Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches India’s First Sign Language DTH Channel

NEW DELHI: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated PM e-VIDYA Channel 31 on Friday. It is a dedicated DTH channel that provides educational content in Indian Sign Language. It is an initiative towards inclusiveness in education as enunciated in the National Education Policy 2020.

Speaking at the launch, Pradhan said that the channel is important for the empowerment of children with special needs and enhancing inclusivity in the education system. "A historic chapter has been added to the welfare of Divyangs with this channel. It represents a crucial step in creating an inclusive and progressive society," he remarked.

The minister underlined the role of sign language not only as a communication tool but as a medium influencing culture, art, and drama. He also mentioned examples of popular differently-abled individuals like Soordas and Stephen Hawking, underlining the immense untapped potential within the Divyang community.

"The launch of this channel is a step toward unlocking that immense potential," Pradhan stated.

He appealed to stakeholders to popularize PM e-VIDYA Channel 31 so that it can reach as many beneficiaries as possible. "Indian Sign Language has the potential to create jobs and set standards worldwide," he said, envisioning a broader impact beyond education.

The channel launch is a transformative move towards inclusivity and an open stage towards accessible education that can foster an atmosphere of celebration for diversity.

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