CwSN Children Explore Himachal Vidhan Sabha

The day became unforgettable for Children with Special Needs (CwSN) studying in government schools of Himachal Pradesh, as they visited the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha for the first time. The children closely observed the legislative functioning of the House and even experienced the proceedings by sitting in the Assembly like MLAs, which proved to be inspiring and unique for them.
Education Minister Rohit Thakur flagged off the children from the Vidhan Sabha परिसर on an exposure visit. MLA from Lahaul-Spiti Anuradha Rana, Samagra Shiksha Director Rajesh Sharma, Higher Education Director Dr. Amarjeet Sharma, School Education Director Ashish Kohli, Assembly officials, teachers, and special educators were present on the occasion.
Speaking to the children, Education Minister Rohit Thakur said these children are the future of the nation, and it is the government’s responsibility to broaden their thinking and make them self-reliant. He added that the state has appointed special educators in schools and more recruitments will be done in the future. The minister also highlighted efforts to adopt modern teaching technologies to improve learning outcomes.
Samagra Shiksha Director Rajesh Sharma informed that under the exposure visit programme, the children will travel to Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Wagah Border, and witness the evening Retreat Ceremony at the India–Pakistan border. He said the department is working continuously for the empowerment of CwSN through technology-based education, special training, and deployment of special educators.
He further stated that internet facilities are being provided in government schools across the state and new techniques are being introduced with the help of technical institutions. Special educators are also being trained in modern tools to reduce learning gaps. Mobile Resource Centres equipped with advanced facilities will also be launched at the zonal level to provide therapy services for CwSN.
During the event, Assembly Deputy Secretary Jitendra Singh Kanwar briefed the children about the history and working of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, the proceedings of the House, and the roles and responsibilities of the Speaker and members. The children enthusiastically asked questions and gained deeper understanding of democratic processes.
A 156-member team, including 96 CwSN students, special educators, inclusive education officials, and support staff, departed from Shimla for the visit. The group will reach Chandigarh today and visit Chhatbir Zoo, with an overnight stay arranged there. On January 17, the children will travel to Amritsar and then to Wagah Border for the Retreat Ceremony. On January 18, they will visit the Golden Temple and return to Shimla the same day with their experiences.