Matribhumi Samachar English
Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment (SJE), Shri B.L. Verma presided over as the Chief Guest at the Sign Language Day-2024 celebrations today, at Bhim Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi. Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary (DEPwD), graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. The theme for this year’s event is ‘Support Sign Language Rights’.
In collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), M/o SJE, the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) organized the event to mark International Sign Language Day today. During the event, Shri B.L. Verma launched several new initiatives aimed at making education and employment opportunities more inclusive for the deaf community.
Key Highlights:
- Launch of 100 foundational concept videos in Indian Sign Language (ISL) for Class 6 subjects, including Science, Social Science, Mathematics, and English.
- Introduction of 2,500 new sign words in the ISL Dictionary.
- Unveiling of the ISL Dictionary, now available in 10 different languages.
- Release of Deaf Role Model videos, developed by Indian Signing Hands, to inspire the community.
- Launch of accessible educational stories in ISL for children of all age groups, fostering inclusive learning.
6. Inauguration of the SWAAS platform, offering access to websites of 25 National Institutes/Composite Regional Centers and the Ministry.
In his speech, Shri B.L. Verma emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to the Divyangjan community, stating, “Sign language is not just a language for the deaf but must become a language for everyone, promoting inclusivity across society.” He stressed the importance of using sign language widely for the progress of the deaf community. The Minister also praised the talent within the Divyangjan community, noting that with the right platforms, they can amaze the world with their abilities. Referring to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, he highlighted how India’s Divyang athletes made history by securing 29 medals, a remarkable achievement. He further stated that empowering the Divyangjan community will propel India forward, in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, emphasized the need for parents and society to learn and use sign language to better integrate deaf children into the mainstream. He also pointed out that technology and English education will play a pivotal role in helping deaf children become self-reliant.
During the programme, Uma Kapoor from All India Foundation of Deaf Women (AIFDW), and Usha Punjabi from Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy (IDBA), shared their thoughts, stressing the importance of sign language and its continued development for an inclusive society.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, DEPwD, Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Director of ISLRTC, as well as many students, teachers, and parents from the deaf community.
Footage of the Event:
