Blitz Bureau
INTERNATIONAL Day of Sign Languages, celebrated on September 23 each year, underscores the vital role of sign languages in promoting the rights and recognition of the deaf worldwide.
Established through the 2017 UN General Assembly Resolution, the day highlights the importance of early access to sign language and quality education, which are essential for the growth and development of deaf individuals. The resolution not only advocates for linguistic and cultural diversity but also acknowledges the more than 70 million deaf people globally, with over 80 pc residing in developing countries and using over 300 different sign languages.
In India, the day is observed as Sign Language Day, celebrating Indian Sign Language (ISL) as a natural visual-manual language that fosters communication within both the deaf and hearing communities. ISL is not at all similar to Hindi, English, or any other spoken language in India. It has its own structure and is not a hand representation of any spoken language.
Since its inaugural celebration in 2018, the Sign Language Day has served as a platform to raise awareness about the significance of sign languages in achieving international development goals and ensuring the full realiation of human rights for deaf individuals. The date is significant as it coincides with the establishment of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 1951.
This year, the Sign Language Day was celebrated with Union Minister for Social Justice & EmpowermentVirendra Kumar as the Chief Guest, and Minister of State BL Verma as the Guest of Honour. Organised by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, this year’s theme was‘Sign up for Sign Language Rights’.
The ISLRTC introduced 2,500 new ISL terms covering subjects like mathematics, science, and various academic fields. Besides, 100 concept videos in ISL were designed for hearing-impaired children in the sixth grade. These videos provided detailed explanations of subjects like math and science, using graphics and subtitles to promote inclusive learning.
Major initiatives
Among the other initiatives announced at the event were an ISL dictionary in 10 regional languages, educational animated videos in ISL and deaf role model videos in ISL. The event also featured the winners of the 7th Indian Sign Language Competition, a nationallevel contest showcasing the creativity and skills of students with hearing disabilities.
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) in India implements several schemes and provisions aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, including deaf and dumb students. These include assistance to disabled persons for purchase/fitting of aids/ appliances; financial assistance for deaf colleges; and scholarships for students with disabilities.
Rehab services
Two key institutes, Ali Yavar Jung National Institute for Speech & Hearing Disabilities in Mumbai and the Indian Sign Language Research & Training Centre (ISLRTC) in New Delhi, focus on hearing and speech disabilities. Additionally, 25 Composite Regional Centres (CRCs) have been established to provide rehabilitation services, skill development training, and awareness programs.
The Government’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities is underpinned by a robust constitutional framework. A significant milestone in this journey is the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act of 2016, which emphasises inclusive education as a fundamental right.
