KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 3 The 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is being marked across the country with rallies, public events and renewed calls for inclusive policies across all levels of government. The day, marked globally since 1992 at the UN's initiative, is being observed this year under the theme 'Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.' Government agencies, civil society groups and organizations working in disability rights held a series of programmes nationwide. In Kathmandu, a morning rally led by Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel marched from Khulamanch to Bhrikutimandap, with participants displaying placards demanding accessible public spaces, an end to discrimination and full recognition of PWDs' rights. Representatives from federal, provincial and local governments, security agencies and Nepal Scouts took part. The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs notes that persons with disabilities continue to face widespread challenges, including higher poverty risks, limited access to decent work, gaps in social protection, restricted autonomy, and unequal access to assistive technologies and accessible environments. President Ramchandra Paudel, in his message issued for the occasion, stressed the need for the effective implementation of constitutional guarantees that ensure PWDs' right to a dignified life. He called for stronger inclusion of persons with disabilities in all state mechanisms and highlighted the urgency of building PWD-friendly infrastructure in offices, schools, public vehicles, parks, temples and private buildings. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as an annual reminder of the continuing barriers faced by millions worldwide.