Inclusive education and right to education act-2009

The key objective of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is Universalization of Elementary Education (UEE). This goal of UEE, has further been facilitated by the Constitutional (86th Amendment) Act, making free and compulsory elementary education a Fundamental Right, for all the children in the age group of 6–14 years. The Right of children to free and compulsory Education Bill was passed through both the houses of parliament without a word of opposition. This Amendment has given a new thrust to the education of Children With Special Needs (CWSN), as without their inclusion, the objective of UEE cannot be achieved. SSA ensures that every child with special needs, irrespective of the kind, category and degree of disability, is provided meaningful and quality education. Hence, SSA has adopted a zero rejection policy. SSA has adopted a more expansive and a broad-based understanding of the concept of inclusion. The practices and innovations in SSA are no doubt leading to a gradual increased identification of CWSN. The focus of SSA is now on reaching out to those out of school CWSN, not covered so far and developing a strategy that will ensure that every child with special needs receives continuing onsite support. This perhaps is the biggest challenge of all and a crucial determinant of the success of the inclusive education programme under SSA.