May 13, 2026

Our Story

About Rainbow Disability Nepal (RDN)

Rainbow Disability Nepal (RDN) began in 2019 as a
grassroots network dedicated to the disabled
LGBTQIA+ community. In 2022, it reached a historic
milestone by formally registering as Indreni
Apangata Nepal (Rainbow Disability Nepal). It
stands as the first non-governmental organization in
Nepal led by and for queer people with disabilities.
RDN is a pioneering force in Nepal, addressing the
unique challenges of intersectionality and multi
Identity, specifically focusing on the rights of
LGBTQIA+ individuals living with disabilities and
those living with HIV or more spectrum. While our
primary focus is ensuring human rights for the multi
identity population across Nepal, through
strengthening the psychological and economic
resilience of disabled LGBTQIA+ youth and creating
accessible pathways to education, employment, and
leadership roles that were previously out of reach,
ensure specialized programs that build confidence
and technical skills within the community. RDN is
constantly engaging persistently with government
stakeholders and community leaders to secure legal
and social rights. RDN is actively expanding its
advocacy to the international stage

Our goal

Purpose, direction, and commitment to inclusion.

To transform intersectional advocacy into tangible impact by championing the rights, dignity, and visibility of Queer people with Disabilities (QDs) in Nepal.

A society where queer people with disabilities lead with pride and power through intersectional advocacy, visibility, and universal accessibility.

Inclusive Policy Advocacy
Economic and Psychological Empowerment
Radical Visibility and Accessibility

Who We Work With

RDN works on intersectional issues affecting:

Queer Persons with Disabilities (QD)
Persons with disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA++
Disabled persons living with HIV
Disability and LGBTQIA++ youth communities
Human Rights

Why Our Work Matters

The issues faced by Queer Persons with Disabilities are different from those faced by LGBTQIA++ persons without disabilities. Both groups face discrimination in heteronormative societies, but QDs experience double exclusion due to disability and sexual/gender identity.

Many QDs feel excluded from both disability spaces and LGBTQIA++ spaces, leading to isolation and a lack of belonging. RDN works to bring these hidden issues into the mainstream and ensure their voices are represented.

Our Areas of Work

RDN works in multiple sectors, including:

HIV and SRHR awareness
Education and awareness on sex, gender, and sexuality
Human rights advocacy
SDG inclusion
Disability technology
Youth empowerment programs
Proposal development and administrative support
Advocacy with government officials and stakeholders

Need for Awareness in Society

The general hetro-societies as well as the LGBTQIA++ communities need to be aware about the rising issues of Queer Persons with Disabilities / Queer Disability (QD) and that they also should be given equal opportunities of empowerment and inclusion in the society. Issues of Queer Persons with Disabilities / Queer Disability (QD) need to be brought up in the mainstream human-rights programs too. It will surely empower Disabled LGBTQIA++ youths psychologically and economically to live a better life through awareness, advocacy as well as vocational training programs and will definitely leave a mark in establishing Acceptance & Inclusion of them in the society.

Future Plans

Mission RDN

Lobby and Advocacy Plans

Besides these all, Rainbow Disability Nepal have set the plans in motion to do the lobby and advocacy with concerned government stakeholders and people related to this minor community to elevate this movement of Queer Persons with Disabilities / Queer Disability (QD) people to national and international level.

RDN aims to empower Queer Persons with Disabilities / Queer Disability (QD) youths psychologically and economically by establishing Acceptance and Inclusion of Queer Persons with Disabilities / Queer Disability (QD) in Nepal.

Our Success Stories

Khagendra Rana

Rainbow Disability Nepal (RDN) found Khagendra during community outreach and started supporting him with basic needs and education. With this support and a safe environment, Khagendra slowly rebuilt his confidence. Today, he is more confident and involved in the community, and he is beginning to speak up for the rights of queer persons with disabilities. His story shows how the right support at the right time can help someone move forward with hope.

Jyoti Budhathoki

Jyoti Ji who identify herself as a lesbian with a physical disability, was struggling to manage her medical needs and continue her education due to limited support. Rainbow Disability Nepal (RDN) helped her with medical care and education support, making her situation more stable. With this support, Jyoti is now more confident and hopeful about her future.

Naina Rai

RDN support to cover room expenses and provide emergency relief support to a disabled transwoman and have been guiding her to make disability card.

Sanaya Bal

A young transwoman student, was struggling to continue her higher secondary education due to financial difficulties. With support from Rainbow Disability Nepal (RDN), she is now able to continue her studies. She is moving ahead with more confidence and hope for her future.