India observes the International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) today with the global community, reaffirming its commitment to recognising and protecting the rights of persons with albinism. June 13 is marked as International Albinism Awareness Day, following a United Nations resolution in 2014, and aims to combat widespread discrimination, raise awareness, and promote the inclusion of individuals living with albinism.
Historically, during the mid-2000s, there were abundant attacks on people with albinism, calling them not normal human beings. There were superstitions that they possessed magic powers. So in response to that, the Tanzania Albinism Society began advocating for their rights, marking the first Albino Day in 2006, which later became National Albinism Day.
Lack of melanin leads to a rare genetic condition called albinism. Melanin is a required pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. Deficiency of this pigment often leads to visual impairment and increased risk of skin cancer. Albinism is non-contagious and present from birth; people with albinism in India frequently face social stigma, exclusion, and myths surrounding their appearance.
Comparatively, awareness around albinism in India is low, and access to essential services such as dermatological care, protective sunscreen, and low-vision support is inadequate. According to doctor reports, many children with albinism drop out of school due to bullying or lack of accommodation for their visual needs. They suggest that what they need most is understanding, not isolation.
This year’s global theme, ‘Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives,’ resonates strongly in India, where increased sun exposure and limited access to protective gear put many individuals with albinism at risk.
On the occasion, several NGOs, including the Albinism India Foundation and Voice of Albinism, are hosting awareness drives, panel discussions, and health camps in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad to advocate for better policy support and social inclusion.
