Union Minister B.L. Verma Launches Key Initiatives at Sign Language Day 2024 Celebration in Delhi

New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment (SJE), B.L. Verma, presided over the Sign Language Day 2024 celebrations at Bhim Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi, today. This year’s theme, “Support Sign Language Rights,” emphasized the importance of inclusivity for the deaf community.

Organized by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) in collaboration with DEPwD, the event marked the celebration of International Sign Language Day and featured several key initiatives to advance education and employment opportunities for the deaf.

Key Initiatives Launched:

1. 100 Foundational Concept Videos in Indian Sign Language (ISL): These educational resources, developed for Class 6 subjects including Science, Social Science, Mathematics, and English, aim to make learning more accessible.
2. 2,500 New Sign Words in ISL Dictionary: The expanded dictionary now covers subjects such as math, science, philosophy, and higher education topics, developed in collaboration with organizations including Yunikee, India Signing Hands, Bridge Connectivity Services, and Anuprayaas.
3. ISL Dictionary in 10 Languages: The ISL dictionary is now available in 10 regional languages, including Tamil, Assamese, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Telugu, Bengali, Odia, Punjabi, and Malayalam, with a QR code for easy access.
4. Deaf Role Model Videos: A series of videos developed by Indian Signing Hands were launched to inspire the deaf community by showcasing accomplished individuals.
5. Accessible Educational Stories in ISL: These stories cater to children of all age groups, fostering inclusive learning experiences.
6. Inauguration of SWAAS Platform: This platform provides access to the websites of 25 National Institutes/Composite Regional Centers and the Ministry, ensuring accessibility for the deaf community.

Minister’s Address

B.L. Verma emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering the Divyangjan (differently-abled) community, stating, “Sign language is not just a language for the deaf but must become a language for everyone, promoting inclusivity across society.” He highlighted the importance of making sign language widespread to further the progress of the deaf community. He also praised India’s Divyang athletes for their historic achievement of securing 29 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, noting that the right platforms can showcase the incredible talent of the Divyangjan community.

Remarks from Dignitaries

Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of DEPwD, underscored the importance of parents and society learning sign language to integrate deaf children into the mainstream. He stressed the role of technology and English education in making deaf children self-reliant.

The event also featured speakers from the All India Foundation of Deaf Women (AIFDW) and Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy (IDBA), including Uma Kapoor and Usha Punjabi, who highlighted the ongoing need for the development of sign language to foster an inclusive society.

Several dignitaries, including Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary of DEPwD, and Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Director of ISLRTC, along with students, teachers, and parents from the deaf community, attended the celebration.