Receives National Award from Hon’ble President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Marking a New Milestone in India’s Inclusion Movement
India is celebrating a defining moment for its inclusive education landscape as Shri Rajeev Bhatt, one of the nation’s most respected authorities on learning disabilities, has been honoured with the National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. The award, presented by Hon’ble President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan on December 3rd, recognises a remarkable three-decade journey dedicated to transforming the lives of children with diverse learning needs across the country.
For over 30 years, Rajeev Bhatt has been a pioneering force in India’s evolving understanding of neurodiversity. Long before terms like autism, dyslexia and ADHD entered mainstream discussions, he was already leading conversations in classrooms, communities and policy circles. His mission began at a time when awareness was scarce and stigma was overwhelming, yet he persisted—with research, advocacy and deeply compassionate intervention—to show that every child deserves dignity, acceptance and opportunity.
His early impact came into national focus when a young student, Aditya Bawa, made history in the Central Board of Secondary Education by receiving academic recognition despite severe learning disabilities. Guided closely by Rajeev, Aditya’s achievement led to a felicitation by former Prime Minister Shri I. K. Gujral. That moment became the starting point of a national movement—one that reshaped how India understood disability, inclusion and the right to learn.
In the years that followed, Rajeev travelled across states, towns and remote communities, empowering parents who had long struggled without answers. He trained educators to recognise the signs of learning disabilities, helping countless children who were previously misunderstood or overlooked. His advocacy encouraged schools to adopt practices that were once considered unconventional—approaches that today form the foundation of modern inclusive education.
As Director of the Adhyayan Inclusive Learning Centre, Rajeev Bhatt developed one of India’s most influential IEP-based systems (Individualised Education Program). Under his leadership, the centre became a model of strength-based learning—where children with autism, dyslexia, ADHD and other learning differences were supported not only academically but holistically, through social development, emotional growth, skill-building and life-readiness training.
The impact of this approach is visible in the journeys of his students. Many who once doubted their abilities now work independently across hospitality, culinary arts, creative media, digital design, sports, fitness training and even professional music production. Several support their families; many inspire others. Their success stands as a testament to what the right environment and guidance can unlock.
Through his nationwide mission, Inclusive India, Rajeev encouraged society to look beyond labels. He championed the belief that disability does not define destiny—only the absence of opportunity does. Families often call him a miracle-maker. Educators call him a visionary. Children call him “Rajeev Sir” with the kind of trust reserved for someone who helps them rediscover themselves.
This National Award is not just a personal honour—it signifies a deeper shift in India’s collective conscience. It reflects a growing commitment to ensure that every child, regardless of neurotype, finds acceptance, support and meaningful participation in society. It is also a tribute to the resilience of parents who fought for their children’s rights and the educators who stood with them.
As India moves forward with stronger policies and rising awareness in inclusive education, Rajeev Bhatt’s life’s work stands as a guide for what the future can be. His journey proves that when compassion replaces judgement and understanding replaces stigma, real change begins.
The honour he received on December 3rd is more than a milestone in his career—it is a celebration of every child whose life has been touched by his work. It is a celebration of an India that is steadily, courageously becoming more inclusive. And it is a reminder that autism is not a barrier, dyslexia is not a weakness, and learning differences do not limit potential. Every child carries a spark within—and with the right guidance, they don’t just find their place in the world, they transform it.
