Latest news with #PrateekMadhav
Hans India
24-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Indian Assistive Technology Pioneer Prateek Madhav Champions Global Disability Tech Reform with The Royal Society of London Report Launch
Bengaluru: Co-Founder and CEO of Bangalore-based AssisTech Foundation (ATF), Prateek Madhav, who is establishing the largest AT innovation ecosystem in India has said that he would put up The Royal Society, London's Global Disability Technology Report on How Data and Digital Assistive Technologies can Support Independent, Fulfilled lives, launched on Monday, to the Government, think-tanks and civil society in the country to initiate action to radically better the lives of Persons with Disability (PwDs) and ensure practical and positive outcomes for the community. Madhav expressed his views while speaking at the launch of the Report at The Royal Society London. He holds the distinction of being the sole Indian member on the Royal Society's Steering Committee who came out with the report. The Committee is chaired by renowned Professor of Statistics from Oxford University, Sir Bernard Silverman FRS, and includes the legendary co-founder of the Internet, Dr Vint Cerf, FRS. Articulating his views on the Report and Disability Technology, Madhav said: 'There is a clear need for accurate data collection in India relating to disability. India is a land of 1.4 billion people, including 90 million PwDs, 22 official languages with around 1600 dialects. Every 100 miles, the language changes in India. The country is a vast geography with high cultural diversity and nuances. Hence, collecting data to build solutions and technology to help PwDs is challenging'. He also commented on internet access within the Indian context. 'We are aware that internet access in India and the Global South is expensive, and accessible mostly to the English-speaking. Making the Internet affordable and responsive to diverse cultural idioms and languages will ensure that PwDs would use technologies developed for them to their best.' Madhav noted that India's rapidly growing start-up ecosystem offers a promising pathway for advancing Assistive Technology and driving inclusive innovation. 'When we started building the AT ecosystem in India, we just had 15 start-ups who were trying to bridge the gap of accessibility. Today we have 500+ startups just in India, building Assistive Technology for the world. We are in fact well set to establish reverse innovation and bring technologies from India to the West for PwDs.' He added that digital exclusion is not just a technological issue but a failure of design, policy and imagination. Designing technology for limited people is not the right approach and co-design should be a method. Madhav, who contributed to the conceptualization and direction of the report, emphasized that despite cultural nuances and contextual specificities, certain technologies—such as voice-control—hold universal value for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across the world. He particularly highlighted voice-control as a feature he greatly appreciates for its empowering potential. The Report outlines a forward-looking vision for enhancing the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) through inclusive policy, technology, and design practices. It recommends that national statistics bodies shift from focusing solely on disability identity to collecting data on functional limitations, enabling more nuanced and effective policymaking. It also urges governments to recognize smartphones as legitimate and powerful forms of Digital Assistive Technology (DigAT), given their built-in accessibility features such as voice-to-text, screen magnifiers, and navigation tools. The Report underscores the importance of meaningful involvement of disabled individuals in the entire lifecycle of digital product development—from ideation to deployment—to ensure accessibility is embedded from the outset. Additionally, the Report calls for the promotion of low-cost, interoperable, and sustainable DigAT solutions through collaborative initiatives involving governments, technology companies, and research funders. It stresses the need to preserve high-quality analogue alternatives and human support systems, acknowledging that digital solutions may not suit all users. Finally, the Report emphasizes that the effective use of DigAT requires skill-building; thus, training programs for disabled people and caregivers must be prioritized to ensure they can fully benefit from both mainstream and assistive technologies. Sir Bernard Silverman, FRS, who rendered the concluding remarks at the event, observed in the Forward for the Report that the vision of Stephen Hawking was crucial to the development of disability technologies. 'Some fifty years ago, I was introduced to Stephen Hawking and told that he would be lucky to live another year. In fact, he had a long and influential life ahead of him and became one of the Royal Society's most famous Fellows. Writing in his own foreword for a 2011 World Health Organization report, he described the removal of barriers to participation for disabled people as a 'moral duty'. In his view, achieving this would unlock the vast potential of disabled people and, as exemplified by his own life as a highly accomplished disabled academic, technology can play an important role. This report aims to push forward Hawking's vision by considering how we can accelerate the development of digital technologies to help disabled people live independent, fulfilled lives.' The Royal Society's Global Disability Technology Report marks a pivotal moment in the global discourse on disability inclusion and digital equity. Grounded in data, design thinking, and a deep understanding of lived experiences, the report sets a clear agenda for governments, technology developers, and civil society to act with urgency and empathy. Prateek Madhav's powerful intervention underscores India's unique position—rich in cultural diversity yet poised for leadership in assistive innovation through its burgeoning startup ecosystem.
Hans India
24-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Companies across sectors extend employment opportunities
Bengaluru: AssisTechFoundation (ATF), India's first Assistive Technology ecosystem enabler, organised the Adidvara - Job Habba, a dedicated employment fair for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The event brought together inclusive employers and skilled candidates to bridge the gap between training and employment. The event saw a strong participation, with over 250 persons with disabilities attending as prospective candidates and engaging with potential companies including Infosys BPM, Big Basket, Tech Mahindra, Dr. Reddy's, Dell, Lemon Tree Hotels, and more offered job opportunities across sectors such as hospitality, e-commerce, data entry, customer service etc. The event featured one-on-one speed interviews and live demonstrations of Assistive Technologies that improve workplace accessibility and efficiency. Employers had the option to hire through apprenticeships, internships, or full-time roles. Candidates ranged from Class 10 pass to graduates from both technical and non-technical backgrounds. Notably, the event also welcomed candidates with no formal education, reflecting its inclusive approach towards enabling livelihood opportunities for all. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between ATF and the Department for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens (DWDSC), Government of Karnataka to collaborate on expanding the reach and impact of the programme. The partnership aims to enhance awareness, engage more organisations, and mobilise support from CSR partners to secure sponsorship and funding for scaling up the initiative. WinVinaya Foundation in Bengaluru also joined the initiative as a partner, contributing to its on-ground execution and implementation. The CEO and Co-Founder, ATF, Prateek Madhav said, 'Adidvara is more than just a platform — it's a movement for inclusive excellence. Through Job Habba, we're creating pathways for employers to connect with exceptional talent, supported by tailored pre-employment training and guidance to meet their inclusive hiring goals. Together, we aim to build a workforce where diversity is celebrated and talent is truly valued.' C K Ramamurthy, (MLA, Jayanagar Constituency), and Captain Shanthi S (Senior Program Director, Infosys Foundation) addressed the gathering and encouraged companies to prioritise livelihood opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. Jeya Chandran (Regional Head- UNDP Southern India), Shekar Naik (Padma Shri Awardee and Former Captain of Indian Blind Cricket Team) and BM Pavan Kumar (Founder, Gather Life for Paraplegics) also enriched the event with their presence, reinforcing the collective commitment towards creating inclusive and sustainable opportunities.
Hans India
21-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Bengaluru's Assistive Technology Pioneer Prateek Madhav Invited to The Royal Society London's Launch of Global Report on Disability Technology
Bengaluru: Prateek Madhav, CEO & Co-Founder of AssisTech Foundation (ATF)—India's first ecosystem enabler for Assistive Technology—has been invited to the launch event of The Royal Society London's Global Policy Report titled "Disability Technology: How Data and Digital Assistive Technologies Can Support Independent, Fulfilled Lives." The event will take place on June 23 in London, in the esteemed presence of renowned statistician and data expert Sir Bernard Silverman, FRS. Prateek is notably the only Indian invited to this prestigious event, where he will also join an international panel discussion to deliberate on the report's insights and its policy implications for enhancing the independence and quality of life for persons with disabilities. Prateek Madhav has been a part of the Royal Society's Steering Committee for Digital Accessibility which is a reflection of the deep expertise and impact that ATF brings to the global Assistive Technology ecosystem. The Committee includes industry leaders such as Dr. Vint Cerf, Chief Internet Evangelist at Google, widely recognized as one of the 'Fathers of the Internet.' Prateek's participation in this prestigious international forum highlights ATF's core values — evidence-based innovation, user-centred design, and inclusive development. It is also a powerful recognition of the Foundation's work in championing accessibility and disability inclusion, not just in India but on the world stage. Speaking about The Royal Society Report launch and event, Prateek said: 'The idea is to drive forward a global conversation that puts the lived experiences of persons with disabilities at the heart of technological and policy advancement. This marks a significant step in ATF's evolution as a global thought leader — expanding its footprint beyond national boundaries, influencing cross-sector collaboration, and aligning with global agendas for inclusive innovation. The opportunity to engage with policymakers, tech leaders, academics, and advocates at the Royal Society event reinforces ATF's role as a bridge between grassroots innovation and systemic change.' The report is the outcome of a collaborative study undertaken with external research and advocacy organizations, with the goal of building a robust evidence base centered on the lived experiences of Digital Assistive Technology users. The event will bring together policymakers, advocates, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss how data and digital solutions can contribute to improving accessibility in all areas of life for persons with disabilities. The report launch is to be followed by a panel discussion on the report featuring Prateek who will be speaking on accelerating digital technologies for persons with disabilities. The panel will be chaired by Geoff Spinks, Senior Professor, University of Wollongong, Australia who is a pioneer in accessibility for persons with disabilities. Joining the discussion are global leaders in the field, including Professor Annalu Waller OBE (Professor of Computer Science at the University of Dundee), Christopher Patnoe, (Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion for EMEA at Google), Jess Hider (Senior Technical Designer at Imporium) and Professor Cathy Holloway (co-founder and Academic Director of the Global Disability Innovation Hub, UCL). The event will also feature live exhibits of digital assistive technologies to help people with disabilities live independent lives.
Hans India
30-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Centre launches four AI Missions, including, National UBI and Chatbot AI digital technologies for the disabled
Bengaluru: The Government of India's Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in collaboration with Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) here on Friday at The National Conference on AI for Empowering Persons with Disabilities launched four major digital and technology missions to aid persons with disabilities in receiving government and societal services in the areas of education, healthcare, livelihood, and everyday life. The four missions, Mission AI Accessibility, Implementation of AI in Assistive Technology and Tools for Empowering People with Disabilities, National Disability Support AI Chat Bot, and Unified Benefits Interface (UBI), modelled on the widespread and popular UPI financial technological tool, were launched by Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD in the presence of a government officials, technology experts from IITs and AIIMS, Technology Entrepreneurs and citizens. The Secretary, DEPwD, unveiling the National AI Missions for Persons with Disabilities, Rajesh Aggarwal said, 'India now has one billion digital Aadhaar IDs, the digi-locker which can have all physical documents in digital form in just one device, and the UPI (Unified Payments Interface) which has made financial transactions easy. We are extending this digital footprint for persons with disabilities by digitalising and automating a series of government benefits, schemes and policies, to reach beneficiaries within 24 hours in the areas of education, health, livelihood and finance. Disabled students will receive scholarships in their accounts in 24 hours from now on and people with health problems can interact with a chatbot to clarify and seek medical and health advisory services from home itself and the UBI will ensure digital and technological interaction between disabled people and the government to ensure services are delivered without bureaucratic delays and hindrances. The interaction will be direct, easy and seamless, made possible by AI.' The Member of the Steering Committee of NITI Aayog instituted to design the National Strategic Framework of Assistive Technology (AT) in India with the objective of making India a Global Hub of Assistive Technology, and Co-Founder and CEO of AssisTech Foundation (ATF), which has changed the lives of a million disabled people, Prateek Madhav said, 'We are working with the Government to ensure that persons with disabilities, particularly learners, are equipped with the right Assistive Technologies (AT) - screen readers, Braille displays, sign language plugins, speech recognition tools, and adaptive input devices – to ensure an hindrance-free everyday life as well as seamless and easy interaction and practical working in the fields of education, health, and livelihood to enable persons with disabilities have a hurdle-free reception of benefits. We concur with Aggarwal's UBI initiative modelled on UPI as this will ease implementation of benefits for persons with disabilities. With over 14.96 billion transactions per day and a total transaction value of ₹23.25 trillion, UPI has revolutionized how Indians handle money. But beyond the numbers lies a deeper impact—ease of access for people with physical disabilities. No longer do they have to travel to banks, wait in long queues, or manage cheque books. UPI allows users to send or receive any amount—from 10 paise to ₹10 lakh—right from their homes. For the disabled, this saves not just time and energy, but also the physical and emotional strain of navigating public spaces. When paired with Assistive Technologies like voice commands, screen readers, and simplified interfaces, digital payments become even more inclusive. Digital payment system is more than a mere advancement—it is a powerful equalizer.' Prateek has co-founded the Global Alliance on Assistive Technology Innovations and Investments, known as the Inclusive Innovation Network (+N), along with AT pioneers and partners from Australia, Canada, and Kenya to bring in their innovations into India to aid persons with disabilities. He is establishing the largest AT innovation ecosystem in India and under his leadership, ATF has developed a network of over 450+ AT startups, impacted the lives of 1 million individuals with disabilities. Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, MEITY, and DG, NIC said, 'We are working with state governments to adopt AI models and missions we will be taking all these technologies to tier-2 and tier-3 cities in India to help the underserved and disabled.' A highlight of the conference was the high-impact panel session on 'Assistive Technology Leveraging AI', moderated by Prateek, which featured a distinguished panel of experts. Sandeep Alur, CTO, Microsoft Innovation Hub, said, AI can see, hear, speak, reason, memorize and think. This means that the future is AI adapting to individual requirements, especially for the disabled.' Shekar Naik, Padma Shri Awardee and Former Captain, Indian Blind Cricket Team, who is training hundreds of blind cricketers said, 'AI on the laptop helps us now to place players on the cricket field in minutes. It would take hours or half a day earlier. I can now book my tickets, write on my own or type on my own. AI has ended dependency of the blind permanently.' Amitabh Nag, CEO, Bhashini Project, which is transforming the language translation scenario in India, said, 'We are developing speech to text and text to speech, voice technologies, websites in Indian languages, addressing translation of dialects beyond the 22 official languages to help the disabled.' Chandrika Jain, CMO, Lenovo India said, 'Design of AI technologies should be undertaken with the disabled, not for them. The disabled have to be part of the tech design, not as an afterthought.' Prateek, who steered the insightful and thought-provoking discussion, concluded stating that ATF's hope and vision is to build the world's first Unicorn (start-up) that would reach a billion disabled people by developing technologies that would help the disabled. 'A Unicorn is a billion-dollar start-up, but for us, Unicorn is not about money, it's about a billion people. There is hope because we have moved from 400 start-ups 10 years ago to 1.7 lakh start-ups in 2025.' The panel collectively underscored the importance of collaboration between government, private sector, and social innovation ecosystems to build an AI-powered accessible future. The conference served as a pivotal platform to explore the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Assistive Technology (AT), with the goal of harnessing cutting-edge innovations to enhance accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
The Hindu
24-04-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
T.N. Startup Summit: Panellists stress need for policy framework that fosters inclusivity in startups
Even as Tamil Nadu is heading towards a vibrant and tech-led startup ecosystem, there is a need for a policy framework that fosters inclusivity in startups, noted panelists in one of the sessions hosted at The Hindu Tamil Nadu Startup Summit 2025, in Chennai on Thursday (April 24, 2025). The summit is organised by The Hindu, along with SRM Institute of Science and Technology, and co-presented by StartupTN in association with Sify Technologies. During a session on 'Building a diverse startup ecosystem: inclusion and gender equality', panellists discussed the power of inclusive technology, role of academic institutions in fostering the same, and how inclusion must be unbiased. Speaking about the challenges faced by persons with physical disabilities and the role of innovations through assistive technology in empowering them, Prateek Madhav, co-founder and CEO, AssisTech Foundation, said the country is now growing into one of the best assistive technology hubs in the world. The number has grown from a mere 10 or 15 to a vibrant ecosystem of 500 startups, which have changed lives and enabled persons with physical disabilities to gain better accessibility, independence, and social inclusion. Several of them were from Tamil Nadu, Mr. Madhav said. Highlighting technological innovation as the reason behind societal transformation and the growth of the startup ecosystem, he said it is essential to include assistive technology in the policy framework. Noting that persons with disabilities cannot be left behind in the attempt to build an inclusive ecosystem, he said they contribute 5% to 7% to the country's GDP. Investment, technological innovations, and research in inclusive startups would help in improving the economic impact of including persons with physical disabilities. Subalalitha C.N., professor, Department of Computing Technologies, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, spoke about the role of academia in nurturing startup and entrepreneurial mindset among students and encouraging faculty startups. Besides hackathons and project based courses, students are encouraged to commercialise their ideas through industry collaborations. Moreover, faculty startups help them align with their research domains and gain exposure to market requirements. This is reflected in the quality of their teaching. Jyotirmayee Dash, managing director, TeraLumen Solutions Private Limited, elaborated on her journey of building a startup and the terahertz technology. Underlining the need for diversification in startups, including research-based products and manufacturing, she said consistency and dedication are important to build a company based on deep tech. Collaborations, including those with business experts and various stakeholders, would help balance research and business ventures, she said. The session was moderated by Ramya Kannan, Chief of Bureau, Tamil Nadu, The Hindu.
