Autism and Education: Bridging the Gap Between India and the West

When it comes to how children with autism are treated in schools, the contrast between India and many Western countries is more than just a difference in rules-it's a reflection of how India values human diversity.

- 

It's about how much people are willing to understand, adapt, and include those who experience the world differently.

INCLUSION: MORE THAN A POLICY

Inclusion is more than a buzzword in many Western classrooms-it's a commitment. Autism is officially recognised, and schools are required to provide individualised support. Whether it's a personalised learning plan, the presence of a trained aide, or placement in a supportive mainstream environment, the goal is clear and it states "Help each child thrive in his/her way." In India, while the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016 exists, proper understanding and implementation remain inconsistent. Special schools are available, but they're often costly and limited to urban areas. Rural families are left with a few options. And while it's spoken of inclusion, it usually doesn't go beyond paper.

LISTENING TO THE CHILD

One of the most powerful things one can do for any child is to listen. In many Western education systems, autistic children are encouraged to voice their preferences-how they learn, what helps them feel safe, what overwhelms them. And those preferences are taken seriously. In India, the existing system is still deeply top-down. It's expected that all children follow the same rigid path.