Tata Power Trust signs MoU with NIEPID to launch India Neurodiversity Platform under Pay Autention initiative

Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT), the CSR arm of Tata Power, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), under the aegis of MSJE. The collaboration marks the launch and pilot-testing and of an innovative digital Neurodiversity Platform, unveiled at the National Purple Fest held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, Delhi, on February 26, 2024. Developed under the Pay Autention initiative and implemented by Tata Elxsi, this platform, co-curated by NIEPID and TPCDT, serves as an integrated hub for neurodiversity support in India.

Recognizing the prevalence of Autism Spectrum affecting one in 100 children, the Pay Autention initiative addresses the critical need for a comprehensive support ecosystem. As per 2021 Rehabilitation Council of India report there are only 1.2 lakh special educators in India; largely concentrated in 8 states, resulting in a ratio of 1:167 special educators to children, leading to a large gap in support ecosystem. Pay Autention brings together diverse stakeholders, bridging awareness and access gaps in families, institutions, regions, resources, technology, and expert networks. The digital platform, a key component of the Pay Autention initiative, aims to interconnect and amplify the reach of special centers, professionals, and institutions for parents, caregivers, public workers, volunteers, and individuals. It envisions transformation of early diagnosis and care through deeper engagement with community initiatives and working jointly with the government, promote new practices and global interface in the space. The platform to be launched by March 24, will complete pilot testing with 5000 users by August 24. Post which the platform will be open for public use.

“As a part of GOI’s thrust on public-private-partnerships, we are delighted to collaborate with the Tata Power Trust to introduce the pioneering India Neurodiversity Platform. This phygital initiative aims to facilitate early diagnosis, home care and helpline for the neurodiverse; leveraging digital technology and enabling outreach and accessibility across geographies. With Tata Group’s values in volunteering and philanthropy, I’m optimistic that this endeavor will grow into a broader synergy for inclusivity – both in society and industry,” said Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

Since its 2022 launch by N Chandrasekharan, Tata Group Chairman and Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power, the ‘Pay Autention’ initiative has trained over 2000 public workers, 300 caregivers, and practitioners. Additionally, 10,000 citizens and volunteers have been reached through street plays, videos, and workshops. The web portal and toll-free helpline (18002099488) provide nationwide access to high-quality home care learning material and live support. Currently, Pay Autention connects over 250 NGOs, corporates, and government bodies in neurodiversity, offering services to numerous children.

At Amrit Udhyan, The National Purple Fest, TPCDT engaged with 10,000 participants raising awareness on neurodiversity. The fest featured diverse activities empowering individuals with disabilities. Tata Power’s Pay Autention stall held activities like sensory walls, music therapy, Lego play, and doodling art corners. The event also highlighted Tata Power’s Adhikaar initiative, focused on disseminating information about disability schemes.

During the fest, Tata Power, with Pay Autention partners Sunday Bricks, and Victory Arts Foundation, organised sessions including dance, movement therapy, flash mobs, and street plays. Workshops on planting and ceramic-making, in collaboration with NASEOH, INDIA, drew large participation. The event also saw attendance from students and ANM partners from Pay Autention supported grassroot regions like Ahmednagar, Tirunalveli and Jamshedpur along with representatives from Tata Group companies including Air India, Croma, Titan, IHCL promoting empowerment, inclusivity, and diversity.