Why in news?
On 26 October 2025, the Department of School Education & Literacy and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities jointly flagged off the Walk for Dyslexia 2025 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The event, co‑organised by the Changeinkk Foundation, UNESCO’s Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development, Orkids Foundation and Soch Foundation, marked the culmination of the #GoRedforDyslexia campaign during Dyslexia Awareness Month. Iconic buildings such as Rashtrapati Bhavan, North Block and South Block were illuminated in red to raise awareness about dyslexia and other Specific Learning Disabilities.
Background
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterised by difficulty in reading due to challenges in recognising speech sounds and connecting letters to words. It is unrelated to intelligence or vision and often results from differences in brain development. Dyslexia runs in families, and research shows structural and functional differences in the brains of people with dyslexia. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 formally recognised Specific Learning Disabilities, including dyslexia, as disabilities eligible for support and equal opportunities. The National Education Policy 2020 emphasises inclusive education, early identification of learning difficulties and teacher training.
Highlights of the campaign and initiatives
- Walk for Dyslexia: Over 300 participants—including students, parents, educators and activists—joined the walk to promote acceptance and understanding of dyslexia. The organisers kept the theme colour red, and participants carried placards advocating inclusive education and early screening.
- Illumination of landmarks: Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Secretariat, Parliament and other historic monuments across India were lit in red to symbolise solidarity with people with dyslexia and to encourage public dialogue on learning differences.
- PRASHAST 2.0: The Secretary of School Education & Literacy highlighted the role of PRASHAST 2.0, a mobile‑app‑based screening tool developed by NCERT, in helping teachers identify children with learning disabilities at an early stage. Early detection allows for timely intervention, accommodations and assistive technologies.
- Inclusive policies: Under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, modules on inclusive education are being integrated into teacher training programmes. Block‑level screening camps are organised in coordination with health and disability departments to ensure that children with Specific Learning Disabilities are diagnosed and supported. Assistive devices, learning materials and therapeutic services are provided as part of the initiative.
- Prevalence and awareness: Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disabilities worldwide. Global estimates suggest that around one in five individuals may have dyslexia. According to the UDISE+ 2024–25 data, about 12.15 % of children with special needs in Indian schools have been reported to have Specific Learning Disabilities, though experts believe the actual number may be higher due to under‑reporting.
Conclusion
The #GoRedforDyslexia campaign demonstrates India’s growing commitment to recognising and supporting learners with dyslexia and other learning differences. By raising public awareness, promoting early screening through tools like PRASHAST 2.0 and integrating inclusive practices into education, the initiative aims to ensure that children with dyslexia receive the support they need to thrive. Illuminating landmarks in red is both a symbolic and practical reminder that embracing neurodiversity makes society stronger.
Source: Press Information Bureau