Three key initiatives launched at Purple Fest to empower PwDs
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Goa: The second day of the International Purple Fest witnessed the launch of three major initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility in listening, reading, and writing for persons with disabilities (PwDs). The announcements, led by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), mark a vital step toward inclusive education, skill development, and global participation for individuals with disabilities.
Inclusive IELTS Handbook for persons with disabilities
The first initiative, the IELTS Training Handbook for persons with disabilities, was launched by Believe in the Invisible (BITI) with the support of DEPwD, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Authored by Anjali Vyas, Co-Founder of BITI and a British Council–certified IELTS Trainer, the handbook is the first comprehensive inclusive resource designed to make IELTS preparation accessible to PwDs.
The guide serves both as a self-learning tool and a teaching manual, covering modules such as Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, with reasonable accommodation guidelines and practical tools for learners with visual, hearing, locomotor, and other disabilities.
It also includes ISL (Indian Sign Language) video links, accessible study materials, and strategies for trainers — representing a major step toward equal learning opportunities in language proficiency education.
ISLRTC’s recognition and skill training initiatives
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), New Delhi, also announced the successful completion of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – Certification in ISL Interpretation (CISLI) / Skill Course for SODA (Siblings of Deaf Adults) and CODA (Children of Deaf Adults).
Conducted from August 11 to 29, 2025, at ISLRTC in offline mode, 17 participants from across India completed the training successfully. Certificates will be awarded on December 3, 2025, coinciding with the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.
Launch of ASL and BSL training for Indian professionals
In response to the growing demand for international collaboration, ISLRTC announced a Specialized Basic Training Programme on American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL).
The one-month course, starting December 3, 2025, aims to introduce Indian interpreters to global sign language standards, focusing on grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, thereby expanding their professional opportunities in international forums.
Unified vision for accessibility and inclusion
Launching the initiatives, Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, said the government remains committed to building a barrier-free learning ecosystem. The event also saw the participation of Taha Haaziq, Secretary to SCPD, Goa, Praveen Kumar, CMD, ALIMCO, and other senior officials from DEPwD and ISLRTC.
Together, these three initiatives reflect a unified vision — to empower persons with disabilities through inclusive education, skill-based training, and enhanced communication opportunities on both national and global platforms.
