Laws and Legislation for Children with Special Needs PDF

LAWS AND LEGISLATION FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS The acts, schemes and institutional provisions "There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more." - Robert M. Hensel  CONTE...

LAWS AND LEGISLATION FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS The acts, schemes and institutional provisions "There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more." - Robert M. Hensel  CONTENT Sl. Topic Page Number Done by No. 1. Introduction 3 Jasmine 2. Education laws 3 Abhilipsa 3. Health laws 3 Shivani 4. Acts 4.1 The Rights of person 4 Abhilipsa with disabilities, 2016 4.2 The national trust for 4 Jasmine welfare of persons with autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and multiple disabilities act, 1999 4.3 National Policy For 5 Jasmine Persons with Disabilities, 2006 4.4 The Rehabilitation 6 Shivani Council of India Act, 1992 5. Schemes 5.1 Disha, Nirmaya 7, 8 Jasmine 5.2 Sambhav, Prerna 9 Abhilipsa 5.3 Badhte Kadam, 9, 10 Shivani Gharaunda 6 Institutions 6.1 CBSE, RCI, UGC, 11-14 Jasmine NIEPMD 6.2 NIEPVD, CIET, 14-15 Abhilipsa NCERT, KVS 6.3 JNCASR, IIT, 15-17 Shivani SVNIRTAR, NIEPID 6.4 Conclusion 17 Abhilipsa 7. References 18 2  1. INTRODUCTION The Article 1 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights mentions that, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” The World Health Organisation estimates that 15% of people worldwide have a handicap, and more than 80% of those people reside in low- and middle-income nations. Despite having a population of nearly 1.36 billion, more than 2.2 percent of Indians suffer from a severe physical or mental handicap. In today’s progressive world, it is essential to exercise inclusion in as many fields of life as possible. Inclusion can be defined as, “as a sense of belonging: feeling respected, valued for who you are; feeling a level of supportive energy and commitment from others so that you can do your best work. (Miller and Katz) Hence, Laws and legislations come into picture, in context of children with special needs, these are designed to protect the rights and ensure the well-being, education, and development of children with disabilities. These laws often mandate inclusive education, accessibility, non- discrimination, and provide for special services and accommodations where children with special needs can thrive and reach their full potential. By outlining specific rights and protections, laws aim to prevent discrimination, ensure access to necessary services like healthcare and education, and foster environments where children with special needs can thrive and reach their full potential. Legislation also serves to guide institutions and individuals in providing tailored support and accommodations, ultimately promoting a more equitable society for all children, regardless of their abilities or challenges. 2. Education Laws for Children with special needs - All citizens, including those with disabilities, have the right to education. - Article 29(2) of the Constitution prohibits denying any citizen access to state-run educational institutions or state-funded assistance based on religion, race, caste, or language. - Article 45 of the Constitution requires that all children, including those with disabilities, receive free and compulsory education until the age of 14. - No child can be refused admission to state-run educational institutions or state-funded aid based on religion, race, caste, or language. 3. Health Laws for children with special children 1. Article 47 of the constitution imposes on the Government a primary duty to raise the level of nutrition and standard of living of its people and make improvements in public health – particularly to bring about prohibition of the consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to one’s health except for medicinal purposes. 2. The health laws of India have many provisions for the disabled. Some of the Acts which make provision for health of the citizens including the disabled may be seen in the Mental Health Act, 1987. 3 4. THE ACTS FOR CHILDREN IN SPECIAL NEEDS 1. THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (RPWD) ACT, 2016  The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act was enacted in 2016 and became effective on April 19, 2017.  This Act replaced the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act of 1995. Objective:  To ensure that individuals with disabilities can live with dignity, free from discrimination, and with equal opportunities. Rights Offered under the act:  Section 3(1): Persons with disabilities have the right to equality, dignity and respect for integrity.  Section 4 mandates that the government and local authorities must ensure that women and children with disabilities have equal rights as others. It also states that all children with disabilities have the right to express their views on matters affecting them, with appropriate support provided based on their age and disability.  Section 5(2) Persons with disabilities have the right to live in the community.  Section 6 of the Act mandates the government to implement measures to prevent torture and inhumane treatment of persons with disabilities. It also stipulates that no individual with a disability may be subjected to research without their free and informed consent.  Further, the Act has 14 more sections that address the rights against violence, voting rights, equal opportunity for justice, for skill development and employment etc.  Especially Section 16 is important as it outlines the educational rights for children that describe the responsibilities of an institution, promoting inclusive education. 2. THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR THE WELFARE OF PERSONS WITH AUTISM, CEREBRAL PALSY, MENTAL RETARDATION AND MULTIPLE DISABILITIES ACT, 1999 Was instituted by the Government of India and received presidential assent on December 30, 1999. The Act was implemented under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, specifically through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) – term officially adopted by the Indian government to refer to persons with disabilities. The term was introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, replacing the previously used term “Viklangjan” (disabled). The primary objective of this legislation is to empower individuals with the disabilities to live independently and integrate into society by ensuring their rights and providing necessary support. 4 Beneficiaries The beneficiaries of this Act are individuals with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities. These categories include a wide spectrum of conditions that affect cognitive, physical, and emotional development. The Act aims to provide comprehensive support to these individuals, addressing their unique needs and challenges. Criteria for Availing the Scheme/Policy 1. Diagnosis: The individual must be diagnosed with one of the conditions covered under the Act—Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, or Multiple Disabilities. 2. Registration: The individual or their guardian must register with the National Trust. This involves providing medical certificates and other necessary documentation to confirm the disability. 3. Legal Guardianship: For individuals who cannot make decisions independently, a legal guardian must be appointed. The Act outlines the process for appointing guardians to ensure that the rights and welfare of the person with disabilities are safeguarded. Key Features of the Policy 1. Board and Administrative Structure: The Board consists of a chairperson and members who serve a term of three years. The central government is responsible for initiating the appointment process at least six months before the tenure’s expiration to ensure continuity. 2. Protection and Security: The Act includes provisions to ensure the protection of children with disabilities, in cases where their parents or guardians pass away. It promotes measures to safeguard their property and financial interests, ensuring they are not exploited or neglected. 3. Inclusivity and Equal Opportunities: The Act aims to facilitate equal opportunities for PwD , promoting their integration into society through education, employment, and social activities. It advocates for an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities can lead dignified and productive lives. 4. Awareness and Training Programs It promotes the dissemination (circulation) of information about disabilities and the importance of early intervention and continuous support. Training programs aim to equip caregivers, teachers, and healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to provide effective care and support. 5. Financial Security and Support Provisions for establishing a trust fund to support various welfare programs. These programs focus on providing financial assistance, vocational training, and employment opportunities to enhance the economic independence of PwDs. Continuous amendments and updates, such as the 2018 Amendment Bill, reflect the evolving understanding and commitment to addressing the challenges faced by this vulnerable population. 5 3. NATIONAL POLICY FOR PERSON WITH DISABILITIES, 2006 The National Policy was adopted in February 2006. It was instituted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. Beneficiaries All persons with disabilities, including those with physical, intellectual, developmental, sensory, and multiple disabilities. Special focus is given to children with disabilities. Criteria for Availing the Policy: Individuals must be identified as having a disability, which includes physical, intellectual, sensory, and multiple disabilities. The identification and certification of disability are typically done by recognized medical authorities as per the guidelines provided by the government. Key Features of the Policy - Prevention and Early Detection of Disabilities: Through programs like immunization, maternal and child health care, and public awareness campaigns. Emphasizes early detection and intervention to minimize the impact of disabilities. - Education: Ensures free and compulsory education for children with disabilities up to the age of 18 years. Encourages inclusive education systems and provides for special schools where necessary. Provides scholarships, transport facilities, and assistive devices to facilitate education for CSN. - Sports, Recreation, and Cultural Activities: Ensures access to sports, recreation, and cultural activities for children with disabilities. Provides for the establishment of sports complexes and facilities for promoting sports among CSN - Rehabilitation: Physical rehabilitation, which includes early detection and intervention, counseling & medical interventions and provision of aids & appliances. Development of rehabilitation professionals. Educational rehabilitation including vocational education and Economic rehabilitation for a dignified life in society. - Women and Children with Disabilities: Focuses on the special needs of women and CSN. Ensures protection against exploitation and abuse, and provides access to education, healthcare, and social security for women(girl child )and CSN - Promotion of Non-Governmental Organizations 4. REHABILITATION COUNCIL OF INDIA ACT The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) was set up as a registered society in 1986. On September 1992 the RCI Act was enacted by Parliament and it became a Statutory Body on 22 June 1993. The Act was amended by Parliament in 2000 to make it more broad-based. The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995 has changed the earlier concept of welfare of the disabled to the demand of equal opportunities and empowerment. The Promise of access to education to every child with disability casts a special. Responsibility on the Council to provide trained manpower for their educational, vocational and social integration. 6 Objectives of the Council  To regulate the training policies and programmes in the field of rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.  To bring about standardization of training courses for rehabilitation professionals/personnels dealing with persons with disabilities.  To prescribe minimum standards of education and training in the field of rehabilitation uniformly throughout the country.  To regulate these standards in all training institutions uniformly throughout the country.  To recognize foreign degrees/diplomas/certificates in the field of rehabilitation awarded by Universities/Institutions on reciprocal basis.  To maintain Central Rehabilitation Register of professionals/ personnel possessing the recognised rehabilitation qualifications.  To collect information on regular basis, on education and training in the field of rehabilitation of persons with disabilities from institutions in India and abroad.  To encourage continuing rehabilitation education by way of collaboration with organizations working in the field of rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.  To promote research in rehabilitation and special education. 5. SCHEMES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 1. DISHA (Early Intervention and School Readiness Scheme) The primary goal is to prepare children with disabilities for inclusive education and enhance their development through various intervention Provision of Therapies, trainings and providing support to family members. Batch size 20 Children with special needs The Registered Organization (RO) gets in touch with paediatricians or experts in similar field 1. Early Intervention Services: To address developmental delays and disabilities. Services include physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and special education. 2. School Readiness: The scheme prepares children for inclusive education by developing their social, communication, and cognitive skills. 3. Collaboration: The scheme collaborates with NGOs, voluntary organizations, and other stakeholders to implement and manage Disha centres. 4. Enrollment: Parent/legal guardian of CSN have to come together at the Disha Centre. Then the center will conduct a Disability Assessment Test with the help of a Therapist or Counsellor. 5. Staffing: Provision of Therapies, trainings and providing support to family members. 6. Day Care: Registered organization provides day-care facilities to CSN for at least 4 hours in a day (between 8 am to 6Pm) along with age specific activities. Day care is open for at least 21 days in a Month. The minimum attendance required for a PwD in the Disha center is 15 days per month For the National Trust to fund the PwD. 7  7. Counselling: Counselling and guidance especially for Activities for Daily Living (ADL) must be provided to parents or guardians of CSN with regular follow-ups by RO to ensure that parents or guardians attend a minimum number of counselling sessions. 8. Transport Facilities: Registered Organisations provides transportation facilities to CSN in case it is mutually suitable for both 9. Assessment and Evaluation: By experts in the related field on a regular basis to understand their individual needs and also to monitor the progress of the children with special needs. 2. NIRAMAYA (Health Insurance Scheme): The scheme is available in the entire country. Facility for OPD (Out patient department) treatment including the medicines, pathology, diagnostic tests, etc, - Regular Medical checkup for non-ailing disabled, corrective Surgeries for existing Disability including congenital disability etc., - Ongoing Therapies to reduce impact of disability and disability related complications, Alternative Medicine. - Transportation costs. - Treatment can be taken from any hospital. Aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to affordable and quality healthcare services. Key features: 1. Coverage: The scheme covers a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, therapy, corrective surgeries, and ongoing medical care for pre-existing conditions. 2. Eligibility: The scheme is open to PwD and CSN who are registered with the National Trust. The disabilities covered include autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and multiple disabilities. 3. Benefits - Up to INR 1 lakh annual insurance coverage per beneficiary. - No age limit for enrollment. - Coverage of pre-existing conditions from day one. - No requirement for a medical check-up before enrollment. 4. Premium: The annual premium is subsidized for PwDs. The amount of subsidy depends on the income category of the beneficiary. 5.Renewal: The policy is renewable annually, ensuring continuous coverage for beneficiaries. 6.Cashless Treatment: The scheme facilitates cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals, making it easier for beneficiaries to access medical care without upfront payments. 8 3. PRERNA (MARKETING ASSISTANCE) This scheme is designed to provide funding for participation in events like exhibitions, melas, and fairs, allowing persons with disabilities (PwDs) to sell their products. Additionally, it offers incentives to Registered Organizations (ROs) based on the sales turnover of products made by PwDs. Eligilibility criteria: Must be Registered with the National Trust. Must be Registered under the PwD Act. Must not have been blacklisted by the State / Central Govt. / Other Govt. Bank Account details of the Registered Organisation. E-mail ID and contact details of the Registered Organisation. 4. SAMBHAV This scheme aims to establish one Sambhav Centre in each city in India with a population exceeding 5 million (according to the 2011 census). Registered Organizations (ROs) are required to provide the following minimum facilities at each Sambhav Centre: I. Sambhav Resource Centre: These centres will offer information and facilitate access to devices, appliances, aids, and software to empower persons with disabilities (PwDs) under the National Trust. II. Aids and Assistive Devices: Each Sambhav Centre will display aids and assistive devices for PwDs as per the National Trust Act. A reference list of these devices, including their costs, will be available, covering items such as learning kits and aids for mobility and communication. 5. BADHTE KADAM Badhte Kadam aims at community awareness, sensitisation, social integration and mainstreaming of Persons with Disabilities. It has below mentioned objectives:  Raise awareness in the public, regarding Person with Disability (PwD) covered under the NationalTrust Act and encourage their inclusion in the society, social integration and participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.  Disseminate information on preventive strategies for the disabilities under the National Trust Act,1999  Sensitize community stakeholders  Publicize and maximize benefits of the National Trust schemes for Registered Organization (RO), PwDs and for families of PwDs.  Increase representation in remote areas and in areas where the National Trust is under represented  Spread awareness about myths and misconceptions about disability, disability etiquette etc. 9 Awareness and other activities Sl.no Category Activity 1. In collaboration with 1.Collaborate with existing Government major Conferences, Collaboration Meetings, Fairs, Exhibitions and other events 2.Circulars to be sent to concerned departments and Institutions (schools, colleges, banks, transport, hospitals etc.) 3.Handouts, posters, flyers, pamphlets or leaflets at Educational, Financial and Medical Institutes (especially in clinics of physiotherapists, paediatrician, psychologists and psychiatrists) 2. In collaboration with private 1.Collaboration with bodies Corporates and Voluntary Organizations to  Organize or participate in events 2.Handouts, posters, flyers, pamphlets or leaflets at Educational, Financial and Medical Institutes (especially in clinics of physiotherapists, paediatrician, psychologists and psychiatrists) 3. Media Related Social Media campaigns Media campaign - Print, TV, Radio, Cinema, Internet based (emailers, etc.) 4. Localized intervention 1.Participate in Local campaigns like fairs, Exhibitions, Melas, Road shows, Street plays etc. 2. Organize Social Inclusion events like cricket match, painting competitions, art exhibitions etc. 3.Conduct sessions in schools, colleges and other educational institute to 10  sensitize students about PwDs 6. GHARAUNDA Gharaunda-Group Home for Adults scheme, launched by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, aims at setting up Gharaunda Centres or Registered Organisations (RO) for for all Adult PwDs covered under the National Trust Act with adequate and quality care service with acceptable living standards including provision of basic medical care from professional doctors. The objective of Gharaunda scheme is to provide an assured home and minimum quality of care services throughout the life of the person with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities and ensure the following for them: Facilitate establishment of requisite infrastructure for the assured care system throughout the country Encourage assisted living with independence and dignity Provide care services on a sustainable basis Benefits 1)An assured home and minimum quality of care services throughout the life of the PwD. 2)Adequate and quality care service with acceptable living standards including provision of basic medical care from professional doctors. 3)Vocational activities, pre-vocational activities and assistance for further training. 6. INSTITUTIONS WORKING TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION 1. CENTRAL BOARD OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (CBSE) A National level board of education in India for public and private schools, controlled and managed by the Government of India. CBSE was established in 1962.The headquarters of CBSE is located in New Delhi, India. Objectives: 1. Provide quality education to promote intellectual, social, and cultural vivacity among learners. 2. Develop a robust, vibrant, and holistic school education system. 3. Ensure a child-centered and stress-free learning environment that will develop competent, confident, and enterprising citizens who will promote harmony and peace. 4. Innovate in teaching methodologies and exam patterns to promote students’ critical thinking and creativity. 11 Special Concessions for the Disabled: 1. Examination Concessions: Extra time: 20 minutes per hour of examination Scribe/Reader: Allowing the use of a scribe or reader for students with visual impairment or cerebral palsy. A scribe can only be a junior, that is, from a lower grade than the child appearing for the exam. A child has difficulty reading, (Learning disability) they are entitled to a reader, who reads, not explains, the questions to the child. However, a child can either have a reader or a scribe and not both. Use of a computer: Permitting the use of a computer for writing exams. As of January 2020, a major CBSE relaxation for learning disability is to allow the use of calculators for children who struggle with dyscalculia. Separate question papers: Providing separate question papers in large print or Braille. 2. Internal Assessment: - Flexibility in subjects: Allowing flexibility in choosing subjects based on the student’s disability. - Exemption from second and third languages 3. Facilities in Schools: - Barrier-free environment: Including ramps, accessible toilets, and other necessary facilities. - Special educators: To support the learning needs of students with disabilities. - Assistive devices and technologies to aid in learning. 4. Continuous Support: - Counseling: To address their academic and emotional needs. - Workshops and training: For teachers to sensitize them about the needs of students with disabilities and to equip them with necessary teaching strategies. 2. UNIVERSITY GRANTS COMMISSION (UGC) A statutory body set up by the Indian government under the Ministry of Education. The UGC was formally established in 1956 by an Act of Parliament. The headquarters of UGC is located in New Delhi, India. Objectives 1. Determine and maintain standards of teaching, examination, and research in universities. 2. Serve as a vital link between the Union and State governments and institutions of higher learning. 3. Advise the Central and State governments on measures necessary for the improvement of university education. 12 Special Concessions for the Disabled: 1. Scholarships: - Providing “UGC Scholarship for Students with Disabilities” to support their education financially. - Fellowships for pursuing higher studies and research. 2. Accessibility: - Encouraging universities and colleges to make their infrastructure accessible to students with disabilities. Provides guidelines for creating accessible campuses, including ramps, elevators, accessible classrooms, and toilets. 3. Examination Concessions: - Extra time - Provision of scribes or readers - Use of assistive technology and devices during exams. 4. Support Services: - Establishment of Equal Opportunity Cells (EOCs) in universities to address the needs of students with disabilities. - Appointment of special educators and counselors to provide academic and emotional support. 5. Inclusive Education Programs: - Workshops and training programs for faculty and staff to sensitively and effectively handle the needs of students with disabilities. - Encouraging inclusive teaching practices and curriculum adaptations. 6. Financial Assistance: - Funding for research projects related to disability studies and inclusive education. 3. NATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH MULTIPLE DISABILITIES (NIEPMD) Organization is dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of individuals with multiple disabilities. NIEPMD was established in the year 2005. It is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Serve as a national resource center for upliftment of persons with Multiple Disabilities enumerated as per RPWD Act (2016) are Blindness, Low-vision, Leprosy Cured persons, Hearing Impairment (deaf and hard of hearing), Loco motor Disability, Dwarfism, Intellectual Disability, Spectrum Disorder, Muscular Dystrophy, Chronic Neurological conditions, Specific Learning Disabilities, Multiple Sclerosis, Speech and Language disability, Thalassemia, Hemophilia, Sickle Cell disease, deaf blindness, Acid Attack victim, Parkinson’s disease and as per The National Trust (1999) Act, are Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities. 13 VISION The Persons with Multiple Disabilities have equal rights to lead a better quality of life. This may be enabled with committed professionalism, accessible environment, equal opportunities, positive attitudes and appropriate, affordable, acceptable and available technological interventions. MISSION To provide need based comprehensive rehabilitation through team approach facilitating inclusion, ensuring empowerment of persons with Multiple Disabilities and their families and by substantiating field-based research and development of human resources. Objectives: 1. Human Resource Development: Conducting training programs for professionals and personnel with multiple disabilities. Activities for empowerment of persons with Multiple Disabilities through the art rehabilitation intervention namely, educational, therapeutic, vocational, employment, leisure and social activities, sports, cultural programs and full participation as also through developing various approaches including community rehabilitation, project management and capacity building of NGOs. Job opportunities for PwDs. 2. Conducting research to develop new methods and technologies for the rehabilitation of persons with multiple disabilities. 3. Extension and Outreach: Extending services to rural and remote areas to ensure that PwDs and children with disabilities have access to necessary support. Provisions for the Disabled 1. Special education programs tailored to the needs of CSN and PwDs 2. Comprehensive rehabilitation services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. 3. Skill development programs to enable economic independence. 4. Providing assistive devices and technologies to enhance mobility and communication. 5. Counseling and support services for families of persons with multiple disabilities. 6. Conducting awareness and sensitization programs to promote inclusivity and reduce stigma. 4. THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR THE EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH VISUAL DISABILITIES (DIVYANGJAN)- NIEPVD - The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan) operates under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. - The Institute promotes the rights and dignity of persons with visual impairments. - It trains personnel to provide quality education, vocational training, and rehabilitation services for visually impaired individuals. - The Institute conducts research and development activities to create disability-inclusive policies, programs, and practices. 14 - Its R&D efforts have led to the development of tools and technologies that facilitate equal participation for visually impaired persons. - It is the largest producer and distributor of Braille literature and devices in India, including talking books. - It also provides an access to 24 X 7 Mental Health Rehabilitation helpline - 'KIRAN', Toll free Number 1800-599-0019. 5. THE CENTRAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, CIET The Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET) is an organization under the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) in India. It focuses on the integration of technology in education, including initiatives for specially-abled individuals. Initiatives under CIET: "PRASHAST" is a comprehensive initiative that includes a booklet and a mobile app designed as a Disability Screening Checklist for schools which covers 21 disabilities, facilitates early screening, aids in certification, etc. -Indian Sign Language based Teaching learning resources have been developed for hearing impaired students. - Comic book “Priya - The Accessibility Warrior” Main Character: Priya, a girl with a plastered leg after an accident. Theme: Highlights the importance of accessibility in everyday life. Actionable Points: Offers practical suggestions for enhancing accessibility. Purpose: Raises awareness about inclusive spaces and accessibility issues in an engaging comic format. - Bhasha Sangam: This initiative promotes day to day communication in 22 scheduled Indian languages and ISL. The app features 100+ sentences, designed on different themes that allow people to learn basic conversation in 22 Indian languages, test themselves and generate online certificates. 6. NATIONAL COUNCIL OF EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, NCERT - NCERT textbooks have included chapters that explore the themes of special needs and accessibility. Examples include: Class 3, Environmental studies book have a chapter named "Saying without Speaking". Class 3, English textbook has a chapter named "He is my brother" that has visuals in sign language. Class 4, Hindi textbook has a chapter called "Sunita ki pahiya Kursi" which is about a girl on a wheelchair. Class 11 and 12 textbooks have subsections about learning disabilities. - They also have audio textbooks available which are categorised into classes and subjects. - The e-pathshala app has the feature of "Text to Speech" specially designed for hearing impaired students. 7. KENDRIYA VIDYALAYA SANGATHAN, KVS - Following the guidelines given by NEP, 2020, KVS has been incorporating and promoting 15 inclusive education. - First and foremost, the infrastructure is made accessible. e.g. Installation of ramps and special toilets to cater the specially-abled children. - Most KVs have appointed Special Educators to provide individualized assistance, support and guidance to students with diverse learning needs. -Under the Project Inclusion Programme by Sri Aurobindo Society, the teachers have been encouraged to complete the online training programme (17 modules). 8. JAWAHARLAL NEHRU CENTRE FOR ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, JNCASR Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bangalore has provisions for inclusivity and support for disabled individuals. They strive to provide accessible facilities and accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in academic and research activities. Specific provisions may include accessible buildings, ramps, elevators, specialized equipment, and support services tailored to the needs of disabled students, staff, and visitors. 9. SWAMI VIVEKANAND NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF REHABILITATION TRAINING AND RESEARCH, SVNIRTAR  Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR) is an Autonomous Body under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DIVYANGJAN), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India. It is located in a beautiful rural area at Olatpur at a distance of 30 Kms. From Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.  It has a hospital, wards with 100 beds, Operation Theatres, X-ray and pathological investigations, Physio-Occupational Therapy services, Clinical Psychology, Vocational Counselling, Speech and Hearing, fabrication of rehabilitation of aids and appliances. It provides total medical rehabilitation for the Persons with Locomotors Disabilities.  Institute continued to provide rehabilitation services (Physiotherapy and Ocupational Therapy) through its three Sub-centres at Cuttack, Dhenkanal and Bhubaneswar. Institute Provides technical and manpower support to Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Guwahati, Assam (One of the five centres established by MoSJ&E, Govt. of India) to provide comprehensive rehabilitation service and Human Resource Development in north east region 10. NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR THE EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES, NIEPID National institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) was formally inaugurated in the year 1984, as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (then known as Ministry of Welfare), Government of India. It plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and providing various provisions for the disabled community. 16 Inclusivity provision of the institute 1. Education and Training: NIEPID offers education and vocational training programs tailored to the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities. 2. Therapeutic Services: The institute provides therapeutic services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy to help individuals with intellectual disabilities improve their communication, motor skills, and overall well-being. 3. Research and Development: NIEPID engages in research activities to develop innovative strategies and interventions for the empowerment and inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities. 4. Awareness and Advocacy: The institute raises awareness about intellectual disabilities and advocates for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in various aspects of society. 5. Community Outreach: NIEPID conducts outreach programs to reach out to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in diverse communities. 6. Collaboration and Partnerships: The institute collaborates with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), educational institutions, and other stakeholders to strengthen its efforts in promoting inclusivity and provision for persons with intellectual disabilities. 11. IIT DELHI IIT Delhi Takes Multiple Initiatives for the Empowerment of Students with Disabilities.  Adjustable height tables, elevated wheelchair making labs and experiments more accessible.  Accessible e-cart acquired  Ramps in classrooms, braille signage in lifts, braille name plates in use  Portable, accessible restroom for persons with disabilities installed.  IIT Delhi has also acquired an accessible e-cart for the transport of students with disabilities around the campus. Making buildings on the campus accessible for students with disabilities has been a key priority, accomplished through the addition of ramps in classrooms, braille signage in lifts, braille name plates, and accessible hostel accommodations. CONCLUSION The importance of laws and legislation for children with special needs in India is paramount in ensuring their rights and access to education. Acts which are implemented exclusively for special children provide a solid framework for inclusion and non-discrimination. Government schemes focusing on integrating children with special needs into mainstream education, offer necessary support and resources. Additionally, institutions play a crucial role in implementing these policies and promoting inclusive practices. Together, these laws, schemes, and institutions create an environment that empowers children with special needs, fostering their development and ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive in society. Continued commitment to these initiatives is essential for building a truly inclusive educational landscape in India. 17 References: 1. Special Education Notes. (2023). The role of Rehabilitation Council of India. Retrieved from (https://www.specialeducationnotes.in/2023/03/the-role-of-rehabilitation-council- of.html) 2. Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). (2018). Examination circular. Retrieved from (https://www.cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/Examination_Circular/2018/3_CIRCULAR.pdf) 3. University Grants Commission (UGC). (n.d.). Higher education for persons with disabilities. Retrieved from (https://www.ugc.gov.in/pdfnews/1604485_person-with- disabilities-Uni.pdf) 4. The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999. The National Trust. 5. The Mental Health Act, 2017. (n.d.). Retrieved from PDF. 6. National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD). (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://niepmd.tn.nic.in/ 7. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. (2006). National Policy for Persons with Disabilities. Vikaspedia. Retrieved from https://vikaspedia.in/social-welfare/differently- abled-welfare/policies-and-standards/national-policy-for-persons-with-disabilities-2006 8. Disability Rights (Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act & National Trust Act) and Mental Healthcare Act, National Human Rights Commission, India, 2021 9. The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities. (2022). PRERNA (Marketing Assistance). https://thenationaltrust.gov.in/content/scheme/prerna.php 10. The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities. (2022). SAMBHAV. https://thenationaltrust.gov.in/content/scheme/sambhav.php 11. National Institute for the Empowerment of the Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan), (2024). https://nivh.gov.in/ 12. Central Institute of Educational Technology. (n.d.). Accessibility initiative. National Council of Educational Research and Training. https://ciet.ncert.gov.in/initiative/accessibility 13. Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan. (n.d.). Inclusive education. https://romumbai.kvs.gov.in/inclusive-education/ 14. Vikaspedia. Legal rights of the disabled in India. Retrieved July 19, 2024. 15. Rehabilitation Council of India. Home. Retrieved July 19, 2024. 16. Government of India. National institutes. Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Retrieved July 19, 2024. 17. National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. 18. IIT Delhi. IIT Delhi wins the “Water Digest Water Award 2021”. 19. Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research. (2022). JNCASR CMS RULES – Revised OCT 2022. 20. The National Trust, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE), Govt. Of India. 18