In a significant step towards enhancing accessibility and independence for visually impaired individuals, ‘Saarthi Smart Canes’ were distributed today in Mawkyrwat.
The initiative was funded by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort in collaboration with the Blind People’s Association (BPA) and Torchit Company.
The programme was organised by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer at Nativity Auditorium where 54 visually impaired individuals from different parts of the district were given the device.
The smart cane is a device powered by sonar technology designed to offer crucial assistance to those with visual impairments, ensuring safer navigation in their daily lives.
A demonstration on how to use the device was given to Community Based Rehabilitation Workers (CBRW) and Multipurpose Rehabilitation Workers (MRW).
Project Director and State Coordinator, State Resource Centre on Disability Affairs, Shillong Civil Hospital Dr. N. P Laloo attended the programme as the chief guest.
Speaking at the programme Dr Laloo commended the IRCTC, BPA and Torchit Company and stated that even with the disability, there is a way for the visually impaired to live a fulfilling life and be an active part of society. He expressed hope that the smart canes will greatly benefit the visually impaired in their daily lives. “Let us continue to work together with the spirit of unity and compassion, to build a society where everyone is empowered, included and celebrated,” he added.
Founder of Torchit Company and CEO, Hunny Bhagchandani emphasised on the functionality of the device. He stated that it is the world’s most accurate, affordable, durable, and effective, with a battery life of 100 hours and is rechargeable.
He mentioned that the smart cane would be particularly useful for people in hilly areas, as it helps navigate around obstacles and the device is also portable and easy to carry. Additionally, he informed about the Jyoti-AI Smart Eye Glasses, a new device designed to further improve the daily lives of visually impaired individuals.
Others who also spoke were Dylan R. J. Syiem, State Nodal Officer, Unique Disability ID, Project, State Resource Centre on Disability Affairs, Meghalaya, E. Tariang, District Social Welfare Officer, Swama Khobung Ch, Supervisor, IRCTC and Richard. J. Wahlang, I/C UDID, Mawkyrwat among others.
