AI for Empowering PwDs’ Conference to Spotlight Inclusive Innovation through Artificial Intelligence
Bengaluru : In a significant move to harness the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for social inclusion, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), is set to organize the landmark conference ‘AI for Empowering PwDs’ on 30th May 2025 in Bengaluru.
The conference aims to highlight the transformative role of AI in building inclusive, accessible, and assistive solutions for persons with disabilities (PwDs). The event will gather a diverse assembly of academicians, technologists, innovators, policymakers, startups, and global stakeholders to showcase and deliberate on cutting-edge AI innovations that enhance the lives of PwDs.
Key Highlights of the Conference:
The event will open with a special address by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary (DEPwD), joined by eminent experts Prof. P.V.M. Rao (IIT Delhi) and Prof. Venu Govindaraju (University at Buffalo, USA).
Several major national initiatives will be unveiled, including:
Mission AI Accessibility
Mission AI: Implementation of AI in Assistive Technology and Tools
National Disability Support AI Chatbot
Unified Benefits Interface (UBI)
Panel Discussions and Technical Sessions:
Innovations for an Inclusive India: Featuring voices from premier institutions and organizations such as IIT, AIIMS, OpenAI, Anuvadini, CSIO, Sarvam AI, and Karya Inc.
Assistive Technology Leveraging AI: With participation from Microsoft, Lenovo, Bhashini, StackGen, EquiBeing Foundation, and others.
Inspiring Experience Sharing:
Real-life stories of transformation will be shared by entrepreneurs and changemakers including Ekansh Aggarwal (Svar Smart Solutions), Gopikrishnan S. (Sunva.AI), Arman Ali (NCPEDP), and others, demonstrating the life-changing impact of AI-powered assistive technologies.
Technology Demonstrations:
Innovative assistive tools from Indian and international startups will be showcased. Participants include:
Dot Inc (South Korea)
Torchit
Sunbots Innovations
Sohum Innovation Labs
Indic AI
Barrier Break
Khyaal, among others.
These demonstrations, including winners of the India AI Challenge (MeitY), will focus on developmental, visual, hearing, and multi-disability solutions.
Cultural Showcase:
Adding an artistic flourish, Miracles on Wheels will present a specially curated cultural performance celebrating talent, creativity, and resilience among PwDs.
Closing Address & Strategic Outlook:
The conference will conclude with an interactive Q&A session, followed by a ‘Way Forward’ address by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, setting the tone for future strategies and collaborations in inclusive AI development.
This pioneering initiative promises to be a catalyst for change, opening new frontiers in accessibility and digital empowerment for millions of persons with disabilities across India and beyond.
