Section 12 of the Right to Education Act – reservation of at least 25% of seats in government-aided, private unaided and special schools for children from weaker sections and disadvantaged groups – provides the clearest indication of the Government’s vision of social inclusion. This section stands out as the harbinger of educational equality by creating opportunities for underprivileged children to study in private schools. The first session of the Conference will explore the challenges to the implementation of Section 12. The speakers in this session will present their expert views on the best practices to ensure successful implementation of this provision. Similar schemes that have been implemented within India and around the world will be discussed.