Navneet Education Introduces Colour Blindness Detection Books

Navneet Education, one of India’s largest and most trusted schoolbook publishers, has launched an innovative new initiative to address an often-overlooked learning challenge—Colour Vision Deficiency (CVD), commonly known as colour blindness. The initiative has been conceptualised by FCB Group India and developed in close collaboration with ophthalmological experts and educators. Since 2022, Navneet Education and FCB Group India have partnered to bring purposeful innovation to education—crafting impactful ideas rooted in empathy and insight.

The company has designed an early learning book not just to teach—but to detect. The new Colour Blindness Detection Book subtly integrates Ishihara-style colour vision tests into illustrations, enabling teachers and parents to identify potential colour vision deficiencies in children during the foundational years of education.

“There are an estimated 10 million children in India with colour vision deficiency,” said Dr Malgi, a leading ophthalmologist associated with the project. “Most of them go undiagnosed for years because the condition doesn’t visibly disrupt learning. But in reality, it affects confidence, participation, and long-term academic performance.”

In early years, in subjects where colour is integral—math, science, geography, and art—colour-blind children often face confusion and embarrassment. Many are mislabelled as inattentive or slow learners when, in fact, they are unable to distinguish between specific colours. Early detection can help students receive the proper support through guidance and alternate learning strategies.

“It’s rare to find a design solution that feels so seamless and necessary,” said Rakesh Menon, chief creative officer, FCB Interface. “By building it into the first books children learn from, we can diagnose the problem early and provide the required support."

“As a publisher shaping the minds of millions, we felt it was our responsibility to make early learning more inclusive,” said Devish Gala, director of branding, marketing and sales at Navneet Education. “By embedding colour vision tests into the books children already use, we ensure that no child gets left behind.”

This move by Navneet Education marks a critical shift in how India addresses hidden learning barriers—using design thinking, educational innovation, and empathy to support every learner.