(MOREPIC1) Face2News/Chandigarh
The Bhagwant Mann Government has made comprehensive arrangements to facilitate specially abled students appearing in the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) annual examinations, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains informed on Wednesday, as the annual board examinations commenced from February 17, 2026.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that in a major step towards inclusive education, the state government has established 3,255 special examination centres across Punjab exclusively for 6,695 students with unique abilities, ensuring that every student can participate in the examination process with dignity and confidence.
He informed that out of the total 3,255 special centres, 2,804 have been established for a single student each, ensuring a personalised, stress-free and conducive examination environment for those requiring specialised attention.
Harjot Singh Bains said, “Our government is built on the strong pillars of inclusive education. Our objective extends beyond merely conducting examinations. It is about ensuring respect, honour and equality for every child. We are committed to creating an environment where our Divyang students feel empowered and supported.”
Aligning with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, Harjot Singh Bains said that the Punjab School Education Board has ensured accommodations including scribes and extra time as per individual requirements, ground-floor examination halls with ramps and barrier-free access, separate quiet rooms to minimise distraction, large print question papers and other accessible formats, along with medical support wherever required.
Calling the initiative a significant milestone, Harjot Singh Bains said, “This is a significant milestone in our journey towards creating a just and equitable society. The Punjab government remains fully committed to empowering every student with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”
Chairman PSEB Dr. Amarpal Singh said that specific guidelines have been issued to all Centre Superintendents and staff to discharge their duties with utmost sensitivity and care. “This network of special centres, covering 11 categories of disabilities, reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment to inclusive education and will help students pursue quality higher education and employment opportunities,” he added.