TOGETHER WE THRIVE: Empowering Lives and Fostering Inclusion

Annual Report 2023 - 24

500,000 people in India are deafblind

95% of what we learn is through our sight and hearing. But with absence or impairment of vision as well as hearing, children with deafblindness are unable to communicate even the most basic of needs – such as hunger, thirst or pain. They live in isolation and neglect – being denied the right to medical care, education, social interactions and work that are taken for granted by most of us.

We are on a mission to change that!

27 years ago,

armed with a vision of a world in which all children and adults with deafblindness can be full and active members of society, Sense International India, also known as Sense India started its journey with 23 children in 1997.

Today, Sense India is the only national organisation supporting and advocating for children and adults with deafblindness for their better care through early intervention, individualised education and livelihood opportunities. Our work is transforming the lives of more than 80,000 persons with deafblindness from isolation and neglect to interaction, self-esteem and becoming contributing members of the society.

Individuals with deafblindness are at the centre of all we do.

Health

Early Intervention, Mental Health and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

Livelihood

Vocational Training and Income Generation Activity

Education

Special Education and Inclusive Education

Advocacy

Inclusion and Awareness

It gives me immense pleasure to share with you the 27th Annual Report of Sense India. Over the past year, we have witnessed remarkable progress in creating a more inclusive world for individuals with deafblindness. From our humble beginnings supporting just 23 children 27 years ago, we are now a nationwide movement reaching those who need us most, thanks to the unwavering support of our partners, funders and advocates.

This year, we have made substantial strides in early intervention, education, livelihood and advocacy. The establishment of our new centre, SPARSH, in Bengaluru marks a pivotal moment in our journey. Together, we are unlocking potential and transforming lives.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we thrive.

- Akhil S Paul, Executive Director

Our Nation-wide Impact

24

States

63

Partners

80000

Children and adults reached

17737

Children and adults are receiving direct services

63500

Children with deafblindness have been enabled access to education through Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan programme

2023-24 Impact Journey:
A Year in Highlights  

The highlights showcase the breadth and depth of Sense India's impact over the past year. TOGETHER WITH OUR PARTNERS, FUNDERS, GOVERNMENT AND CHAMPIONS WE HAVE…

Conducted screening and assessment to identify children with deafblindness

Timely intervention is crucial. At our baby screening centres, specialists conduct thorough screenings for new-born babies and children aged 0 to 6. We then develop tailored early intervention strategies that address the unique requirements and severity of sensory impairments for each child.

I am very happy with my child's progress. Along with education and therapy, she receives medicine and nutrition, which have helped her development. I never imagined seeing her walk on her own—she used to only sit and move using her hips.

- Sushila Rathod,
Mother of Laxmi

11

Baby screening units supported by us

5215

Babies screened 

333

Children were identified and enrolled in our Early Intervention programme

Provided customised education

Children with deafblindness aged 6 to 14 learn through our individualized education plans based on detailed assessments. Our team of special educators and therapists for speech, mobility, and physiotherapy work with children at their homes and our centres. This focused, individualized care is instrumental in helping children with deafblindness reach their full potential.

From the time we came to Sense India’s partner organisation Caritas, I have been stress-free and seen so much improvement in Paras. Even the doctors are happy with his progress.

- Ranjitha, Mother of Paras

837

Children were identified and enrolled in our programme

1570

Children are receiving services at their homes and centres 

344

Children with deafblindness are now going to mainstream schools under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan 

Helped develop skills

Learning a vocational skill empowers deafblind individuals with economic independence and self-assurance. We work closely with parents and family members to customise the training process, pinpoint appropriate skills, and assess job opportunities that match the individual's abilities and interests.

Sense India, in partnership with multiple organizations, promotes internship opportunities for deafblind adults. This initiative has evolved into a fellowship, culminating in an annual event where deafblind individuals come together to exchange experiences, insights, and knowledge.

951

Young adults are being trained in diverse vocational skills

26

Vocational Units across India

Build livelihood

Vocational training by itself is not enough; therefore, we focus on identifying and facilitating income-generating activities for individuals with deafblindness. This includes helping them start their own micro-enterprises in collaboration with their families or helping them secure employment.

Initiated a new project with the mission to empower 80 young adults with deafblindness and multiple disabilities in Delhi and Kerala (Alleppey) by enhancing their employability and vocational skills over a span of two years. 

218

Young adults are now contributing members of their families

38

Young adults received support to start their own micro enterprise this year

Strengthened professionals, parents and partners through trainings

Children and adults with deafblindness need expert trainers and educators. Our goal is to empower parents, teachers and educators with the necessary skills, expertise and knowledge to effectively support those with deafblindness. We also provide trainings and workshops for parents to ensure their children receive appropriate care from an early stage.

Deafblindness should never be a barrier. Sense India has initiated a pilot project, 'Sports for Persons with Deafblindness & Multiple Disabilities,' in Ahmedabad with our partner organisation Blind People’s Association (BPA). In the first year, we're training 10 master trainers to work with 20 budding sports persons with deafblindness.

7749

Government teachers, professional, parents and experts trained through various National and International trainings

294

Professionals and parents trained through our Web Education on Deafblindness and Sign Language

1072

Caregivers and professionals trained through hands-on, personalised onsite visits 

Talked about Mental Health

The children and adults under our care face one of the most challenging disabilities. With the backing of Grand Challenges Canada, Sense India had initiated a unique program to assess, identify, and support individuals aged 10 to 24 with deafblindness, focusing on mental health. We provide training for deafblind adults, parents, and educators to improve communication, conflict resolution, emotional expression, and counselling awareness. This initiative has fostered a constructive change, as parents and educators now feel more at ease discussing mental health issues and engaging actively in the process.

A training with lots of activities that helps us learn more about ourselves and also how to understand someone else's Mental health. 

- Adult with Deafblindness

It's beneficial for adults with deafblindness and the parents we work with, and it also helps us understand them very detailedly. 

- Mallika, Special Educator

984

Children and young adults with deafblindness screened, assessed and receiving intervention for mental health issues

31

Children and young adults with deafblindness were receiving counselling 

570

Adults with deafblindness, special educators, parents/caregivers and CBR workers trained in identifying and addressing mental health issues 

Build a community of support

We have created three national networks: Udaan for adults with deafblindness, Prayaas for parents and Abhi-Prerna for special educators. These networks promote peer support and the exchange of experiences, allowing us to extend our reach to more children in need. Currently, Sense India provides support to 22 local parent groups throughout India.

Alice William, an Udaan member won Miss International 2023 in Special Model Category. 

3566

Members are connected through our national networks for deafblind adults, teachers and parents

1050

Network members from 23 States participated in 1 National, 5 Regional and 14 State Network Meetings

Alice William’s journey is one of resilience, love, and unyielding determination.

Born with deafblindness due to congenital rubella syndrome, Alice faced overwhelming challenges from the start. When she joined Sense India’s partner organization in 2015, her sight was rapidly fading, and communication seemed impossible. But with training in Sign Language and Braille, Alice began to reclaim her world.

Her true gift, however, was creativity. Encouraged by her ever-supportive parents and educators, Alice found joy in cooking and jewellery making. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit and her family lost their jobs, Alice stepped up. With help from Sense India, she started her own catering business, turning her passion into a lifeline for her family.

Yet, Alice didn’t stop there. Pursuing her love for modelling, she graced magazine covers and eventually became Ms. International India in the Special Model Category. Alice’s journey is a testament of her strength, her family’s belief in her, and the power of support. She continues to inspire everyone around her with her courage and creativity.

Advocated for inclusion

We reached out to various government bodies to raise awareness about deafblindness and to address important issues, including the need for proper certification, equitable disability pensions, inclusion in the National Census, access to election and UDID cards, voting rights, and the provision of inclusive education for children with deafblindness. For the first-time home-voting was facilitated for deafblind adults in Chhattisgarh by State Election Commission.

At the International Purple Festival in Goa, Sense India raised awareness and sensitized key officials from DEPwD, Skill Development and the Goa state. Our Deafblind Ambassador, Ms. Shrutilata Singh, participated in panel discussions alongside Udaan network members, addressing the challenges encountered by Persons with Disabilities in areas such as education, health, gender, technology and mobility.

55

Government officials sensitised in 14 States across India

2574

Individuals with deafblindness are availing government benefits like disability pension, Niramaya Health Insurance, assistive devices, bus pass, railway pass among others

96

Deafblind adults exercised their right to vote in 3 states

Broached a taboo subject - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

Sense India has integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education into all training programs for adults with deafblindness. Thanks to the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), we have now initiated a pilot program addressing SRH for adolescents with deafblindness and multiple disabilities. Our focus is on breaking barriers and providing sex education, training, and information to adults with deafblindness, teachers, and caregivers to promote responsible and healthy behaviour. We aim to help them understand their sexuality and advocate for their rights.

It helped clear a few biases and set the narrative for healthy perception of one’s gender identity.

- Priya Ann Aranjo, Mentor on training

480

Girls/adults with deafblindness, special educators, parents/caregivers and CBR workers received training on SRH

3

Sexual and reproductive health accessible training manuals/modules made

Created new experiences – Deafblind Experience Zone

Deafblind Experience Zone is a first-hand experience aimed at raising awareness and sensitising people towards one of the most distinct and underrepresented disability, deafblindness. This specially designed activity gave our participants a glimpse into the unique needs of people with deafblindness, and the abilities of the senses.

It was wonderful. For once at least I could step into my children’s shoes.

- Shampa Roy

It was a much needed experience to understand the daily challenges of those with Deafblindness and how they navigate their space.

- Mansi Aggarwal

1300

people visited and gained insight into the needs and abilities of persons with disabilities

Engaged with volunteers

Volunteers from different corporates have transformed the learning experience for children with deafblindness by making it engaging, enjoyable, and accessible by crafting tactile learning materials, pre-braille books, sensory boxes and mobility aids.

Today at Cisco Bangalore, we had an event with Sense India, the activity was creating sensory kits for the children with deafblindness. This is one of a kind event that we CISCO team has conducted. The best part was that everyone was involved. We got to understand to an extent what will be helpful for people with deafblindness, mostly the challenges they are facing in their day to day life and how we can help them by creating these kits.

- CISCO Volunteers

6208

Volunteers engaged

15

Corporates

1592

materials created

Rallied for a cause – Messengers On Cycles


We proudly held the 10th edition of Messengers on Cycles in association with Finolex Pipes & Fittings and Mukul Madhav Foundation. The event, flagged off by Gujarat’s honourable Chief Minister, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, saw over 800 champions, including individuals with disabilities, participating in a 15km cycle ride and 5km walk through the vibrant streets of Ahmedabad, raising awareness and celebrating the resilience of individuals with deafblindness.

Began a new chapter in Sense India's Journey of Deafblindness

On December 8, 2023, Sri Das Suryavamshi, the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in Karnataka, officially opened our ­first direct service in Bengaluru. The SPARSH Centre is equipped to provide specialised services to children and adults with deafblindness like screening and assessment, early intervention, special education, home-based intervention, parents/caregiver counselling, vision therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, orientation and mobility among others.

Before coming to the SPARSH Centre, Syed didn’t receive the support he needed. Now, he is learning braille and abacus, and his progress in physiotherapy has been incredible. We are so happy with the services here.

- Ashraf Unisia,
Syed’s mother

21

Children and adults are receiving services in our Sparsh Centre

We warmly invite you to visit our center and experience firsthand the journey of our children and adults with deafblindness. 

Launched our Coffee Table Book and Short Film

On the 8th of March, we unveiled Sense India's coffee table book 'Senses Lost and Found', featuring stories of trials and triumphs of individuals with deafblindness. We also premiered our short film 'We Too Exist', which highlights Sense India's impactful journey, at 'An evening with Sense India' in Mumbai. The book and ­film was launched by Ms Amruta Fadnavis, a prominent social activist, banker, actress, and singer along with Mr Sunil Sheth, a prominent lawyer and philanthropist; Mr Amith Dholakia, Chair of Sense India; and Mr Akhil Paul, Executive Director of Sense India.

Financials

Money In

Money Out

Our Amazing Supporters

A big thank you to all our supporters who donate funds for our programmes, volunteer at events, contribute to our staff salaries and operating costs to help us do what we do. We wouldn’t exist without you.

Individuals

Hashim Kathawala

Roopak Vasant Vaidya

Vedantika Puri

Yeshwanth Mabukal Kini

Reeta S Puri

Bhavna A Shah

Tushar Arvind Mavani

Perviz Bommy Lashkari

Vijay Gohil

Sudhir S Shanbhag

Joji Thomas

Shyam Anil Divan

Aditya Nayak Bantwal

N K Agrwal

Umakant Patel

Kalyan Kumar Banerjee

Vikas khemani

Prayaag Kasundra

Jayanti Prasad Khaitan

Sivakumaran Meenakshisunderam

Sarosh Nariman Contractor

Sandeepa Moparthi

B C Balasubramanian

Pradyuman Trivedi

Abhishek Saxena

Prasad Parthasarthy

Muthu Sankar

Kundavi

Venkatesh Prasad

B. V. S. R Murty

Ketan Patel

Mihir Safi

Samir Jitendra Kumar Khatri

Brahmadesam Canthadai Balasubramanian

Mojindar Narayanarao Keshavarao

Mohan N S

Miriam J E Contractor

Narayana Prasad Athreya

Pooran Krishna Bansal

Kalpesh Babubhai Dalal

Venkatesh Narayanan Chakravarty

Indira Krupavathi Culshaw

K Sankar Muthu

Krishan Kumar Maheshwari

Sandhya Abhay Londhe

Vincent Bhatt

Usha Subramanyam G

V Krishnasami Bharathi

Preetham Solomon

Ananda Ramesh

Juzer M Vasi

Chanda J Jog

Bella Rajendra Joshi

Jalpa Sameer Parikh

Aleem Adatia

Sushil Golcha

Jhansi Rani

Amar Mahta

Yogesh Patel

Corporates, Trusts and Foundations

Adobe Sytems India Pvt. Ltd.

Alchemy Capital Management Pvt. Ltd.

Azim Premji Foundation

Bahar Infocons Pvt. Ltd.

Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. Ltd.

C H Robinson Worldwide Freight India Pvt. Ltd.

C U Shah Charitable Trust

CAF America

Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI)

Cisco India

DMCC Speciality Chemicals Limited 

Edelgive Foundation

Gail (India) Limited

Give Foundation Inc.

Grand Challenges Canada

Hawpar Pvt. Ltd.

Intel Technology India Pvt. Ltd.

J K Dholakia Charitable Trust

Kamal India Foundation

Kamal Udwadia Foundation

Microsoft Research Lab India Pvt. Ltd.

Mukul Madhav Foundation

Nelumbo Foundation

Oracle

Sense International, UK

Shell India

U. K. Paints India Pvt. Ltd.

VMware Software India Pvt. Ltd.

Estate Of Ram Gopaldas Keswani

K Pravinchandra and Associates

Hemkunt Agro Care Pvt. Ltd.

Standard Industries Ltd.

Kryolan Cosmetics India Pvt. Ltd.

Intercon Investment & Finance Pvt. Ltd.

Seiko Investments Pvt. Ltd.

Malviya Charitable Trust

Shree Naman Developers Pvt. Ltd.

Yatayat Corporation Of India

Purab Textile

G D Saraf Charitable Trust

Bai Freny Darab Pader Charitable Trust

Parbhudas Kishordas Tobacco Products Pvt. Ltd.

Smt Menaben Kanjibhai Patel Memorial Trust

Finolex Pipes & Fittings

Shapoorji Pallonji & Co Pvt. Ltd.

The Tinplate Company India Ltd.

Impressico Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

Ramco Steels Pvt. Ltd.

Quarkxpress Publishing R and D India Pvt. Ltd.

Aira Controls

Dharamtar Motor Service Petroleum Products

Monthly Donors

Abdul Rehman Desai

Ankit Gandhi

Anupam G Gupta

Avinash Dighe

Bhanu Chaudhary

Pushpita Hati

Cyrus Naval Daruwalla

Guru Prasad Mugeraya

Jai Kapoor

Kanchan Khabya

Kiran Wadagavi

Kirubakaran Kalimuthu

Kumar Abhishek

Kunal Rathod

Manishbhai Gupta

Manjunatha M

Mayank Saxena

Mohan Baburao Magdum

Murthy S

Nikita Bisht

Prabhu Sai Uday Kiran Kairam

Rama Naga Anjaneya Kumar Kuncham

Ramesh Rathod

Ripunjoy Gohain

Roshan Daniel

Sachin Goled

Santosh Sethy

Seethalakshmi S

Sumit Shankar Sinha

Tapas Mohanty

Varun Dev Shanker

Vivek Khabya

Vivek Madhwal

Xerxes Rao

Endowment Fund

Paul Suryavanshi Endowment Fund

Sadashiv and Saraswati Prasad Endowment Fund

Ajay Khanna Fund

Sugandh Endowment Fund

Kumud & Vasant Joshi Endowment Fund

The Nozer & Burjish Memorial Endowment Fund

Tulsi Projects Pvt. Ltd.

Your support means the world to us. Thank you for choosing to empower children and adults with deafblindness!

Every donations counts as it helps us provide services to more children with deafblindness.

Donate to Sense International India and avail 50% TAX EXEMPTION
 

If you would like to keep up on the latest updates, come and connect with us on social media! 

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+91 079 26301282

info@senseintindia.org

Bengaluru Office: 435, Kasturi Nagar Main Rd, Gurijiya Gutta, East of NGEF Layout, Bennigana Halli, Bengaluru 560 043
Delhi Office: 2nd Floor, Admin Block, NAB Delhi Campus, R K Puram, Sector 5, New Delhi 110 022