I have the most number of spoons at the beginning of the day and the least number of spoons at the end of the day. So I typically start my day with low-interest high priority tasks, and end my day with high-interest low priority tasks. Because when something is really interesting for me, I find that I can do it with fewer spoons too. So, overcoming resistance by segregating tasks based on priority, interest, and spoons really helps me! Autistic inertia & incidental attention Some Autistic and ADHD brains feel a lot of inertia doing some tasks. It takes me long to start things, and when I do, I hyperfocus and I forget to take breaks, and end up burning out. There’s also a constant fear of getting something wrong, so I’m tempted to delay a lot of my work. When doing low-interest tasks, sometimes the smallest distractions catch my attention and I lose my focus. This is common to some ADHD-ers, and one way of working through it is by blocking out any external sounds. I use noise cancelling headphones, or I listen to a brown noise video on YouTube. Negative self-talk Getting into negative self-talk spirals is easy when the task at hand is just… boring! The first thing I do in such situations is take a break. I’ll either take a nap, or I'll go take a shower. I’ll basically do anything that soothes my senses. And I find that it’s so much easier for me to focus when my senses are at ease. Building strong relationships with someone who can support you For me, having a sense of security and safety is important. Especially in a new space or someplace where I’m not comfortable. I find that gentle communication and external trust motivate me to do better. And someone getting angry or impatient with me can have the exact opposite effect. You can also body double, which is essentially sharing the same space with someone but doing entirely different activities. For teachers, scaffolding is a great way to support kids with executive function challenges. Routines Executive function challenges might be one reason why so many of us autistic ADHD-ers like routines and sameness. It’s one way to ensure we get some of our things done. I don’t put a time on my to-do list, because each day my capacity of task completion is different, but I’ll have a broad list of things I need to do that day, that week, or even that month. Rewards Building small rewards into your system is a great idea, so you get that dopamine boost in small intervals. I’ll pepper my day with small, healthy snacks that I’ll have after each big task, or I’ll take a couple hours off in the evening if I can push myself to finish off some things early. Executive function challenges are real and difficult to work through. And they can easily be misconstrued as purposeful irresponsible behaviour or insubordination or being incapable of doing something or plain lazy. In reality, it’s much more complicated than that. But initiating this conversation with someone who you see has visible challenges with time and task management is a good way to understand their lived experience. Watch the video: Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. < Back Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Health Living with Dyslexia: My journey as a dyslexic lesbian author in India In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. K Vaishali 31 May 2024 5-min read I’m K Vaishali, the author of 'Homeless: Growing Up, Lesbian and Dyslexic in India.' My journey has been filled with challenges, many of which stem from being diagnosed late with dyslexia and dysgraphia at the age of 20. This diagnosis came after years of struggling to understand why I found certain tasks so difficult. What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a common learning disorder characterized by difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. It affects the brain's ability to process written and spoken language, making it challenging for individuals to decode words and comprehend text. Dysgraphia, often associated with dyslexia, involves difficulties with handwriting and fine motor skills. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, approximately 10-15% of the population is affected by dyslexia, though many remain undiagnosed. My first memory of struggling with dyslexia dates back to the fourth standard when I received very low marks in a math exam. I had left many questions half-answered, a common issue for dyslexic students who may not realize they haven’t finished their tasks. Repeated spelling mistakes, such as writing "cost" as "coast," were frequent and often led to harsh reprimands from teachers and adults who thought I wasn’t trying hard enough. Tasks that were simple for others, like tying shoelaces or fastening my school tie, were huge challenges for me. I often got into trouble at school for these issues, which made me feel even more inadequate and frustrated. A particularly difficult period was in the seventh standard when my family moved from Chennai to Bombay. I had to switch from Tamil to Hindi as my second language. For a dyslexic person, learning multiple scripts—Tamil, English, and Hindi—was incredibly challenging. Tamil and Hindi, being completely different scripts, made this transition even harder. I remember attending tuition classes where my teacher would give me a second standard Hindi textbook. Struggling to read, I would underline long words and ask for their meanings, not realizing that underlining a character’s name was puzzling to my teacher. My undiagnosed dyslexia led to repeated academic failures. I flunked the seventh standard and had to repeat the year. Eventually, I switched to Sanskrit, which started from the basics and allowed me to pass. Myths and misconceptions Dyslexic individuals often face numerous myths and misconceptions, such as: Myth: Dyslexia is a sign of low intelligence. Reality: Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess high creativity and problem-solving skills. Myth: Dyslexic people are lazy or not trying hard enough. Reality: Dyslexic individuals often work harder than their peers to achieve the same level of understanding and proficiency. Myth: Dyslexia can be outgrown. Reality: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can successfully manage its challenges. Despite these challenges, adult life brought its own set of difficulties. I couldn’t complete my bachelor’s degree and struggled with various professional courses. I worked as an auditor but constantly mixed up numbers in balance sheets, a mistake that is unacceptable in that profession. Realizing that accountancy was not for me, I attempted a master’s in economics, only to discover that my difficulties with graphs and numbers persisted. It was only when I pursued a degree in communication that I found a path I could navigate. Writing became my outlet, and I authored my book. My journey has been isolating, with school being an especially unsafe space. Teachers misinterpreted my struggles as an attitude problem, and my dyslexia led to an eating disorder, causing anxiety before exams. I would binge eat months before exams, leading to weight gain and further bullying at school. Eating disorder involve complex relationships with food and body image, often manifesting as behaviors like binge eating, strict dieting, or purging. These are serious mental health conditions that require compassionate understanding and support. They can significantly impact physical health and emotional well-being, but with the right help, recovery is possible. In addition to my struggles with dyslexia, being a lesbian added another layer of complexity. Growing up, I felt different from my friends. They were attracted to boys, and because I wasn’t, I felt isolated. This feeling of not fitting in anywhere severely affected my self-esteem. I masked my true self for years, trying to conform to societal expectations, which brought me no happiness. Now, as an adult, I am more comfortable with my identity. I understand what dyslexia entails and seek help when needed, using various tools to perform my job well. Setting realistic expectations for myself has been a significant step. I often remind myself that just because others can do something doesn’t mean I have to do it the same way. I have learned to embrace my differences, focusing on my strengths rather than my limitations. In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, many children go undiagnosed, and there is a lack of support in schools. It's important for educators and parents to recognize the signs of dyslexia early and provide the necessary support. Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess remarkable creativity and problem-solving skills. Supporting dyslexic individuals Support for dyslexic children and adults can significantly improve their quality of life and academic performance. Effective strategies include: Early diagnosis and intervention: Early identification of dyslexia allows for timely support and accommodations, reducing frustration and academic struggles. Tailored education plans: Individualized education programs (IEPs) can address specific learning needs and incorporate tools such as extra time for tests and the use of assistive technology. Multisensory teaching methods: Techniques that engage multiple senses can enhance learning and retention for dyslexic students. Positive reinforcement: Encouragement and recognition of effort and achievements can boost self-esteem and motivation. Mental health support: Access to counseling and mental health services can help manage the emotional impact of dyslexia and related conditions like anxiety and eating disorders. Buy K Vaishali's book here: https://amzn.in/d/5owZNiu Follow K Vaishali on socials: Instagram X (Twitter) LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy < Back Disability, News Team India’s schedule at the Paralympics 2024 If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy MMS Staff 27 Aug 2024 9-min read Get ready to cheer for Team India at the Paris Paralympics 2024! If you're excited to follow every thrilling moment, we've got you covered with the full schedule—perfect for keeping track of when to tune in and support our incredible athletes. August 30 13:30 - Women’s Discus Throw F55 Final - Karam Jyoti, Sakshi Kasana 14:00 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 - Preethi Pal 16:39 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 Final - Preethi Pal* 00:20 - Men’s Shot Put F37 Final - Manu August 31 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F57 Final - Parveen Kumar September 1 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Round 1 - Rakshitha Raju 15:09 - Men’s Shot Put F40 Final - Ravi Rongali 22:58 - Men’s High Jump T47 Final - Ram Pal, Nishad Kumar 23:08 - Women’s 200m T35 Final - Preethi Pal September 2 13:35 - Men’s Discus Throw F56 Final - Yogesh Kathuniya 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Final - Rakshitha Raju* 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F64 Final - Sumit Antil, Sandeep, Sandip Sanjay Sargar 22:34 - Women’s Discus Throw F53 Final - Kanchan Lakhani 23:50 - Women’s 400m T20 Round 1 - Deepthi Jeevanji 00:10 - Men’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Ajeet Singh, Rinku, Sundar Singh Gurjar September 3 14:26 - Women’s Shot Put F34 Final - Bhagyashri Madhavrao Jadhav 22:38 - Women’s 400m T20 Final - Deepthi Jeevanji* 23:40 - Men’s High Jump T63 Final - Mariyappan Thangavelu, Shailesh Kumar, Sharad Kumar September 4 13:35 - Men’s Shot Put F46 Final - Sachin Sarjerao Khilari, Mohd. Yasser, Rohit Kumar 15:16 - Women’s Shot Put F46 Final - Amisha Rawat 22:50 - Men’s Club Throw F51 Final - Dharambir, Amit Kumar, Pranav Soorma 23:00 - Women’s 100m T12 Round 1 - Simran September 5 15:10 - Women’s 100m T12 Semifinal - Simran* 22:47 - Women’s 100m T12 Final - Simran* 23:49 - Men’s Shot Put F35 - Arvind September 6 13:39 - Women’s 200m T12 Round 1 - Simran 14:08 - Men’s Javelin Throw F54 - Dipesh Kumar 14:47 - Men’s 400m T47 Round 1 - Dilip Mahadu Gavit 15:18 - Men’s High Jump T64 Final - Praveen Kumar 22:30 - Men’s Shot Put F57 Final - Soman Rana, Hokato Hotozhe Sema 22:48 - Women’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Bhavanaben Ajabaji Chaudhary 23:10 - Women’s 200m T12 Semifinal - Simran* September 7 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F41 Final- Navdeep 23:03 - Women’s 200m T12 Final - Simran* 00:29 - Men’s 400m T47 Final - Dilip Mahadu Gavit* Para Judo Indian schedule September 5 13:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Preliminary Rounds 13:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Preliminary Rounds 19:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Final Block* 19:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Final Block* Para Rowing Indian schedule August 30 15:00 - PR3 Mixed Doubles Sculls Heats August 31 14:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Repechages * September 1 14:00 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final B (to determine position) 15:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final A (medal match) Para archery Indian schedule August 29 16:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Sheetal Devi (ST category), Sarita (W2 category) 16:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Harvinder Singh (ST category) 20:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Rakesh Kumar (W2 category), Shyam Sundar Swami (ST category) 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Pooja (ST category) August 30 12:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination August 31 19:00 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 1 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 2 19:00 - Mixed Team Compound Open 1/8 elimination 20:20 - Mixed Team Compound Open Quarterfinal* 21:40 - Mixed Team Compound Open Semifinal* 22:35 - Mixed Team Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:55 - Mixed Team Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 3 12:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination* 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 21:18 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:27 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:44 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 4 12:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination round* 21:00 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 22:08 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:54 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:14 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 5 13:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open 1/8 elimination 18:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 19:50 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Semifinal* 20:45 - Mixed Team Recurve Bronze Medal Match* 21:05 - Mixed Team Recurve Gold Medal Match* Para Shooting Indian schedule August 30 12:30 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 14:45 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:15 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* 17:00 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 17:30 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal* 19:45 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* August 31 13:00 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar 15:30 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Rubina Francis 15:45 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar* 18:15 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Rubina Francis* September 1 13:00 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu 15:00 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 16:30 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu* 18:30 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* September 2 12:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Precision Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 16:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Rapid Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 20:15 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Final - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh* September 3 13:00 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 19:30 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* September 4 13:00 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Qualification - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:45 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Final - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal* September 5 13:00 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu 15:15 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu* Indian Paracanoe Athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 6 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats 13:50 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Heats 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats September 7 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Semifinal* 13:58 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Semifinal* 14:50 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Final A (Medal Round)* 15:14 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final B* 15:22 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final A(Medal Round)* September 8 13:30 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Semifinal* 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Final A* Para Taekwondo Indian schedule August 29 13:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Round of 16 15:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Quarterfinals* 20:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Repechage* 21:34 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Semifinal* 22:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Bronze Medal Contests* August 30 00:04 - Women K44-47 kg Gold Medal Contest* Indian Para Powerlifters at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 4 15:30 - Men’s up to 49kg (Medal Round) 20:30 - Women’s up to 45kg (Medal Round) September 5 22:05 - Men’s up to 65kg (Medal Round) September 6 20:30 - Women’s up to 67 kg (Medal Round) The 17th edition of the Summer Paralympics will take place in Paris, France, from August 28 to September 8 this year. There will be 549 events in 22 sports. Full schedule Event Date Opening Ceremony August 28 Blind Football September 1-7 Boccia August 29 - September 5 Goalball August 29 - September 5 Para Archery August 29 - September 5 Para Athletics August 30 - September 8 Para Badminton August 29 - September 2 Para Canoe September 6-8 Para Cycling Road September 4-7 Para Cycling Track August 29 - September 1 Para Equestrian September 2-7 Para Judo September 5-7 Para Powerlifting September 4-8 Para Rowing August 30 - September 1 Para Swimming August 29 - September 7 Para Table Tennis August 29 - September 7 Para Taekwondo August 29-31 Para Triathlon September 1-2 Shooting Para Sport August 30 - September 5 Sitting Volleyball August 29 - September 7 Wheelchair Basketball August 29 - September 8 Wheelchair Fencing September 3-7 Wheelchair Rugby August 29 - September 2 Wheelchair Tennis August 30 - September 7 Closing Ceremony September 8 *Denotes subject to qualification Much much relate? 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Much Much Spectrum is a Mumbai-based media production company and social impact agency. We specialize in turning brand visions into engaging conversations and impactful campaigns. We have collaborated with giants like Meta, Mahindra, Google, and Netflix to create content that resonates deeply. About us Based in Mumbai, Much Much Media is a boutique media production company and social impact agency with a community of over 50,000 people. We help brands, non-profits, and agencies make important conversations interesting while ensuring their vision and goals are not only met, but resonate deeply with audiences. Why ‘Much Much?’ In colloquial Hindi, "much much" means chatter. We chose the name Much Much Media to embody our mission of making important conversations engaging and enjoyable through our content and media. Based in Mumbai, Much Much Media is a boutique media production company that transforms briefs from brands and agencies into highly loved and binge-worthy social media content, films, campaigns, ads, and more. Our journey Much Much Spectrum was launched three years after Much Much Media as our original content division, aimed at bringing to light the stories of underrepresented communities that are often missing from mainstream media. This initiative was inspired by our founders' discovery of their own neurodivergence, establishing us as India’s first neurodivergent-led media company. Our objective is to bridge the gap in affirming narratives, particularly around subjects like health, disability, and mental health, which have been historically stigmatized in India. These topics are frequently portrayed through lenses of pity, sympathy, or excessive inspiration, often resulting in unaffirmative portrayals. In the last two years, Much Much Spectrum has built a global community of over 50,000 people. We have partnered with various brands and non-profits to tell impactful stories through our platform and community. 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 INCEPTION AS AN AGENCY Launched Much Much Media as a dynamic marketing communications agency. SIGNIFICANT COLLABORATIONS Collaborated with industry giants Meta and Mahindra (Jawa Motorcycles), setting a strong foundation. EXPANDING HORIZONS Delivered bespoke projects for prominent brands including Google, Netflix, Coca-Cola Foundation, HSBC, and United Way Mumbai. INNOVATION AND EXPANSION Founded Much Much Spectrum to co-create original content focusing on health, neurodiversity, and other pivotal social issues. IMPACTFUL CAMPAIGNS Ran four nationwide social impact campaigns, including a significant initiative for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. GROWTH AND COLLABORATION MILESTONES Partnered with the Government of India to raise awareness about disabilities. Our global community reached a robust 50,000 members. Launched the Much Much Spectrum website, enhancing our digital presence and engagement. Our mission At Much Much Spectrum, we focus on creating impactful content and strategies that resonate with diverse cultural contexts while being globally acknowledged. We empower communities and foster collaborations among a wide range of stakeholders in the social impact arena. Our mission is to prioritize lived experiences, community wisdom, and inclusive models in social storytelling. We aim to establish a practice that reflects local realities, democratizes knowledge, centre stages community insights, and integrates research and data with personal narratives. Through compelling content, we strive to engage a broader audience, making important conversations both accessible and captivating. Our values Inclusive Collaborative Ethical Reliable Our founders Aditi Gangrade Chief Creative Officer - Much Much Media Aditi Gangrade is a Gen-Z entrepreneur and filmmaker, renowned for her pioneering work in promoting neurodiversity and disability representation in the media industry. As someone who identifies as Autistic and ADHD, and also experiences PMDD, Aditi co-founded the innovative Mumbai-based studio, Much Much Spectrum, alongside her equally talented neurodivergent partner, Aalap Deboor. This inclusive content, insights, and consultation studio has made a significant impact by establishing a global community of 50,000 individuals focused on mental health, disability, neurodiversity, and gender. Much Much Spectrum, under Aditi's visionary leadership, aims to build India's largest repository of lived experiences through a rich tapestry of digital content and films. Aditi's passion for intersectional storytelling and her commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in media has been a driving force behind her work. Her directorial prowess was recently showcased in the film 'Unmasking Autism,' which was screened at the prestigious Pride Filmtage Bremen Film Festival in Germany. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Aditi worked as a creative producer and director. The inception of Much Much Spectrum, an extension of her media company Much Much Media, was motivated by the personal revelation of neurodivergence she shared with her partner. Much Much Spectrum collaborates with a diverse range of entities including non-profits, brands, corporate firms, and government agencies, striving to actualize disability inclusion. Apart from spearheading all creative and editorial efforts at Much Much Media, Aditi now also takes time out to coach young neurodivergent people starting their careers, as well as consult parents and caregivers on neurodiversity. To book a session with her, click here . Aalap Deboor Chief Executive Officer - Much Much Media Aalap is a writer-director-producer with 15 years in the entertainment industry. After a career in journalism working with Hindustan Times, followed by TV programming & production with MTV & Vh1 (where Aalap produced the shows Coke Studio & Unplugged and led Vh1 India's digital media efforts), and then in digital content & strategy as Head of Music for One Digital Entertainment - Asia's largest creator network - he started Much Much Media, a content & research studio. Aalap has directed and produced 100+ brand campaigns, and developed & successfully implemented data-driven content strategies for 50+ Bollywood music artists, building numerous digital channels and IPs from the ground up, including JioSaavn's Hip Hop Highway - India's first hip hop podcast - and MTV Roots, India's first indie music show. He has directed talent such as AR Rahman, Raftaar, Armaan Malik and Prajakta Koli, and led production on social campaigns, shows, ads and music videos for 50+ global brands including Vodafone, Tinder, Diageo and Nokia, featuring personalities ranging all the way from Shah Rukh Khan and Bill Gates to Russell Peters and Bhuvan Bam, netting over 250m+ views. Our advisors Rahul Jindal Director - Google, India Currently Global Director of Operations & Practices at Google, and an IIT-A alum, Rahul brings close to 20 years of rich experience in management across industries, with global and local roles at such companies as Infosys, CPA Global and Evalueserve. Rahul has been an active part of the disability and neurodiversity discourse. He's a former Executive Sponsor of Google's Disability Alliance, and former head of Google's Employee Resource Group in India. He has been active in raising awareness about disabilities, employing people with disabilities in high-tech & digital marketing roles, and spearheading active efforts in Assistive Tech.

Hybrid work - a long overdue accommodation need. < Back Neurodiversity, Disability, Work Hybrid work: game changer for neurodivergent and disabled folx Hybrid work - a long overdue accommodation need. MMS Staff 25 May 2024 5-min read Hybrid work models have emerged as a significant accommodation for neurodivergent and disabled individuals, offering a supportive environment that allows employees to prioritize their unique needs. This approach aligns with the values of inclusivity and accessibility, creating a more equitable workplace. In urban areas, many employees face the challenge of navigating crowded spaces with limited access to affordable transportation. The daily commute during rush hour can be both physically and mentally exhausting. While these issues affect all workers to some extent, neurodivergent individuals experience heightened challenges. The sensory overload and mental fatigue resulting from commuting can significantly impact their productivity and well-being. Social and communication challenges are another aspect where hybrid work proves beneficial. For individuals with social and communication difficulties, casual interactions with colleagues can be daunting and exhausting, often leading to misunderstandings and perceptions of rudeness. Hybrid work allows these employees to conserve their energy for critical tasks while still providing occasional opportunities for in-person interaction. The sensory environment of traditional office spaces can be overwhelming, with various smells, visuals, textures, temperatures, and sounds contributing to sensory overload. This can lead to attention deficits and burnout. By offering hybrid work options, employers can prioritize employee well-being, allowing individuals to control their sensory input and maintain focus. Research indicates that many neurodivergent and disabled employees are most productive in safe spaces where they can unmask and be themselves. Remote work enables these employees to reduce the need for constant masking, which is often necessary in physical office settings. This flexibility reduces exhaustion and enhances overall productivity. Additionally, the need for self-regulation breaks is critical for maintaining focus and mental health. Short, frequent breaks to step away from the screen or engage in calming activities can significantly improve work output and mental well-being. Employers should recognize that these breaks are essential for maintaining high performance and should not be seen as a lack of productivity. For some employees, a toxic home environment or non-affirming living situation can make working from home challenging. In such cases, the traditional office can serve as a safe and supportive space. Hybrid work offers the flexibility to choose the work environment that best supports the employee's needs, whether that is at home or in the office. How hybrid work models enhance inclusivity and productivity in India Hybrid work models provide several key benefits that enhance inclusivity and productivity for neurodivergent and disabled employees in the Indian context: By working in a controlled environment, employees can manage sensory inputs more effectively, leading to improved concentration and reduced stress. In bustling Indian cities, where noise and pollution are high, this becomes particularly beneficial. Many Indian cities face challenges with accessible public transportation. Hybrid work eliminates the need for daily commutes, making it easier for employees with mobility issues to contribute effectively without the physical strain of travel. Hybrid work allows for the use of various communication tools and methods, catering to individual preferences and reducing the pressure of in-person interactions. This is particularly relevant in India, where different languages and communication styles can add complexity to workplace interactions. Employees can create their ideal work environment at home, utilizing sensory aids and tools that help them stay focused and comfortable. This personalization is crucial for neurodivergent employees who may need specific accommodations that are not feasible in a traditional office setting. Hybrid work provides the flexibility to balance work with personal needs, reducing the risk of burnout and promoting overall well-being. This is particularly important in India, where extended family responsibilities can add to the stress of maintaining a traditional work schedule. The high-paced lifestyle in Indian cities can exacerbate mental health issues. Remote work allows employees to manage their mental health better by providing a familiar and comfortable environment, which is crucial for neurodivergent and disabled individuals. Safe and familiar environments can lead to increased productivity, as employees are able to work without the distractions and stressors of a traditional office setting. Studies have shown that employees working in hybrid models report higher levels of job satisfaction and efficiency. Impact of COVID-19 on work styles and the rise of disabled employees in the workforce The COVID-19 pandemic significantly shifted working styles worldwide, accelerating the adoption of remote and hybrid work models. For many neurodivergent and disabled employees, this shift was not only a necessary response to the pandemic but also a long-overdue accommodation. According to a study by Accenture , 77% of employees report being more productive when they have flexible work options. Additionally, a survey by the American Psychological Association revealed that 82% of employees who have transitioned to remote work due to COVID-19 feel less stress and higher job satisfaction compared to their previous in-office work experiences. Additionally, the same survey found that 70% of disabled employees reported improved work-life balance and productivity when working remotely. The increased flexibility and accessibility offered by hybrid work have also led to a rise in the employment of disabled individuals. A report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that the employment rate for people with disabilities increased by 7.8% from 2020 to 2021, a significant jump attributed to the widespread adoption of remote work. So here’s what you can do if you’re an employer, co-worker, or a disabled employee: For employers: Offer hybrid work options that allow employees to choose their work environment based on their needs. Ensure these policies are well-communicated and supported by management. Design office areas with adjustable lighting, quiet zones, and noise-canceling options. Provide access to sensory tools such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget devices, and weighted blankets. Use project management tools and platforms that facilitate asynchronous communication. This allows employees to respond at their own pace, reducing stress and improving clarity. Provide training sessions for managers and staff on neurodiversity and disability awareness. Topics could include effective communication strategies, recognizing sensory overload, and supporting mental health. Implement policies that allow for short, frequent breaks throughout the day without stigma. Create designated relaxation areas within the office for employees to decompress. For co-workers: Ask colleagues about their preferred communication methods and respect their choices, whether it’s through email, instant messaging, or face-to-face meetings. Avoid wearing strong perfumes, minimize loud conversations, and be considerate of shared spaces. Understand that some colleagues may need to wear headphones or use other sensory aids. Be understanding if a colleague needs to work different hours or take additional breaks. Flexibility can significantly enhance their productivity and well-being. For disabled or neurodivergent employees: Communicate your requirements for accommodations and hybrid work arrangements to your employer. Be clear about what helps you work most effectively. Incorporate regular breaks and sensory-friendly practices into your workday to maintain focus and well-being. Use tools and apps that help manage time and sensory input. Connect with other neurodivergent and disabled individuals for mutual support and share best practices for navigating the workplace. Consider joining or forming an employee resource group. In conclusion, hybrid work is a crucial element in creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. By allowing employees to prioritize their accommodations, organizations can foster an environment where everyone can thrive. Tell us your lived experience as a neurodivergent, disabled, or queer person at work. Let’s chat in the comments below. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS