Assam has made history as the first Indian state to introduce Indian Sign Language (ISL) as an elective for Class 11 students, alongside Artificial Intelligence and Financial Literacy, starting with the 2025-26 academic year.
This initiative, led by the Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) and announced by Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu, aims to foster inclusivity, prepare students for a digital economy, and break communication barriers with the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Officials and educators are being specially trained to ensure effective implementation.
Empathy in Action: Assam’s Inclusive Curriculum Leap
The new curriculum, rolled out by ASSEB, offers students three fresh electives: Artificial Intelligence, Financial Literacy, and Indian Sign Language (ISL). During the launch, Dr. Ranoj Pegu emphasised that the move is designed to equip students with skills for the future while promoting inclusivity and empathy.
“This is a significant stride towards preparing our youth for the evolving demands of a digital economy, while also ensuring that every voice, spoken or signed, is valued,” said Dr. Pegu at the inauguration of a three-day residential AI training for teachers at IIT Guwahati. The board is also developing teacher training modules and has released a Google form for schools interested in offering these subjects to share their requirements5.
Setting a National Example: Context and Broader Impact
Assam’s decision arrives at a time when Indian states are debating language dominance in education, yet Assam has chosen to prioritise inclusivity and accessibility. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which envisages inclusive education and the use of ISL.
The move is also timely, given that an estimated 19% of deaf and hard-of-hearing children in India were out of school as of 2014, largely due to the lack of sign language education. By introducing ISL, Assam is addressing a critical educational gap and setting an example for other states to follow, while also preparing students to communicate and connect with a broader community.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Assam’s bold step to introduce Indian Sign Language as an elective is a powerful testament to the state’s commitment to empathy, inclusion, and harmony.
The Logical Indian celebrates this initiative as a model for positive social change, demonstrating that true progress is measured not just by technological advancement, but by how we uplift and include every member of society.
