Delhi promotes sign language training
Delhi's Directorate of Education promoted sign language training under their inclusion initiative, breaking communication barriers in classrooms.
The Delhi Directorate of Education's initiative aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 and the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This includes providing specialized training in Braille and sign language. Schools are also required to maintain records of disability certificates and conduct regular student assessments. The Delhi government is actively involving Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in training and capacity-building activities in schools. This decision follows recommendations from the Directorate of Education (DoE) to improve the school environment for students and teachers. The SCERT has encouraged District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs) to include PwDs in content development and training programs. The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) plays a key role in ISL research, development, and training, offering various courses and certifications for ISL teachers. NCERT has also developed a Basic ISL Course in collaboration with ISLRTC to address communication barriers. The ISLRTC also conducts workshops to upgrade the knowledge and skills of Indian Sign Language for special educators. The government launched Channel 31 on DTH dedicated to Indian Sign Language (ISL) training for hearing-impaired students, special educators, interpreters, and relevant organizations on December 6, 2024. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting and standardizing ISL across India to create a more inclusive educational environment. The channel is available through DD Free dish and internet applications.
