This article highlights how issues related to disability are often underreported in Indian media or shaped by outdated ableist narratives or stereotypes due to lack of specific reporting guidelines. Media representation that upholds rights, dignity, and empowerment can make a difference for millions of persons with disabilities in India. National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) in collaboration with Jindal School of Journalism and Communication (JSJC), O P Jindal Global University, and supported by EXL, developed a comprehensive disability reporting toolkit for the Indian media. This toolkit provides journalists with guidelines on respectful language, best practices, and strategies to engage with disability issues thoughtfully, ensuring that this otherwise underreported topic is represented accurately in the media. Adopting the recommended practices will build a media landscape that shifts the narrative away from persons with disabilities being viewed as victims or heroes. 
Shivani Jadhav, Assistant Program Manager, NCPEDP writes for India Development Review (IDR). Read the full article here.
