National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD)

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD): It is an autonomous organization under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) is also important for UPSC Prelims Exam and UPSC Mains Exam (GS Paper 2- Social Issues and various government Institutes for the development of vulnerable sections of the population).

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD)

The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan) is located in Dehradun and falls under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Its primary focus is on educating and training visually impaired children. Over the years, the institute has successfully integrated these children into mainstream society and has seen them achieve impressive ranks in various examinations such as the CBSE Board and even civil services like UPSC.

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) Details

The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) is an autonomous organization under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. It is dedicated to providing education, training, rehabilitation, and research services to persons with visual disabilities. Here are some key details about NIEPVD:

NIEPVD Objectives

The primary objectives of National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) are:

• To empower persons with visual disabilities through education, training, rehabilitation, and employment opportunities.
• To promote research and development in the field of visual disability.
• To provide consultancy and technical support for the welfare of persons with visual disabilities.
• To create awareness and sensitization about visual disabilities in society.

Functions of NIEPVD

The institute conducts ongoing research to develop training programs for individuals with different disabilities, not limited to visual impairments. This broadens their scope of assistance beyond visually impaired children and adults.

• Furthermore, the institute aims to cultivate human resources capable of sharing their knowledge and helping others in different regions of the country.
• Presently, the institute not only conducts research and training but also houses an intermediate level college affiliated with the CBSE board.
  • This college provides education from primary to intermediate levels to visually impaired children from all over the country. There are currently 254 registered children across different classes.
  • These children are selected at a young age through online applications and reside in the hostel within the college campus.
• In addition to academic education, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan) conducts skill development activities and houses the Central Braille Press.
• The institute is also responsible for producing special ballots used in General Elections.
• It provides training for B.Ed and D.Ed, enabling graduates to train visually impaired individuals nationwide.
• Research holds a significant position within the institute, which has even developed a special chess board for blind children.

Services Offered by NIEPVD

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) offers a range of services to individuals with visual disabilities, including:

• Special education programs for children with visual impairments.
• Vocational training programs to develop skills and enhance employment opportunities.
• Rehabilitation services to facilitate independent living and social integration.
• Research and development initiatives to advance knowledge and solutions for visual disabilities.
• Assistive technology support and provision of aids and appliances.
• Counseling and guidance for individuals and their families.

Courses and Training Provided by NIEPVD

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) offers various courses and training programs in the field of visual disabilities. These include:

• Diploma programs in Special Education (Visual Impairment), Rehabilitation Psychology, and Early Intervention.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in Special Education (Visual Impairment).
• Short-term training courses on orientation and mobility, low vision, braille, etc.
• Teacher training programs to prepare educators for teaching students with visual disabilities.

Research and Development Activities in NIEPVD

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) focuses on research and development activities related to visual disabilities. It undertakes research projects, collaborates with other institutions, and conducts studies to improve understanding, techniques, and interventions for the empowerment of persons with visual disabilities.

NIEPVD Resource Center

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) operates as a resource center for individuals, organizations, and government agencies working in the field of visual disabilities. It provides expertise, consultancy, and technical support on matters related to education, rehabilitation, accessibility, policy formulation, and implementation.

NIEPVD Outreach Programs

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) conducts various outreach programs to create awareness about visual disabilities and promote inclusive practices. It organizes workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to sensitize the community and advocate for the rights and needs of persons with visual disabilities.

NIEPVD Conclusion

The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities plays a crucial role in empowering individuals with visual disabilities, ensuring their inclusion in society, and promoting equal opportunities for their education and employment.

Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), Promoting Human Resource Development in Special Education and the Disability Sector

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