Ensure extra time for students with type 1 diabetes nationwide in public exams: CPI(M) MP writes to Dharmendra Pradhan

New Delhi: CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP AA Rahim has urged Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to ensure special provisions like additional time for public examination for students with Type 1 diabetes across the country in a uniform manner.

In his letter to Pradhan on Friday, Rahim said such students are facing challenges due to their medical condition and the physical and mental strain often exacerbates during exams, placing additional stress on them.

Juvenile diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires consistent monitoring and management, including regular glucose level checks, insulin administration and diet control, he said.

Rahim said Kerala government has issued orders granting such students an additional 20 minutes per hour during public examinations, along with permission to carry essential items like insulin, glucometer and snacks into examination halls. He said the CBSE has also acknowledged it allowing similar provisions. 

“However, there is a pressing need for uniform policies across all educational boards and states to ensure that every child with Type 1 Diabetes is treated equitably,” he said urging Pradhan to instruct all state boards and central educational bodies like CBSE to adopt a standardised  policy granting additional time and facilities to such students during exams.

Rahim also wanted the Ministry of Education to issue orders ensuring that necessary medical supplies, including glucose monitoring devices, snacks, and insulin, are permitted in examination halls.

There is also a need to create awareness about the unique needs of such students to foster an inclusive and supportive environment, he said adding, “these measures would not only alleviate undue stress for the students and their families but also align with the principles of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.