Kochi: The National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) in Kerala is gearing up to launch five innovative assistive technology (AT) products designed to improve the lives of differently-abled individuals. Social Justice Minister R Bindu emphasized the significance of developing such products domestically to enhance the quality of life for the differently-abled.
The upcoming products, currently in the trial phase, cater to a diverse range of needs. These include transfer devices for paralysis patients, ergonomic chairs tailored for the pediatric population, accessible plugs for the visually impaired, vibrating alerts for the hearing impaired, and adaptive mouse technology. The initiative is spearheaded by the National Centre for Assistive Health Technology (NCAHT), a specialized division funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research, aimed at fostering regional, national, and global innovations in assistive technology. The project is implemented by NISH.
Minister R Bindu remarked, “Developing products and technologies indigenously can make the lives of the differently-abled better.”
NISH has expanded its focus from communication disorders to include technologies for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with cerebral palsy. Collaboration with institutions like IIT Madras and other national research bodies has bolstered the development of such technologies.
Arya Manoharan, primary co-investigator of NCAHT at NISH, highlighted the institute’s patient-centric approach to AT development. Insights from patients and clinics inform the research and development process, ensuring that the technologies meet real-world needs. NISH is particularly focused on manufacturing ATs in communication and mobility.
The institute has forged partnerships with facilities such as FabLab and the Manufacturing Repairing Servicing and Training Centre, operated under the Kerala State Handicapped Persons Welfare Corporation, to facilitate manufacturing once the products pass through the analysis phase.
As NISH continues its mission to empower the differently-abled community, Minister R Bindu underscored the importance of ongoing research and training programs tailored to their needs.