Thane, September 2026 : It is essential to make education inclusive so that every student feels a sense of belonging and receives respect in the classroom, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Sunday. He stressed that an inclusive classroom environment is necessary to ensure the holistic development of students and provide equal opportunities to all.
Speaking at the launch of Dr Revati Srinivasan’s book Creating Classrooms Where Every Child Belongs, Shinde said he was confident that the book would serve as a guiding light for teachers, parents and everyone associated with the education sector.
“Dr Revati Srinivasan’s work is a matter of pride for Thane. Her book will serve as an important guide for teachers, parents and all stakeholders in the field of education,” Shinde said.
Lok Sabha MP Naresh Mhaske, Sub-Divisional Officer Hemangini Patil, education-sector dignitaries, teachers and citizens were present at the event.
Dr Srinivasan has contributed continuously to the education sector for the past three decades. Along with working with mainstream students, she has undertaken various initiatives and established therapy centres for children with special needs as well as those from rural and disadvantaged communities. Her efforts have focused on bringing such children into the mainstream and providing them with greater opportunities for development.
Shinde said Dr Srinivasan’s recognition at the House of Lords in London and the educational legacy she has created were achievements that made the people of Thane proud.
During the programme, Shinde also recalled his association with the late Dharmaveer Anand Dighe. He remembered occasions when ordinary party workers and parents would approach him with requests related to school admissions, following which he would personally visit schools to address their concerns.
Dr Srinivasan also shared her thoughts at the event. She said the true purpose of education goes beyond literacy and should focus on identifying the potential of every child while giving them the confidence and strength to live with dignity in society.
She emphasised the need to make sustained efforts for children with special needs, as well as those from rural and socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. According to her, specialised therapy centres and innovative educational programmes can play an important role in helping these children integrate into the mainstream and giving them a new direction in life.
The book launch highlighted the importance of inclusive education and the need to create classrooms where every child is valued, respected and provided equal opportunities to learn and grow.
