‘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:
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Mission AI Accessibility
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Mission AI: Implementation of AI in Assistive Technology and Tools for Empowering PwDs
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National Disability Support AI Chat Bot
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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
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Oppn, X users flag concerns over US envoy Sergio Gor’s visit to Army’s western command
New Delhi: A visit by the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, to Chandigarh on Monday has triggered sharp criticism from opposition leaders and social media users, raising questions about national security and foreign policy.
On X, Ambassador Gor announced his visit, writing, “Just landed in Chandigarh. Looking forward to visiting the Western Command of the Indian Army.”
Just landed in Chandigarh. Looking forward to visiting the Western Command of the Indian Army
— Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) February 16, 2026
Soon after, opposition voices questioned the broader implications of the visit. Congress Kerala, in a post, commented, “Why so much panic? We’ve already seen Pakistan's ISI getting access to Pathankot Airbase with this government's blessings. Didn't they say then ‘Modi ne kiya ho to kuch soch samajh kar kiya hoga?’ Compared to that, this is very small.”
Why so much panic? We’ve already seen Pakistan's ISI getting access to Pathankot Airbase with this government's blessings.
— Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) February 16, 2026
Didn't they say then "Modi ne kiya ho to kuch soch samajh kar kiya hoga?"
Compared to that, this is very small. pic.twitter.com/gNNuAGQBPC
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also weighed in, writing, “Since India’s national strategic interests are now tied to what US wants India to do, this visit seems to sync with that.”
She further added, “India’s history will remember the de-escalation announcement between India and Pak was announced on social media by the US President before Indians got to know from their own government. US Ambassador is doing the job for his nation, who is doing for us? The answer is blowing in the wind.”
Since India’s national strategic interests are now tied to what US wants India to do, this visit seems to sync with that. India’s history will remember the de-escalation announcement between India and Pak was announced on social media by the US President before Indians got to… pic.twitter.com/rYMq5NhJHA
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) February 16, 2026
The visit comes against the backdrop of the growing US-India defence partnership.
Writer and political analyst @rajuparulekar commented on ‘X’, “East India Company is back!”
“Is it allowed for an ambassador to visit any army unit in india?” asked another user.
Several X users expressed concerns over the appropriateness of the visit.
One asked, “Is it allowed for an ambassador to visit any army unit in India?” Another wrote, “Why an ambassador visiting our army places? To talk to Chandigarh lobby for F-35?”
Why an ambassador visiting our army places ? To talk to chandigarh lobby for f-35 ??
— Rohan Sagar (@RohanSagar03) February 16, 2026
“We have completely sold Indian sovereignty. Rothschild the evil Bankers will now control NSE. Modi sold Bharat Mata to Trump . And now American imperialist is visiting our army command . Scary,” wrote another user.
“The Indian Army isn’t part of geopolitics, so why is he interested in visiting there?,” opined another.
The Indian Army isn’t part of geopolitics, so why is he interested in visiting there?
— Aditya Pratap Singh (@Adi_IIMCIAN) February 16, 2026
On Sunday, Gor welcomed Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), highlighting efforts to expand the growing US-India defence partnership.
In a post on X, Gor wrote, “Delighted to have @INDOPACOM Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo in India to expand the U.S.-India defense partnership. Now is the time to strengthen vital cooperation between our two nations.”
On Monday, Admiral Samuel J. Paparo Jr visited the headquarters of India’s Western Army Command along with the American envoy Sergio Gor. The delegation was briefed on the formation’s capabilities, its past operations, and future plans.
The American delegation also visited Bengaluru, where they met three start-ups, two in the space sector and one in defence, and participated in an Indo-US conference.
