‘AI for empowering PwDs’ conference to showcase inclusive tech innovations in Bengaluru
Bengaluru: The city is set to host a landmark conference titled ‘AI for Empowering PwDs’ on May 30, 2025, aimed at highlighting the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in creating inclusive, accessible, and assistive solutions for persons with disabilities (PwDs).
The event is being organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO).
Bringing together a global consortium of academicians, technologists, innovators, policymakers, startups, and key stakeholders, the conference will explore cutting-edge AI applications that improve the lives of PwDs. It is expected to serve as a pivotal platform for deliberation, demonstration, and discussion on inclusive technology.
The day-long event will commence with a special address by Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of DEPwD, along with noted academicians Prof. P.V.M. Rao of IIT Delhi and Prof. Venu Govindaraju from the University at Buffalo, USA.
Among the key launches scheduled during the conference are:
-
Mission AI Accessibility
-
Mission AI: Implementation of AI in Assistive Technology and Tools for Empowering PwDs
-
National Disability Support AI Chat Bot
-
Unified Benefits Interface (UBI)
The conference will feature a range of sessions designed to spotlight innovative approaches in assistive technology. Panel discussions under themes such as ‘Innovations for an Inclusive India’ will include representatives from IIT, AIIMS, OpenAI, Anuvadini, CSIO, Sarvam AI, and Karya Inc. Another major panel titled ‘Assistive Technology Leveraging AI’ will include participants from Microsoft, Lenovo, Bhashini, StackGen, and the EquiBeing Foundation.
Experience-sharing sessions will bring forward real-life stories of transformation from entrepreneurs and changemakers like Ekansh Aggarwal of Svar Smart Solutions, Gopikrishnan S. of Sunva.AI, and Arman Ali from the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP).
Technology demonstrations will form a major highlight, showcasing innovations by startups under the India AI Challenge (MeitY) as well as global tech players. Featured exhibitors include Dot Inc (South Korea), Torchit, Sunbots Innovations, Sohum Innovation Labs, Indic AI, Barrier Break, and Khyaal, presenting solutions for developmental, visual, hearing, and multiple disabilities.
Adding a cultural touch to the event, Miracles on Wheels will deliver a special performance celebrating resilience and talent among persons with disabilities.
The conference will conclude with an interactive Q&A session and a ‘Way Forward’ address by Rajesh Aggarwal, outlining a strategic roadmap for inclusive AI development. The event is expected to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and ignite new ideas for building future-ready, inclusive technology solutions.
‘#AI for #EmpoweringPwDs’ Conference to bring out transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in creating Inclusive, Accessible and Assistive solutions for Persons with Disabilities.#EmpoweringDivyangjan@Drvirendrakum13
— PIB | Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (@pib_MoSJE) May 29, 2025
📝https://t.co/lRLl03H4Hn pic.twitter.com/5AFvDZgB8f
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
3 Indians arrested in Canada for shooting outside home
Ottawa (PTI): Three Indian nationals have been arrested by Canadian police on an anti-extortion patrol and charged after bullets were fired at a home.
Harjot Singh (21), Taranveer Singh (19) and Dayajeet Singh Billing (21) face one count each of discharging a firearm, and all have been remanded in custody until Thursday, the Surrey Police Service (SPS) said in a statement on Monday.
The suspects were arrested by patrol officers after an early morning report of shots fired and a small fire outside a home in Surrey's Crescent Beach neighbourhood, the LakelandToday reported.
On February 1, 2026, the SPS members were patrolling in Surrey’s Crescent Beach neighbourhood when reports came in of shots being fired and a small fire outside a residence near Crescent Road and 132 Street.
The three accused were arrested by SPS officers a short time later, the statement said.
SPS’s Major Crime Section took over the investigation, and the three men have now been charged with Criminal Code offences, it said.
All three have been charged with one count each of discharging a firearm into a place contrary to section 244.2(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. All three have been remanded in custody until February 5, 2026.
The SPS has confirmed they are all foreign nationals and has engaged the Canada Border Services Agency, it said.
One of the suspects suffered injuries, including two black eyes, the media report said.
Surrey police Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton said on Monday that the suspect had refused to comply with instructions to get out of the ride-share vehicle and started to "actively resist."
"As we were trained, he was taken to the ground and safely handcuffed," said Houghton.
A second suspect with a black eye was also injured in the arrest after refusing to comply, Houghton said.
The arresting officers were part of Project Assurance, an initiative that patrols neighbourhoods that have been targeted by extortion violence.
Houghton said the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is also involved because the men are foreign nationals, and the trio may face additional charges.
It's not clear if the men are in the country on tourist visas, a study permit, or a work permit, but Houghton said CBSA has started its own investigation into the men's status.
Surrey has seen a number of shootings at homes and businesses over the last several months, but there's been an escalation since the new year.
