Tech Mahindra Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Tech Mahindra Ltd., has launched “The Ability Network” (TAN), a pioneering initiative aimed at providing verified information and essential guidance to people with disabilities and their caregivers. The platform aims to connect individuals with disabilities with solution providers, product innovators, and grassroots organizations, enabling them to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
The initiative is in response to the significant disability population in India, with an estimated 70-80 million people living with various disabilities. The Ability Network will initially focus on individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities in Telangana and Bengaluru. The platform will be accessible through a web-based application and mobile app, allowing users to communicate their needs in their preferred language.
The Ability Network is a collaborative effort between Tech Mahindra Foundation and its partners, including Enable India, Ujwal Impact Advisors, Nayi Disha, and Ekstep Foundation. The initiative is supported by Tech Mahindra Ltd.’s Maker’s Lab, which will provide technical support.
The launch of The Ability Network was marked by a statement from Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who emphasized the importance of the initiative in bringing about change at the grassroots and policy levels. Chetan Kapoor, CEO of Tech Mahindra Foundation, highlighted the significance of The Ability Network in providing verified information and guidance to individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, enabling them to lead independent lives.
The Ability Network aims to provide access to curated information, high-quality, affordable services, and a range of solution providers. The network will act as a collaborator for different stakeholders, including healthcare, education, vocational training, therapy, and counseling, and will work with non-profits, for-profits, and the government to ensure systemic changes for people with disabilities.
The initiative is expected to launch in June 2025, with a small unit at Tech Mahindra Foundation working closely with partner organizations to create the framework and prepare for the first phase of launch.