PUNE: The JCB Literature Foundation in collaboration with Access For ALL, unveiled its unique Accessible Learning Box – Sugamya Qissa Pitara, on Monday in Pune at the Dnyangangotri Residential School. After initiating its resource centers in Delhi at the Samadhan Centre in January, second in Jaipur’s Umang School in February, and third in Baroda’s Arpan Charitable Trust, this is the Foundation’s fourth such effort.
Making reading inclusive, the Pitara is not just a learning tool; it’s a transformative experience. Featuring diverse tools such as large font, sensory, quiet, and behavioral books, and tactile devices tailored for special needs, the initiative addresses the unique requirements of visually impaired children and those with learning disabilities. Crafted with Universal Design principles, each Sugamya Qissa Pitara is flexible, safe, and easy to use, featuring vibrant, artist-created furniture that adds an inclusive touch to the learning environment.
Talking about the initiative, Manish Tayal, Director, of the JCB Literature Foundation, said, “This is a milestone moment for us at the JCB Literature Foundation, not just because it’s being done for the first time- an accessible resource center for those with special needs, but because of the impact such a project has on the lives of people. The project is not just aimed at making the lives of children easier, but also that of the parents, primary caregivers, and educators. We have piloted this project in Delhi, Jaipur, Baroda, and now in Pune in the first year and hope to take this forward in more locations in the future.”
Extending beyond the classroom, Sugamya Qissa Pitara supports parents and caregivers with new books, activity sheets, and specialized training by Inclusive Learning Experts. Specially crafted caregivers’ manuals in Hindi and English provide invaluable insights and support for fostering effective learning environments at home.
According to UNESCO, there are more than 78 lakh children with disabilities in India between 5-19 years. While 61% of them were attending an educational institution, about 12% had dropped out and 27% had never been to school at all. Recognizing the urgent need for inclusivity and accessible education, this initiative aims to bring joy and accessibility to education for children with special needs across the country. With a shared vision of empowering every child, this innovative learning solution seeks to bridge gaps and create a more inclusive reading landscape.
