• Dr.Arvind Kumar

Over the past several decades, there has been a significant shift towards inclusive education policies and practices in schools around the world. This reflects a growing recognition of the rights of students with disabilities and special educational needs to be educated alongside their peers in general education settings. Inclusive education moves away from the historical segregation of students with disabilities into separate, specialized institutions or classrooms. Instead, it aims to create learning environments where all students, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or learning needs, can participate, learn, and thrive together.The push for inclusive education is grounded in principles of human rights, social justice, and equity. International declarations and frameworks, such as the Salamanca Statement (1994) and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), have galvanized global momentum towards more inclusive education systems. Many countries have passed laws and implemented policies to increase access to inclusive schooling for students with diverse needs. This includes providing accommodations, adaptations, and individualized supports to enable their full participation and learning in general education classrooms.Defining Inclusive Education Inclusive education involves more than simply placing students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms. It requires a systemic transformation of schools and education systems to better address the diverse learning needs of all students. UNESCO defines inclusive education as:"a process of strengthening the capacity of the education system to reach out to all learners and can thus be understood as a key strategy to achieve education for all. As an overall principle, it should guide all education policies and practices, starting from the belief that education is a basic human right and the foundation for a more just and equal society."At its core, inclusive education is about creating welcoming, supportive, and responsive learning environments that maximize the participation and achievement of every student. This involves:Identifying and removing barriers to learning and participationValuing student diversity and differences as assetsTailoring instruction, curricula, and assessments to individual needsProviding necessary accommodations, modifications, and supportsFostering a culture of collaboration, belonging, and acceptanceInclusive education moves beyond simply mainstreaming or integrating students with disabilities. It embraces a broader vision of equity, accessibility, and inclusive design to benefit all learners, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups.Benefits of Inclusive Education Research has consistently demonstrated the academic, social-emotional, and broader societal benefits of inclusive education for students with and without disabilities.Academic Benefits Studies show that students with disabilities generally experience higher academic achievement when educated in inclusive classrooms compared to segregated special education settings. They are able to access the general curriculum and learn alongside their peers, with appropriate supports and accommodations. Inclusive education has been linked to improved literacy, numeracy, and other academic outcomes for students with a wide range of disabilities, including learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and physical/sensory impairments

"Inclusive Education in Current Research", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no.f319-f321, September-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409567.pdf

"Inclusive Education in Current Research", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no. ppf319-f321, September-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409567.pdf