The past decade declares a sudden erupt in the identification of learning disabilities in India. It was found that in India around 13-14 % of all school children suffer from learning disabilities but regrettably most school fails to provide a helping help to those victim students of LD and label them as failures. Samir Parikh, a child psychiatrist defines dyslexia not as a disease but a lifelong problem that creates challenges that needs to be overcome daily by the effected child. He is however optimistic that a child suffering from dyslexia can lead a successful life with hard work, proper education, family and teacher support.
Recently in the year 2008, Tata Interactive Learning Disability Forum (TDLF) held in Mumbai on 29th November and in Kolkata in 2nd December put to light the vital need to address LD issues. Spotlighting the theme of “Special Deeds for Special Needs”, the TDLF 2008 emphasized the significance of early restorative action to help learners with special needs. The CEO of Tata Interactive Systems (TIS) Sanjaya Sharma said,” Around 3-7% of the world population suffers from Learning Disorders, but it can be overcome if detected at an appropriate time. We have invited International LD experts to interact with city doctors, parents and teachers to make them more aware. Right now we are focusing on Mumbai and Kolkata, to spread awareness.”
The quote “education for all” remains disgruntled if educational opportunities are not extended to all school-going children including children with LD. If more attention is given to such children by extending a helping hand to institutions and schools that help children with LD will positively improve the scene. In some institutions, there are trained personnel who are able to evaluate the scope of damage and treat these children accordingly.
