The Maharashtra education department has announced that students suffering from type-1 diabetes in grades I to XII will now be allowed to consume snacks and take medication in the classroom and during examinations. This decision comes after the education department included these students in the special needs (disabled) category.
According to a communication from the education department, students using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM), and/or insulin pumps should be permitted to have these devices with them during exams. However, if a smartphone is being used for glucose monitoring, it should be kept with the teacher or invigilator.
This order was passed based on the recommendations made by the chairman of the National Commission for Child Rights in a semi-government order on March 23, 2021.
A state-level committee was formed to explore the use of teaching and adaptive assessment methods that cater to the learning style of students with special needs. Consequently, students with type-1 diabetes who require snacks during the morning or afternoon sessions will now be allowed to eat them in the classroom with the teacher’s permission. However, these students must obtain clearance from their doctor if they wish to participate in any sporting activities.
Furthermore, additional provisions will be made for students with type-1 diabetes during competitive and other examinations. They will be allowed to carry their medication with them.
The communication from the education department states, “Medicines, fruits, food, drinking water, biscuits, peanuts, or dry fruits brought by students should be kept with the teacher in the examination hall. If necessary, these items should be provided to the students during the examination.”
In type 1 diabetes, pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t produce it at all. Due to the lack of insulin, blood sugar cannot enter the cells and accumulates in the bloodstream. This elevated blood sugar level is harmful to the body and leads to various symptoms and complications associated with diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, which can happen due to an immune system reaction, can develop at any age.
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