Panaji, March 20, 2026:
In a significant step towards promoting accessibility, independence, and dignity for persons with visual impairment, a Visual Smart Glasses Distribution Program was successfully organized in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Bardez Coastal, the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, and Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Goa. This meaningful initiative was a CSR effort by Parexel, implemented by United Way Bengaluru.
The program was graced by State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Guruprasad Pawaskar, as the Chief Guest. Also present were Smt. Varsha Naik, Director, Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Goa, and Rtn. Taha Haaziq, Secretary, Office of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Goa and President of Rotary Club of Bardez Coastal, along with other dignitaries and stakeholders.
Representing the corporate and implementation partners were Ms. Debyani Sarkar and Ms. Kavitha Muchandi from Parexel, Mr. Sriram A, Director – Impact, and Ms. Rutuja Birari, Executive from United Way Bengaluru, along with Mr. Sagar S from SHG Technologies.
Transforming Lives Through Technology
During the program, 20 SHG Smart Vision Glasses, each costing approximately ₹48,000, were distributed to visually impaired students and adults from across Goa.
These innovative assistive devices, powered by Artificial Intelligence, enable users to read printed text, recognize faces, identify objects, and navigate independently — significantly enhancing confidence, mobility, and inclusion.
In his address, Chief Guest Mr. Guruprasad Pawaskar encouraged all beneficiaries to make the best use of this advanced technology and continue striving towards independence and self-reliance.
Training for Effective Use
Following the distribution, a hands-on training session was conducted for all beneficiaries. Detailed guidance was provided on using the Smart Glasses, and queries of persons with disabilities were addressed to ensure maximum benefit.
The program was very well coordinated by Mr. Mahadev Sawant from the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, whose dedicated efforts ensured the smooth and successful execution of the event.
A Collective Step Towards Inclusion
This initiative reflects the strong collaboration between government bodies, corporate partners, and Civil Society organizations, working together to create an inclusive society where no one is left behind.
