Hyundai Motor India and Samarthan Trust to Empower PwD with Technology

In its unwavering commitment to society, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) 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 under its Samarth Assistive Devices Programme by Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF) and Samarthanam Trust for the disabled, 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 684 assistive devices over the next three years. These devices encompass a wide range of innovations, from hearing aids, wheel chairs, digital kits for the visually impaired, and bionic limbs to other devices. These technologically advanced assistive devices aim to enhance the recipients' mobility, vision, hearing, and communication capabilities.

The day-long conclave served as a platform for crucial dialogues revolving around topics such as enabling inclusion through assistive devices, challenges surrounding disability in India, and investment in assistive technologies for para sports. Distinguished panelists, 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 the '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 in empowering 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.”

Launched in Nov’2023, our ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ initiative aims to enable an inclusive, progressive world through the power of mobility. Through this initiative, Hyundai aims to help create a more aware and sensitized society towards people with disabilities in India. With the launch of ‘Samarth’, Hyundai Motor India is India’s first automobile company to launch an inclusive mobility project at a mass scale with a comprehensive effort to ensure that the digital presence is accessible to all, Hyundai Motor India under this initiative is ensuring that its website is user-friendly for people with disabilities. The company also strives to make its physical business locations accessible and accommodating to people with disabilities. Additionally, Hyundai Motor India is developing and introducing swivel seats and accessories with MOBIS in an attempt to enhance the differently-abled friendliness of the cars.

SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE