24 May 2024: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), in its unwavering commitment to society, hosted its first ‘Samarth Assistive Devices Conclave’ today. Designed under Hyundai Motor India’s ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ social initiative, the event showcased the company’s commitment to harnessing technology for empowerment. In collaboration with its NGO partner- ‘Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled’, Hyundai Motor India distributed 72 technologically advanced assistive devices marking a profound milestone in its journey towards a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.
Under its ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ initiative, HMIF has pledged to distribute a total of 684 assistive devices over the next three years, encompassing a wide range of innovative devices from hearing aids, wheelchairs, and digital kits for the visually impaired to bionic limbs and other devices. These technologically advanced assistive devices aim to enhance mobility, vision, hearing, and communication capabilities for the recipients, significantly reducing their dependency on others for care.
The day-long conclave served as a platform for crucial dialogues around topics such as enabling inclusion through assistive devices, challenges surrounding disability in India, and investment in assistive technologies for para sports. Distinguished panellists, including Mr. Vineet Saraiwala, Founder & CEO of Atypical Advantage, Mr. Arman Ali, Executive Director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Mr. Aditya Mehta, Founder of the Aditya Mehta Foundation, Inshah Bashir, Wheelchair Basketball player and many more, shared their diverse perspectives, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, and accessibility of assistive devices to foster a truly inclusive society.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Tarun Garg, COO, of Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “Hyundai Motor India is proud to spearhead ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ initiative, which reflects our commitment to leveraging technology for the empowerment of individuals with disabilities. At Hyundai Motor India, we don’t just make cars but also believe in empowering society, and to empower society, we undertake social initiatives under the pillars of- Earth, Mobility, and Hope. These are aligned with Hyundai’s global vision of ‘Continue’ and propagate Hyundai Motor Company’s global vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’. ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ is a manifestation of this belief. Through ‘Samarth by Hyundai’, we aim to create a more inclusive society and ease the way of living for people with disabilities in India. Providing assistive devices is a step towards strengthening our commitment to the nation’s comprehensive development. Through innovative solutions, we are determined to unlock the potential of individuals with disabilities and pave the way for a more empathetic and inclusive Society.”
Commenting on the initiative, Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Founder and Managing Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, said, “Progress for humanity means empowering every individual to reach their full potential. Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor India under the ‘Samarth’ initiative is a significant step towards creating an inclusive society where technology and compassion converge to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. We are committed to fostering a world where everyone can contribute meaningfully, and this partnership brings us closer to that vision.”