The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), part of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is organizing the International Week of the Deaf (IWDeaf) from September 20 to 26, 2025. The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), an autonomous body under DEPwD, is leading the celebrations. ISLRTC focuses on research, training, and promoting awareness about Indian Sign Language (ISL) across the country. During IWDeaf, the centre will host various activities based on special themes to celebrate and support the deaf community.
International Week of the Deaf Theme 2025
The theme for the International Week of Deaf People (IWDP) 2025 is “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.” This theme highlights that the full enjoyment of human rights for deaf individuals is closely tied to their right to use sign language. The week, including International Day of Sign Languages on September 23, focuses on empowering deaf communities to lead the way, promote accessibility, and advocate for inclusive education.
International Day of Sign Languages
International Day of Sign Languages is observed on September 23, 2025, as declared by the United Nations to raise awareness about the importance of sign language in the realization of the human rights of deaf people United Nations. The following initiatives will be taken this year:
- The introduction of Video Relay Services is a major step in improving communication accessibility for deaf individuals.
- Creating sign language videos to explain financial and banking terms helps promote financial literacy within the deaf community.
- Implementing Indian Sign Language (ISL) courses in special schools for the Speech and Hearing Impaired supports better communication and inclusion.
- Launching a self-paced ISL course empowers individuals to learn at their own pace, encouraging broader use of sign language.
History of International Week of the Deaf
The International Week of the Deaf is an annual event celebrated worldwide during the last full week of September. Its origins can be traced back to 1958 in Rome, Italy, where the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) held its first World Congress. Key Milestones in the history of International Week of the Deaf are as follows:
| Year/Period | Milestone/Significance |
| 1958 | World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) holds its first World Congress in Rome; International Week of the Deaf is established. |
| 1960s–1970s | The Week gains momentum within the Deaf community, with national associations organizing various activities and events. |
| 1980s–1990s | Focus shifts to raising public awareness about Deaf culture, sign language, and challenges faced by the community. |
| 2009 | International Week of the Deaf is officially recognized by the United Nations. |
| 2018 | The Week aligns with the first official International Day of Sign Languages, declared by the UN. |
Significance of International Week of the Deaf
The International Week of the Deaf emphasizes the importance of sign language, inclusion, and community support, encouraging everyone to recognize and respect the contributions of Deaf people in society. Below are the significance mentioned:
- The Week educates the public about Deaf culture, language, and the unique experiences of Deaf individuals.
- It advocates for equal rights in education, employment, communication, and societal participation for Deaf people.
- The Week celebrates the achievements and resilience of Deaf individuals across various fields.
- It fosters unity and collaboration within the global Deaf community.
- It inspires young Deaf individuals to embrace their identity and pursue their dreams.
Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC)
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, was established in 2011. Its primary aim is to promote the use of Indian Sign Language (ISL) as a medium of education for deaf students across primary, secondary, and higher education levels. The ISLRTC is playing a vital role in promoting the use of ISL and improving the lives of deaf people in India. It is a valuable resource for the deaf community and for all those who are interested in learning about ISL.
The ISLRTC is located in New Delhi and has a team of highly qualified and experienced professionals. It offers a variety of courses and programs in ISL, including:
- Certificate Course in Indian Sign Language
- Diploma Course in Indian Sign Language
- Post Graduate Diploma Course in Indian Sign Language
- Master of Arts in Indian Sign Language
20th September 2025 Special Day
From September 20 to 26, 2025, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is joining hands with various organizations to observe the International Week of the Deaf (IWDeaf). The initiative focuses on spreading awareness and promoting inclusion for the deaf community. It encourages collective efforts to empower persons with disabilities and build an inclusive society that values and celebrates the unique contributions of every individual.
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FAQs
Ans. The International Week of the Deaf 2025 will be celebrated from 20th to 26th September.
Ans. In India, it is organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, along with associated organizations like ISLRTC.
Ans. The theme for 2025 is “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.”
Ans. It raises awareness about Deaf culture, promotes the use of sign language, and advocates for equal rights, accessibility, and inclusion of the deaf community.
Ans. The International Day of Sign Languages will be observed on 23rd September 2025 as part of the week-long celebration.
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