Mumbai : April marks Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, spotlighting the global need for inclusive policies, timely interventions, and robust caregiver support. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 100 children globally, highlighting an urgent need for systemic support and change. In India, research indicates that roughly 1-1.5% of children aged two to nine years are diagnosed with autism, translating to millions of children needing immediate attention and resources.
Responding to this critical need, award-winning journalist and BBC 100 Women honoree Mugdha Kalra introduces her influential book, “I See You, I Get You: The Self-Care Guide for Special Needs Parents.” Kalra combines personal experiences as a caregiver with professional insights to address emotional, financial, and social challenges. Her book underscores the significance of corporate inclusion policies, stressing their potential to transform the lives of families and communities.
In parallel, Bookosmia launches “Dhwani – Voices of Practitioners Driving Inclusion in Classrooms,” a comprehensive resource created by special educator Shwetha Srivatsan in collaboration with prominent education experts. Dhwani equips educators with practical strategies to implement inclusive teaching effectively, while also emphasizing the importance of teacher well-being and professional support.
Why This Matters:
• Rapidly rising autism diagnoses demand early and effective interventions.
• Persistent stigma and limited access delay timely diagnosis in India.
• Educational and corporate environments in India lack sufficient inclusive practices and caregiver support frameworks.
