On this day, let us recognise the power of communication and the indispensable role sign languages play in bridging the gap for the deaf-mute community
Every year, on September 23rd, the world unites to observe the International Day of Sign Languages, acknowledging the vital role sign languages play in our global society. This year, with the theme "A World Where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere!," we contemplate the significance of sign languages in reshaping the world, especially in a context where communication is an integral part of our daily lives.
Communication forms the lifeblood of our interconnected world, serving as the foundation for building relationships, sharing ideas, and engaging in the intricate processes that shape our societies. Yet, for the millions of individuals worldwide who are deaf or hard of hearing, accessing this fundamental human right can be challenging. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), currently, over 1.5 billion people, nearly 20% of the global population, live with hearing loss, and 430 million of them experience disabling hearing loss. Alarmingly, it is projected that by 2050, this number could exceed 700 million people with disabling hearing loss.
The deaf community in India constitutes a significant portion of the population, with a diverse and vibrant culture. India has the largest deaf population in the world. As per WHO estimates in India, there are approximately 63 million people, who are suffering from Significant Auditory Impairment; this places the estimated prevalence at 6.3% in the Indian population.
Despite the challenges they face, the deaf community in India has made considerable strides in recent years. The Indian Sign Language (ISL) is recognized as one of the officially recognized languages of India, which has helped promote communication and inclusion among the deaf population. Additionally, various NGOs, government initiatives, and educational institutions have been working tirelessly to improve access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for the deaf.
In terms of education, there are specialised schools and institutions across the country that cater to the needs of deaf students, offering tailored curricula and sign language instruction. However, there is still a need for more inclusive education practices and increased awareness about the rights and potential of deaf individuals.
Efforts are also being made to empower the deaf community through vocational training and employment opportunities, ensuring they can lead fulfilling and independent lives. Indian sign language interpreters play a crucial role in facilitating communication between the deaf and hearing communities in various settings, including government offices, hospitals, and educational institutions.
Indeed, the deaf community in India is a significant and dynamic part of the country's diverse population. While there have been positive developments in terms of recognition and inclusion, ongoing efforts are needed to further improve the quality of life and opportunities for deaf individuals in India. Accurate and up-to-date statistics will be essential to track the progress and tailor interventions to better meet the needs of this vibrant community.
For this vast community, sign languages act as a conduit to participate in the broader narrative of global communication. Sign languages are not just tools of communication; they are intricate and vibrant linguistic systems in their own right, featuring distinctive grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. They provide the means through which deaf individuals convey their thoughts, share their stories, and connect with the world around them. On the International Day of Sign Languages, we celebrate the diversity of these languages and the sense of unity they foster among the global deaf community.
India, being the most populous nation globally, also has the largest deaf population and therefore it is our collective responsibility to address their needs and aspirations. We have made significant strides in assistive technology, and there must be a decisive push to enable larger access to these technologies for the deaf population. With its inbuilt rich dynamics, the addition of technology will make sign language more profound and relevant. It's also essential for the country to view disabilities as an investment to promote their integration into mainstream society.
In the same vein, it is important to emphasize that achieving inclusion cannot occur in isolation. An ecosystem must be created to facilitate two-way communication through sign language. The responsibility lies not only with the deaf community but with society as a whole. Sign language should be integrated into the standard school curriculum to ensure that everyone becomes proficient in this language and skill. Just as foreign languages are taught in schools, there's no reason why Indian Sign Language shouldn't be part of the curriculum.
The significance of sign language reaches beyond everyday conversations. In an increasingly interconnected and diverse world, sign languages are pivotal in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement. They empower deaf individuals to access quality education, pursue meaningful careers, make informed healthcare decisions, and participate in the political and social life of their communities. Without sign languages, millions would find themselves excluded, unable to fully engage in society.
To ensure that government proceedings and policies are accessible to the deaf community, it should be mandatory to have a sign language interpreter at every government event. This way, a significant portion of the population would not miss out on essential government information and programs.
In a world that prides itself on progress and inclusivity, such oversights should be deemed unacceptable. The International Day of Sign Languages serves as a stark reminder of the imperative for governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity in all facets of society. It is a day when we should reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that sign languages are accessible to all, everywhere.
As we commemorate the International Day of Sign Languages in 2023, let us recognize the power of communication and the indispensable role sign languages play in bridging the gap for the deaf community. Let us also advocate for increased awareness, investment, and action to guarantee that sign languages are accessible to everyone, everywhere. Only through such collective endeavours can we genuinely create "A World Where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere!" and transform the global order for the better, making it a more inclusive and equitable place for all.
