Nepal has half a million differently-abled people: UNICEF

Two per cent population of Nepal are living with some kind of disability, the United Nations Children's Fund said today as it called for providing greater opportunities to differently-abled people and children to help them reach their full potential.

People with disabilities are active members of society and when given right opportunities, they can significantly contribute in its betterment, Minister for Women and Children Tham Maya Thapa said during a conference 'Disability in Nepal: Working together for an inclusive society' here.

The Constitution of Nepal clearly prohibits all kinds of discriminations on the grounds of disability and has a provision for equal access to differently-abled people to basic services and rights including healthcare, education, social assistance and employment, she said.

"People and children living with disabilities face huge barriers in reaching their full potential and experience the worst forms of discrimination," said Rurik Marsden, head of the UK's Department for International Development (DFID) Nepal.

Two per cent population of Nepal -- about half a million -- are living with some kind of disability, according to data.

"The conference draws on the existing data, evidence and initiatives by and for people and children living with disabilities.

"The conference will contribute to further strengthening understanding of disability issues in Nepal and fostering commitment to address them as an integral part of all sectors and areas of development in Nepal," UNICEF Representative to Nepal Tomoo Hozumi said.