New Delhi: More than 72 lakh teachers have been sensitised on inclusive education for children with special needs (CwSN), while over 60,000 schools participated in a nationwide screening initiative organised by the Union education ministry through the PRASHAST portal.
The Department of School Education and Literacy conducted a 30-minute sensitisation and orientation module to help teachers, special educators and non-teaching staff understand the needs of children with special needs and create safe, accessible and supportive school environments.
Available in 12 Indian languages, the module uses practical examples and interactive activities to promote respectful and inclusive practices. It is designed for school heads, teachers, special educators and non-teaching personnel, including drivers, clerical staff, receptionists, wardens and other support staff.
The ministry has been conducting the sensitisation programme over the past three months, with participation expected to increase further during October.
PRASHAST helps identify children requiring disability assessment
PRASHAST is a school-based digital tool designed to identify children with probable disabilities covered under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
Its two-part checklist enables teachers to screen students based on observable indicators. Special educators subsequently validate cases and facilitate referrals for medical assessment wherever required.
The initiative promotes a whole-school approach to inclusion, recognising that a child’s experience extends beyond the classroom to school offices, transport and other common areas.
The ministry said the programme reinforces the shared responsibility of all school personnel in ensuring that children with special needs receive appropriate support.
