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.

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Patna (PTI): Bihar Home Minister Samrat Choudhary on Sunday announced that the state government will establish 100 fast-track courts (FTCs) to ensure the swift disposal of pending cases.

He said that the move also aims to ease the burden on regular courts for them to accord due attention to sensitive cases.

Choudhary said the decision in this regard has been made considering that over 18 lakh cases are pending before different courts in the state.

The constitution of FTCs will "bring in a big relief" to the judicial system and litigants, he said.

"To operationalise 100 FTCs across 38 districts and sub-divisions, the government will undertake large-scale recruitment," the home minister asserted in a statement.

He said that a total of 900 posts, including those of bench clerks, office clerks, stenographers, deposition writers, data entry operators, drivers, process servers and peons, will be filled.

Choudhary also announced that 79 courts will be designated as 'act courts' to fast-track cases related to the Arms Act. Swift resolution of such serious cases, he said, will strengthen law and order in the state.

The minister said that Patna alone will get eight fast-track courts, while four courts each will be set up in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga and Bhagalpur. Three FTCs each are planned for Nalanda (Bihar Sharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chhapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur and Madhubani.

Similarly, two courts each will be established in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabhua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Arrah), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai and Khagaria. One FTC each is also proposed for the sub-divisional courts of Naugachia and Bagaha.