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Shift in J&K education policy brings focus on children with hearing, speech impairments

  • Aatif Qayoom By Aatif Qayoom
  • Comments 0
  • 08 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr 07: A new sense of hope is emerging for children with special needs in J&K as the government begins to strengthen a long-neglected area of education.

For years, families struggled with limited options, often forced to send their children outside the UT or keep them at home after basic schooling. Now, with new schools coming up in both north and south Kashmir, there is a visible shift towards inclusion and opportunity.

Officials’ privy to the matter have confirmed to Rising Kashmir, that a dedicated school building has been completed in Anantnag district, while land has been earmarked in Sopore for another institution. These new campuses will cater specifically to children with hearing and speech impairments, and once operational, they will increase the number of such specialised schools in the Valley to three, including the already functional Abhinandan Home in Srinagar.

Each of these institutions is planned with boarding facilities and trained staff, aiming to create an environment where children can learn, communicate, and grow with dignity.

The move is being seen as a response to a long-standing gap in the system. Until now, Abhinandan Home remained the only major facility of its kind across J&K. Originally run by a non-governmental organisation, the school had suffered from poor infrastructure and lack of resources.

After being taken over by the Social Welfare Department, efforts were made to upgrade it. A new multi-storey building is nearing completion, along with improved hostel facilities, especially for girl students. At present, the school accommodates 128 students and has introduced trained sign language instructors, which has significantly improved classroom engagement.

What makes the current push more meaningful is the focus on life beyond school. Authorities are working to introduce vocational training programmes, including ITI courses, so that students who complete Class 10 or 12 are not left without direction.

In recent years, dozens of students from Abhinandan Home have passed their examinations with strong results, yet many had no access to skill-based training or higher education opportunities. This often forced them into inactivity despite their capabilities.

According to official data from the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, there are around 36,000 children with special needs in J&K, based on the 2011 census. Officials admit that the actual number is likely much higher today. The lack of updated data, combined with limited infrastructure, has historically slowed policy response. However, recent steps suggest a more focused approach, with emphasis on both education and employability.

In a parallel effort, the government has also moved towards building a pathway for higher education. A proposal has been prepared to introduce vocational and academic courses through institutions in Srinagar, supported by resource centres equipped with sign language services. The aim is to ensure that students do not face a dead end after school, but instead have access to colleges and structured training.

Administrators say the vision is to empower these students with the tools they need for independent living. By linking education with skills and career opportunities, the government hopes to bring real change to thousands of families who have waited years for such support.

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