Union Minister of State Shri B.L. Verma Reviews Early Intervention, Academic and Rehabilitation Services at AYJNISHD(D), Mumbai

**Executive Summary** This document reports on the visit of Union Minister of State Shri B.L. Verma to the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (AYJNISHD(D)) in Mumbai on February 17, 2026. The visit aimed to review early intervention, academic, and rehabilitation services provided by the institute. Key topics discussed included the Institute's evolution, academic programs, clinical services, outreach initiatives, and future plans. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Institute Overview:** * Dr. Suman Kumar, Director of AYJNISHD(D), welcomed Minister Verma and provided an overview of the institute's evolution, academic programs, clinical services, and outreach initiatives. * **Services and Activities:** * Heads of Departments and faculty members briefed the Minister on ongoing activities, specialized services, and future plans. * Discussions focused on empowering persons with speech, language, and hearing disabilities and extending community-based rehabilitation services. * The Minister toured key facilities, including the Cross Disability Early Intervention Centre, where he reviewed therapeutic and rehabilitative services. * Dr. Suni Mathew explained the multidisciplinary therapies and interventions offered to children aged 0-6 years with diverse disabilities. * **Research and Education:** * Minister Verma visited the Institute's library and reviewed ongoing research initiatives. * He interacted with resident students and assessed the facilities, highlighting the Institute's commitment to promoting higher education and self-reliance among persons with disabilities. * **Future Goals:** * Minister Verma encouraged AYJNISHD(D) to further strengthen its outreach, research, and capacity-building programs. **Impact Analysis** **AYJNISHD(D) Staff and Administration** * **Impact:** Their work and dedication were acknowledged and appreciated by the Union Minister of State. The visit helps to review progress and provide guidance for future improvements and expansion of services. * **Action Required:** Strengthen outreach, research, and capacity-building programs. Continue delivering comprehensive academic, clinical, and community-based services. **Students with Disabilities (Divyangjan)** * **Impact:** Their higher education and self-reliance are being promoted by the institute. The assessment of facilities ensures they have adequate resources. * **Action Required:** Continue to engage with the institute's programs and services to maximize their educational and self-reliance opportunities. **Children with Diverse Disabilities (Aged 0-6)** * **Impact:** They will benefit from early identification, timely intervention, and holistic rehabilitation services offered at the Cross Disability Early Intervention Centre. * **Action Required:** Families should seek early intervention and utilize the multidisciplinary therapies offered at the CDEIC to ensure optimal developmental outcomes.

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