As a part of the National Children’s Science Congress project based on Infrastructural Modifications for the Disabled, a group of five students along with two teachers went on a visit to the Government Rehabilitation Institute for the Intellectually Disabled, ‘Aashadeep’. The visit was aimed at gaining an insight into the kind of facilities provided for people with special disabilities.

Upon reaching there, one of their designated officials briefed us about the working of the institute. We were told that the institute has three departments – Clinical, Academics and Vocational Training. After this we were taken around the Institute and shown the displays of pottery, book-bindings, masala grinding and carpentary (Assistance) as a part of their vocational training. We also saw their speech therapy centre, Dance and Music centre and a special Gymnasium and a Yoga centre with special equipment to suit the needs of the inmates. They have an Early Intervention Centre for children below 6 years, where the problems are diagnosed and suitable treatment given at an early stage. For a smooth and unobstructed movement they have ramps and lifts.

The visit was an eye opener for our students who learnt about the needs and requirements of the specially abled children and the treatments involved. At the end our children felt blessed to have to be so fortunate as to live lives in a world full of opportunities and leading happy and fulfilling lives.