President Droupadi Murmu ignited hope for millions with speech and hearing disabilities, declaring advanced technology as a game-changer during the diamond jubilee celebrations of the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Mysuru. She called for a revolution in developing and manufacturing cutting-edge devices like cochlear implants in India to make them accessible to all.
"Early detection and expert care are crucial for addressing speech and hearing challenges," Murmu emphasised, urging society to foster compassion and inclusivity. She praised AIISH’s pioneering ‘inclusive therapy park’ for children with communication disorders, a model gaining global recognition, and its ‘AIISH Arogya Vani’ initiative for promoting early identification.
Murmu envisioned AIISH as a beacon for policymaking on communication disorders and a leader in innovation. “The latest technologies can transform lives, but we must manufacture these devices domestically to ensure affordability,” she said, spotlighting the need for self-reliance in producing life-changing tools like cochlear implants.
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She also urged AIISH to drive research and collaborate with top institutions to empower those with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to society. “Institutions like AIISH must blend innovation with compassion to create a brighter future,” she added.
Murmu highlighted the government’s ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’, which is breaking barriers by making public spaces and information accessible, signalling society’s care for the differently abled. During her visit, she connected with divyang children receiving treatment and celebrated success stories of AIISH alumni thriving in various fields.
Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot echoed her vision, stressing the need to standardise Indian Sign Language globally for greater inclusion. He highlighted the government’s cochlear implant scheme and the development of an Indian Sign Language dictionary under the ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ mantra. Gehlot also pointed to the transformative potential of AI, digital therapy, and tele-audiology in revolutionising care for speech and hearing impairments.
With technology paving the way, Murmu and Gehlot’s call to action signals a bold new era for inclusivity and empowerment in India.
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