Commends Efforts in Holistic Development of Specially-Abled Children
Srinagar, Sep 21 (KINS): In a significant step towards supporting the well-being and overall development of specially-abled children in Ladakh, Acting Chief Justice (A) of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Justice Tashi Rabstan, visited the only Government Inclusive School located in Chuchot Yokma, Leh. The visit was aimed at assessing the quality of education, care, and infrastructure provided to children requiring specialized attention.
Accompanied by M.K. Sharma, Principal Secretary, and Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary of the J&K Legal Services Authority, Justice Tashi was warmly received by school staff and officials, including Phunsung Angmo, Secretary of DLSA Leh, Nema Stanzin, Deputy Chief LADC, and Sonam Wangchuk, Chief Education Officer. The event featured a special welcome by the students, including a cultural program presented by the specially-abled children.
During his visit, Justice Tashi inspected the school’s infrastructure, including classrooms, activity centers, residential facilities, and the multipurpose hall. He praised the administration for fostering an inclusive learning environment that promotes both academic and extracurricular growth. “It is heartening to see that children of all abilities are given the opportunity to participate in cultural programs, sports, and arts, which contribute greatly to their self-confidence and holistic development,” he remarked.
Justice Tashi also reviewed the residential arrangements for students who travel from distant villages. He commended the school’s efforts to provide a nurturing environment for these students and emphasized the need for regular medical check-ups, counseling, and therapeutic support to ensure their overall well-being.
The school currently caters to 98 students, 35 of whom are specially-abled, with the support of four specialized teachers. The institution also offers targeted therapy sessions, including occupational and physical therapy, four days a week to address the unique needs of these children.
During his interaction with staff and students, several concerns were raised, including the need for more teaching staff, speech therapists, physiotherapists, drivers, sweepers, and a permanent hostel warden. Justice Tashi assured the school that he would take up these issues with the Ladakh administration at the highest level for prompt resolution.
He expressed admiration for the school’s staff, particularly Lamo, the hostel warden, for her dedication in caring for the specially-abled children and fostering an inclusive learning atmosphere. Justice Tashi reiterated his commitment to enhancing the school’s facilities and programs to ensure that every child is valued and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The visit underscores the judiciary’s commitment to promoting inclusive education and addressing the unique challenges faced by specially-abled children in Ladakh, reflecting broader efforts to empower marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.(KINS)

