Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), an autonomous body under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), Government of India, is organizing a grand programme to celebrate “Sign Language Day – 2025” on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), Janpath, New Delhi.

The United Nations General Assembly has declared 23rd September as International Day of Sign Languages to raise awareness about the importance of sign language in realizing the human rights of people who are Deaf. This year’s theme – “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights” – emphasizes the crucial role of sign language in ensuring equality, inclusion, and dignity for persons who are Deaf.

The event will be graced by the august presence of Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, as the Chief Guest. Shri B. L. Verma, Hon’ble Minister of State, will join as the Guest of Honour. Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, and other senior officials of MoSJE will also participate. Representatives from national organizations of the Deaf, educators, researchers, students, and other stakeholders will also attend the programm.

Launch of Key Initiatives:

• ISLRTC Bi-Annual Newsletter – platform to share research, training, and community achievements.
• Post Graduate Diploma Courses (PGDISLI & PGDTISL) – to prepare expert teachers and interpreters.
• Six-Month Online ISL Training Programme – accessible nationwide, bridging urban-rural gaps.
• Teaching-Learning Material for DISLI and DTISL courses – standardized, quality study resources.
• 100 STEM Terms in ISL – promoting better understanding of advanced science and technology subjects.
• English Language Teaching Programme (with TEACH) – to improve English proficiency and employability.
• 3,189 ISL e-Content Videos – the largest digital repository of ISL resources for learners and teachers.
• ISL Integration with “Project Inclusion App” – promoting inclusive education in mainstream classrooms.
• ISL Version of 18 NBT Books – to enhance access to literature and knowledge for Deaf children and youth.

Winners of the 8th National Indian Sign Language Competition, 2025 (held across 13 categories with participation from schools nationwide) will be felicitated during the programme. Cultural Performances by Deaf students – song interpretation, mime, and group dance will be the main attraction of the program.

These initiatives are expected to create new avenues for education, skill development, employment, and empowerment of the Deaf community. The emphasis on digital learning resources and innovative approaches will significantly boost accessibility, awareness, and inclusion, in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of an “Inclusive India.”ISLRTC invites media representatives, educators, stakeholders, and the general public to strengthen the message that sign language is an essential pillar of human rights and inclusion.

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KV

(Release ID: 2169536)