There was a time when persons with disabilities were looked upon as a burden on the society. They could survive only on charity. Hence they were largely neglected. However, late in the 20th century, this view underwent a change. The world realized that persons with disabilities could turn out to be excellent human resource, if they are properly supported and trained. They can also greatly contribute to the development of the society and these human beings also have full right to Equality and non-discrimination.

But, the care and education of disabled persons in the country could become a reality only if that was supported by legal sanctions. And this happened when the Parliament of India passed the “Rehabilitation Council of India Act .1992" & “Persons with Disability, Equal Opportunity Protection of Rights and Full Participation Act 1995". It is a matter of pride that India is one of those few countries in the world where development of human resources for the care and education of persons with disability has a primary focus.

A further boost to this noble cause came about when the United Nations General Assembly adopted its Convention of ‘Rights of Persons with Disabilities’ on the 13th day of December 2006. India is a signatory to the said Convention and ratified it on the 1st day of October 2007. This Convention lays down the following Principles for the Empowerment of persons with disabilities:

• Respect for inherent dignity
• Nondiscrimination
• Full & Effective Participation & Inclusiveness in Society
• Respect for difference & acceptance of persons with disabilities as a part of human diversity and humanity.
• Equality of opportunity
• Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respectfor their rights to preserve their identities.

Meerut Children Welfare Trust was set up for the education and rehabilitation of children with intellectual disabilities (mentally challenged). It runs a School of Special Educationfor intellectually disabled since 1994. The Trust realized that the country lackstrained professionals who can effectively teach these children. Hence with the aimof training teachers who can impart wholesome education to the mentally challenged children, Meerut Institute of Special Education, was established in 2008 with a diploma course, "Diploma in Special Education in Intellectual Disability” D.Ed. SE (ID) &"B.Ed. in Special Education in Intellectual Disability” B.Ed. SE (ID) was started in 2016.