Constitution In Braille Launched On Republic Day In Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Visually challenged students in Odisha can now access the Constitution in both audio and braille format.

The books were today launched by Odisha High court Chief Justice S Muralidhar at the National Law University campus in Cuttack on the occasion of the 73^rd Republic Day.

The audiobook format developed by VIEWS with the support of the Netherlands Embassy is of 16.8 hours duration while the Braille version comprises five volumes.

The audiobook is in Odia language and the Braille format is in English

“Students in general and especially those aspiring for competitive exams can greatly benefit from the book. In general, the book will educate the students about their rights, values and duties as citizens of this country,” said Sanyas Behera, president, Odisha Association for the Blind.

“It is heartening that the visually-impaired can finally access the Constitution- their basic statute. Such a move is truly beneficial and empowering, and more effort should be taken to publish other important books for the disabled communities both in braille and audio format,” said NLUO Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ved Kumari.

“Although efforts are being taken to help the visually challenged students, there continues to be visible resource crunch when it comes to braille books, tactile books and audiobooks and a lot more effort needs to be taken,” said Subhendu Mallick, a participant.

Notably, there are a total of 5.42 lakhs visually challenged persons in the state.

Audiobooks are slowly gaining popularity among the students for their ease of operation. “Unlike earlier, I need not depend on my family to read out to me. I can access the audiobooks any time, go back and forth to clear doubts if any. It is great to know that the Constitution is now available in Odia,” said Puspa, a visually challenged student.