Special needs education in India

Abstract

Access to quality and inclusive education is a basic human right. However, students with developmental and intellectual disabilities continue to face significant challenges in availing their right to learn. In India, there remains a wide gap between policy frameworks and their effective implementation on the ground to support special needs education.

This project aims to explore ways to strengthen support for students with developmental disabilities and foster their holistic development. It seeks to analyse the current landscape of special needs education in the country through primary and secondary research. The objective is to identify key gaps in areas such as early identification and intervention, teaching-learning practices, skills development, transition support, and more.

The research methodology encompasses a literature review of academic studies and governmental reports on this subject. It also involves stakeholder interviews with special educators and families. Findings from the fieldwork are intended to provide valuable grassroots perspectives to supplement secondary data sources.

Based on a comprehensive situation analysis, the project aims to propose an entrepreneurial solution tackling priority issues faced by students, teachers, and institutions. The focus is on developing an idea that can help address challenges through an innovative and inclusive model. It is hoped that the insights and recommendations put forth will help strengthen support systems and advance progress towards a more equitable education system for all learners.