Role of Teachers in Inclusive Education in India

Abstract

Inclusive education is an approach that ensures the participation, learning and development of all children, including children with disabilities and those facing social, linguistic, economic or cultural disadvantages. In India, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, defines inclusive education as a system in which students with and without disabilities learn together and in which teaching-learning processes are suitably adapted to meet diverse learning needs. The success of this legal and policy vision depends substantially on teachers because they translate constitutional rights, educational policies and institutional provisions into everyday classroom practice. This article examines the role of teachers in inclusive education in India, with particular focus on teachers’ attitudes, differentiated pedagogy, curriculum adaptation, assessment, collaboration, assistive technology, family participation and professional development. It also discusses major challenges and suggests measures for strengthening teacher preparedness and school-level support.