Q1. What do you mean by disability? Discuss historical perspective of disability in the Indian context.
- Disability is interaction between impairment and societal barriers (social model).
- Ancient India linked disability to Karma or divine will; family/charity care.
- Colonial period introduced segregative medical institutions and custodial care.
- PWD Act, 1995 was India's first comprehensive law for disabled persons.
Answer: As per the course MVEI-011, **disability** is primarily understood not merely as an individual's impairment, but as a complex phenomenon reflecting the interaction between a person's body functions or structures and the societal barriers that prevent their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others. This perspective aligns with the social model of disability, moving beyond a purely medical definition. From a medical model standpoint, disability is seen as a proble...