In a major step towards inclusive education, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced that the Punjab School Education Board has established special arrangements for differently-abled students appearing in annual examinations starting February 17, 2026.
Speaking in Chandigarh, the minister said that the Bhagwant Mann-led government has set up 3,255 special examination centers across Punjab for 6,695 differently-abled students. Out of these, 2,804 centers have been designed for individual students to ensure a stress-free and personalized exam environment.
He emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students. “Our goal is not just to conduct exams but to ensure dignity and equality for every child. We are committed to creating an environment where differently-abled students feel empowered,” he said.
In line with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the board has provided facilities such as scribes, extra time, ground-floor exam halls with ramps, accessible infrastructure, separate quiet rooms, large-print question papers, and medical assistance where required.
Calling this initiative a milestone, the minister stated that it reflects the government’s commitment to building a fair and inclusive society. He added that the Punjab government is dedicated to empowering every student with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.
Chairman of the Punjab School Education Board, Dr. Amarpal Singh, said that special guidelines have been issued to all center superintendents and staff to ensure sensitivity and efficiency in conducting exams. He noted that the network of special centers covers 11 categories of disabilities and will help students access higher education and employment opportunities.
