In India, according to the 2001 census, 41% of the total population is under 34 years old. The National Youth Policy is committed to their all round development and identifies ‘disabled youth’ as a priority focus. Based on data collected through interviews, this paper examines the participation and purposeful engagement of youth with disabilities. The research findings suggest that many of the exclusions faced by these youth were not primarily because of their impairment, but rather were significantly determined by the socio-cultural and economic realities of their lives. Evidence also highlights these young people's strong sense of independence and personal competence.