Special Educators in Indian Schools: Policy Framework and Current Status (2026)
The Samagra Shiksha scheme guides the recruitment, posting and service conditions of CwSN in schools. The Ministry of Education answered a parliamentary query on 12 August 2026, outlining the existing infrastructure, norms and future steps for special educators.
Key Developments (Bullet Points)
- Notification No. S.O. 4586(E) dated 21 Sept 2022 (published 29 Sept 2022) fixes the PTR for special educators: 1 special educator per 10 CwSN in primary and 1 per 15 CwSN in upper‑primary.
- Financial assistance under PM SHRI supports two resource persons for CwSN at each Block Resource Centre (BRC).
- As per UDISE+ 2025‑26, 1.17 lakh schools have a dedicated special educator, covering 2,211,226 enrolled CwSN across India.
- Capacity building through NISHTHA modules, NCERT & CBSE handbooks, and two credit courses on inclusive education in the Four‑Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme.
- The RCI has approved 1,081 institutions to produce qualified special educators and other rehabilitation professionals.
Important Facts
State‑wise data shows that 116,695 schools have a dedicated special educator. The highest enrolments of CwSN are in Uttar Pradesh (372,739) and Mahar