Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan officially launched the PMeVIDYA DTH 24×7 Channel No. 31 for Indian Sign Language (ISL) in New Delhi. The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Jayant Chaudhary, along with other dignitaries including Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, and Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT.
Key Highlights from Shri Dharmendra Pradhan’s Address
- Transformational Impact of Disability Recognition: Shri Pradhan emphasized the expansion of recognized disabilities from 7 to 21, making the legal framework more inclusive. This expansion is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritizes education for Children with Special Needs (CwSN).
- Importance of Indian Sign Language (ISL): Shri Pradhan stressed that communication is not limited to sound, and alternative forms like ISL are essential for providing equal opportunities. He envisioned the widespread adoption of ISL to support the hearing-impaired population and to foster employment opportunities.
- ISL and Cultural Expressions: Highlighting the significance of ISL in cultural expressions such as dance and drama, Shri Pradhan cited the potential within the differently-abled community, urging for the promotion of Channel 31 to enhance communication and inclusivity.
- A Commitment to Inclusivity: He emphasized that the launch of Channel 31 sets a global benchmark, reaffirming India’s commitment to ensuring equal access to education and resources for all citizens.
Shri Jayant Chaudhary’s Contribution
Shri Jayant Chaudhary applauded the initiative, calling it a milestone in India’s journey towards inclusivity. He highlighted the shift from the People with Disability Act to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, focusing on the rights-oriented framework. He also recognized the efforts to standardize regional ISL vocabulary, with over 10,000 words now standardized.
Shri Sanjay Kumar’s Remarks
Shri Sanjay Kumar praised the initiative for aligning with the inclusivity and accessibility pillars of the National Education Policy 2020. He acknowledged the efforts to categorize disabilities using NCERT’s Prashast App and the significance of recognizing ISL as a formal language. He also emphasized the importance of ISL learning for effective communication and progress.
The Role of the PM eVidya Channel
The PM eVidya Channel is dedicated to promoting ISL as both a language and a subject, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience. The channel will provide educational content for school children, teachers, career guidance, and skill training, with a special focus on communication skills and promoting ISL as a language subject.
Event Participation and Activities
The event was marked by participation from Hearing Impaired (HI) children, special educators, ISL interpreters, and organizations supporting the HI community. The event also featured the rendering of the National Anthem in Sign Language and a skit performed by HI students. A short film showcasing HI achievers was also presented.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is the main focus of the PMeVIDYA DTH 24×7 Channel No. 31 launched on December 7, 2024?
A) Promoting Indian Sign Language (ISL)
B) Promoting Indian History
C) Providing career guidance for students
D) Promoting traditional Indian language
Answer: A) Promoting Indian Sign Language (ISL)
2. Who was the Union Minister for Education who launched the PMeVIDYA Channel No. 31?
A) Shri Jayant Chaudhary
B) Shri Sanjay Kumar
C) Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
D) Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani
Answer: C) Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
3. Which policy emphasizes the inclusion of Children with Special Needs (CwSN) in the education system?
A) National Health Policy
B) National Education Policy 2020
C) Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act
D) People with Disability Act
Answer: B) National Education Policy 2020
4. What does the PM e-Vidya Channel No. 31 aim to promote, apart from ISL?
A) School subjects
B) Career guidance
C) Mental health education
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
5. Which of the following is NOT a topic covered by the PMeVIDYA Channel No. 31?
A) Mental health
B) Career guidance
C) History of India
D) Communication skills
Answer: C) History of India