Arunachal guv bats for inclusive policy for kids with special needs

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh governor KT Parnaik on Monday called for a comprehensive review and mapping of children with special needs (CWSNs) in the state to formulate an impactful and inclusive policy for their welfare.

Inaugurating a two-day event organised to mark the ‘Awareness and Observation of Autism Month' here, the governor emphasized the need for intensive sensitisation programmes for all stakeholder departments, especially education, health, social justice, and women and child development.

Highlighting the role of frontline workers, he stressed that they must be trained and encouraged to actively reduce stigma and foster a more inclusive, supportive environment for CWSNs and their families, an official statement from the Raj Bhavan said.

Parnaik suggested the full implementation of inclusive education across all schools, through the mandatory appointment of special educators, particularly during the early, formative years of a child's education. He also proposed the establishment of govt-run model special schools.

He further recommended that the health and social justice departments collaborate to standardise private centres and integrate them under the welfare programmes provided by the state and central govts.

This, he said, would ensure therapy services are accessible, affordable, and maintained at a high standard for all children who need them.

Describing the event as a stepping stone towards an amplified understanding and celebration of neurodiversity, the governor referred to autistic children as the "shining stars", highlighting their unique talents, focus, and attention to detail.

He praised the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Ratan Anya for her tireless efforts in pursuing issues related to child rights at the state level.