The Hans Foundation and the Centre of Excellence and Advanced Research for Childhood Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Child Neurology Division, Department of Paediatrics, AIIMS signed a collaboration agreement to carry out the project, Holding Hand in Magical Years: Early Childhood Development & Neurorehabilitation Centre. This is a revolutionary multidisciplinary programme that will offer youngsters with the resources they need to realise their full developmental potential based on their ability. Every year, the organisation hopes to benefit 10,000-12,000 children.
The overall prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in India is currently around 12%, with approximately one-fifth of them having more than one NDD. It is estimated that approximately 45% of these children with NDDs are at risk of delayed development due to a lack of identification and treatment.
Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Sandeep J Kapur, CEO of The Hans Foundation, stated, “We at THF are committed to the empowerment of people with disabilities and helping them lead independent and productive lives in their communities through holistic interventions.” Our initiative “Holding Hand in Magical Years” with AIIMS aims to address this issue by implementing a state-of-the-art facility where screening and early identification of children with developmental delay and other neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and specific learning disability (SLD) will be done, as well as administration of early intervention and supportive services. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that persons with disabilities have a meaningful life in an inclusive society with high humanistic values.
The Hans Foundation
“Several disabling or medical conditions and deterioration can be managed and their impact on life can be reduced if there is a comprehensive/intensive care system to screen, detect, and intervene with possible solutions at the right time in the paradigm of ensuring dignity and humanistic values,” said Professor M Srinivas, Director of AIIMS. The treatments provided will be tailored to the child’s specific needs and will include a comprehensive assessment and evaluation. It will also include speech and language services, family counselling and training, diagnosis and treatment, nursing services, nutrition services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and psychiatric services. Additional supportive services, such as the supply of assistive devices, will be made available.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on July 1, 2023, at AIIMS, New Delhi, in the presence of AIIMS representatives Prof M Srinivas, Director, Prof Minu Bajpai, Dean, Academics, Mr. N K Sharma, Senior Financial Advisor, Dr. Anoop Kr Daga, Hospital Administration, Prof. Sheffali Gulati, Faculty in Charge, Child Neurology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Prof Pankaj Hari, Department of Paediatrics, and THF representatives
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