Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) plays a crucial role in promoting the use of sign language in India. Established by the government, it aims to facilitate communication for the deaf community and ensure their empowerment through education and skill development. The center has undertaken various initiatives to foster an inclusive environment for individuals with hearing impairments.
Introduction to ISLRTC
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre is an autonomous institution that operates under the supervision of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), which is part of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Founded in the year 2015, ISLRTC’s primary focus is to conduct research and offer training in Indian Sign Language (ISL). Its establishment is a significant step towards recognizing the linguistic needs of the deaf community in India and providing them with the necessary tools for better education and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Promotion of Sign Language Education
One of the key objectives of ISLRTC is to promote sign language as a means of instruction, especially for teachers who work with deaf students. By equipping educators with the knowledge of ISL, the centre ensures that they can effectively communicate with and teach students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This initiative not only enhances the quality of education for these students but also supports their overall development and integration into society.
Support for Entrepreneurs
In addition to focusing on education, ISLRTC also extends its support to entrepreneurs within the deaf community. By providing training in ISL, the centre helps these individuals to navigate the business world more effectively and to establish successful enterprises. This empowers them economically and allows for greater self-reliance and confidence.
World Sign Language Day Celebrations
Every year, on September 23, World Sign Language Day is celebrated to acknowledge the importance of sign languages for the deaf community worldwide. In one such celebration, ISLRTC presented a documentary that highlighted the journey of Indian Sign Language. The documentary served as an educational tool to spread awareness about ISL and its significance in the lives of people who are deaf.
Digitization of NCERT Textbooks
A landmark achievement for ISLRTC was the release of digital NCERT textbooks in sign language for students from Class I to V. This development was the result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ISLRTC and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The digitized textbooks are designed to be accessible to deaf students, thus bridging the gap in educational resources for them. This initiative is a testament to the centre’s commitment to making education inclusive and accessible for all students, regardless of their hearing ability.
Conclusion
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of the deaf community in India through its efforts in research, training, and the promotion of ISL. With each initiative, whether it be through education or entrepreneurial support, the centre strives to empower individuals with hearing impairments and integrate them fully into the fabric of society. As ISLRTC moves forward, its contributions are likely to have a lasting impact on the social and economic empowerment of persons with disabilities in India.
