Chandigarh: In a significant step towards promoting accessibility and inclusivity, the Haryana Government has initiated measures to provide sign language interpretation support during training programmes for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi has issued directions to all Administrative Secretaries of the state, forwarding an Office Memorandum issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India, regarding the provision of sign language interpretation support during training programmes for persons with disabilities.
According to the communication, the Centre has emphasized the need to make government training programmes more accessible for persons with hearing impairments and other communication-related disabilities.
The Office Memorandum refers to recommendations made by the Court Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) and highlights the requirement of ensuring reasonable accommodation and inclusive participation in official training programmes.
As per the instructions, all government departments and training institutions have been advised to assess the necessity of engaging sign language interpreters and other accessibility support services during training sessions involving persons with disabilities.
The communication states that sign language interpretation is recognized as a vital support mechanism for effective communication and participation of individuals with hearing disabilities. The move is aimed at ensuring equal access to capacity-building programmes, skill development initiatives and official training activities conducted by government agencies.
The Haryana Government has asked all departments to take necessary action in accordance with the directions issued by the Government of India and ensure compliance with accessibility norms during training programmes.
