On March 17, 1991, Tapovan's journey began with the training of just six mentally challenged children in a rented house. Two trainers agreed to provide services at that time. The founders of Tapovan had a dream that seemed like a bubble of water - beautiful, elegant, and captivating. But the fear of the bubble's short lifespan loomed over the dream initially. The possibility of the dream shattering due to the difficulties at every step was imminent. However, with people's cooperation and willingness to walk hand-in-hand, a caravan was formed, and the dream began to take shape. Today, the world witnesses the transformation of that dream into reality.

The then-District Collector and Administrator of UIT, Shri K.S. Galundiya, understood Tapovan's efforts and provided land in Jawahar Nagar for the education of mentally challenged children. The then-Minister of Rajasthan Government, Hon. Mr. Harishankar Bhawda, Hon. Mr. Kundan Lal Miglani, Additional District Collector Mr. Lalit Mehra, Mr. Vaidya Rameshwar Dutt Sharma, Swami Brahmadev Ji, and MLA Professor Kedar Sharma, along with prominent citizens of the city, laid the foundation stone of the building. The foundation of Trust Building was laid by Shukr Tala's Tapobhumi Sant Padam Shri Swami Kalyan Dev Ji Maharaj and renowned storyteller Shri Ramesh Bhai Ojha."

Special School

Established in 1991, Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya has empowered over 5,000 children with disabilities to integrate into mainstream society through its free services. Currently, the school has more than 140 students, including those with intellectual disabilities, locomotive disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, hearing impairments, and low vision. Located in Village 4ML, Sri Ganganagar. The school's campus spans six bighas. Fully funded by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Rajasthan, the school provides completely free education and services.

The school boasts a team of:

• 14 special educators
• 2 vocational trainers
• 1 sports coach
• 1 music teacher
• 1 physiotherapist
• 2 speech therapists
• 2 psychologists

Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya is committed to providing holistic education and empowerment to children with disabilities, helping them reach their full potential.

Hostel

In 2000, Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya established a residential facility for its students. Currently, sixty-four boys and girls reside in the hostel, benefiting from its facilities. Separate accommodations are provided for boys and girls within the hostel. The hostel is fully funded and operated by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and is completely free of cost. The hostel currently employs fourteen staff members.

The hostel offers:

• A home-like atmosphere
• Family-like environment
• Home-cooked meals
• Round-the-clock care and supervision

This ensures that students experience comfort and support akin to their own homes, at all times.

Vocational Unit

At Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya, children above 14 years of age are imparted vocational training to empower them with self-sufficiency. To achieve this, the school operates a vocational training center for boys and girls, where professional trainers teach various skills.

Girls are taught:

• Sewing
• Embroidery
• Knitting
• Mehndi application
• Art and craft

Boys are taught:

• Agriculture
• Shoe-making
• Carpentry
• Retail management
• Candle-making
• Copywriting
• File binding
• Photostatting

The vocational training center provides financial assistance to the differently-abled children. Products made by the children are sold in the open market, and the economic benefits are deposited into their accounts in the form of Fixed Deposits.

Physiotherapy

Children with intellectual disabilities often face motor and physical coordination issues. To address this, Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya provides specialized medical exercises and equipment tailored to their disabilities, empowering them to become self-sufficient.

The school treats children with:

• Physical disabilities
• Cerebral palsy
• Other motor-related issues

In addition to its students, the school also offers medical treatment and counseling to external patients. Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya has a well-equipped physiotherapy department, providing comprehensive care and support.

Speech & Audiology

Children with intellectual disabilities often face difficulties in hearing, speaking, and understanding. To address this, Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya provides comprehensive speech therapy services.

The school offers:

• Hearing and language assessment
• Speech therapy
• Identification and diagnosis of speech disorders
• Treatment and rehabilitation

Aims to overcome speech defects and improve communication skills. Periodic health camps are organized, and counseling is provided by expert doctors.

Psychology

Our psychological department plays a vital role in special education by providing comprehensive support to students, teachers, and parents.

Assessment and Diagnosis

1. Identifying learning disabilities and developmental delays.
2. Conducting psychological assessments to determine cognitive, emotional, and behavioral strengths and weaknesses.
3. Developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Interventions and Therapies

1. Counseling (individual and group) to address emotional and behavioral issues.
2. Behavioral interventions to manage challenging behaviors.
3. Social skills training to enhance interpersonal relationships.
4. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to improve coping mechanisms.

Support for Teachers and Parents

1. Providing training on inclusive teaching practices.
2. Offering guidance on behavioral management.
3. Collaborating with teachers to develop strategies for students with special needs.
4. Supporting parents through counseling and workshops.

Research and Development

1. Conducting research on effective teaching methods.
2. Developing and implementing evidence-based interventions.
3. Staying updated on best practices in special education.

Other Services

1. Crisis intervention and management.
2. Consultation with other professionals (e.g., occupational therapists, speech therapists).
3. Referral services for additional support.

The psychological department's expertise ensures that students with special needs receive:

1. Tailored support to address unique challenges.
2. Enhanced academic and social skills.
3. Improved mental health and well-being.
4. Better transition planning for post-school life.

Sports

After providing education and training to children with disabilities, Tapovan School focuses on their physical development through sports. To nurture their sporting talents and enhance their skills, the school has taken special initiatives.

Indoor games:

• Table tennis
• Badminton
• Chess
• Carrom
• Ludo

Outdoor games:

• High jump
• Long jump
• Shot put
• Football
• Basketball
• Cycling
• Handball
• Volleyball
• Cricket

Regular practice has yielded remarkable results, with students excelling in their respective fields and bringing glory to their country at the international level.

Rajesh Verma won a gold medal at the Special Olympics Games in Shanghai, China (2008).

Amritpal won a gold medal in the race at the Special Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia (2012).

Students have won numerous national and international competitions, earning accolades for themselves, their school, and their country. Currently, many students have been selected for national competitions.

Music and Yoga

Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya has a dedicated Music and Yoga Department, which plays a vital role in the holistic development of children with special needs.

Music Department

• Trained musicians nurture musical talents in children.
• Music helps develop concentration and interest in children with special needs.
• Children engage enthusiastically in activities.
• Music therapy enhances emotional and social skills.

Yoga Department

• Daily yoga sessions are conducted, beginning with morning prayers.
• Yoga improves physical abilities and flexibility.
• Yoga therapy benefits children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
• Yoga develops focus, stability, and concentration.
• Yoga enhances mental well-being and stress management.

Through these departments, Tapovan Manovikas Vidyalaya provides comprehensive support for children with special needs, fostering their overall growth and development.