The Indian Railways has officially replaced the term "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability" on railway concession certificates. This change, implemented from June 1st, 2025, follows directives issued by the court of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD).

The decision came after disability rights advocate, Pankaj Maru, filed a complaint with the CCPD regarding the terminology used in his daughter's concession certificate, specifically the description “mansik roop se vikrit”. Maru had submitted his daughter's Unique Disability ID card, which correctly described her disability as an intellectual disability, aligning with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.

The CCPD emphasized the importance of using respectful and accurate language to ensure the dignity of individuals with disabilities. In its final order, the CCPD noted that the Railway Board had issued an instruction on May 9th, 2025, to replace "mentally retarded persons" with "persons with intellectual disability".

While welcoming the change, disability activists have pointed out that some "objectionable" words remain in the revised concession form. Activists like Satendra Singh, director and professor at the University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, noted that terms like "handicapped" and "divyangjan" are still used. Singh stated that the Railways are still engaged in piecemeal corrections and that the Supreme Court has already issued a handbook on inclusive language.

The CCPD has recommended that the Railways review all existing forms and documents to identify and correct similar outdated terminology and ensure that old stationery is no longer used for certifications. This move aligns with a circular issued by the board in 2018, which replaced terms like "blind," "deaf and dumb," and "physically challenged" with the terms prescribed in the RPwD Act. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act) aims to ensure the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. The Act defines various disabilities, including intellectual disability, and provides for the issuance of disability certificates. These certificates enable individuals with disabilities to access various facilities, concessions, and benefits offered by the government and non-governmental organizations.

The Ministry of Railways provides concessions to passengers, including those with disabilities, to make rail travel more affordable. These concessions are available to various categories of disabled individuals, including those with intellectual disabilities, and may require an escort. To avail of these concessions, individuals must present a disability certificate issued by a competent authority.

The Indian Railways has a medical department committed to providing medical facilities to its employees, including retired personnel. The department also provides medical certificates for various purposes, such as availing leave or claiming compensation. The Indian Railway Medical Manual (IRMM) provides guidelines and standards for medical examinations and certifications.

This amendment reflects a broader shift towards using more respectful and inclusive language when referring to people with intellectual disabilities.