The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently convened the National Conference on Sustainable Provision of Assistive Technology (NConSPAT 24), aiming to further India's commitment to ensuring equitable access to assistive technology (AT) for individuals with functional impairments. The upcoming conference will significantly contribute to India's "Vikasit Bharat 2047" vision, highlighting inclusivity as a crucial component of the country's advancement.

NConSPAT 24 convened a diverse group of government officials, non-profit representatives, academics, and industry leaders to tackle critical issues surrounding affordability, quality, and sustainable access to assistive technology. The event underscored the crucial significance of customizing assistive devices, shifting away from a universal approach. In a significant gathering, ten expert panels convened to deliberate on critical strategies aimed at enhancing rehabilitation services, increasing accessibility to assistive technology, ensuring the safety of products, and promoting international collaboration.

Dr. Ashoo Grover, Senior Deputy Director General at ICMR, emphasized the significance of tailored products, stating, "The diverse panelists at NConSPAT 24, representing sectors from academia to private industry, have highlighted a crucial insight: customization is key." In pursuit of advancing assistive products, it is crucial to customize them to address the unique needs of users, guaranteeing both usability and effectiveness. Furthermore, strong standards and mechanisms are crucial for guaranteeing safety and usability, which will foster innovation and enhance quality within the sector.

Dr. Gowri Nambiar Sengupta, Deputy Director General of Public Health at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the critical need to incorporate rehabilitation services into the healthcare system. She stated, “Our focus must be on the holistic integration of rehabilitation services within the healthcare framework.” This signifies a shift from conventional frameworks toward the adoption of groundbreaking and inclusive strategies. Our commitment ensures the inclusion of every individual in the vision for a developed and inclusive India by 2047.

Dr. Ravinder Singh, Senior Scientist at ICMR, emphasised the crucial impact of rehabilitation, asserting, “Integrating rehabilitation into our health systems is not merely about offering support; it represents a fundamental shift in our perspective and treatment of individuals facing diverse health conditions and functional impairments.” Enhancing these systems guarantees that all individuals, irrespective of their impairments, have the opportunity to obtain the necessary care and support to live empowered and independent lives.

NConSPAT 24 has established a foundation for enhancing AT accessibility, paving the way for a more inclusive future in India, where every individual has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from societal advancement.