States » SouthPosted at: Oct 28 2026 7:29PM


UNICEF-PIB workshop calls for early detection of childhood disabilities, inclusive care

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 28 (UNI) Early identification of developmental delays and disabilities, timely intervention and an inclusive healthcare system are crucial to ensuring that every child receives the care and support needed to thrive, a media workshop jointly organised by the Government of India and UNICEF has highlighted.
The one-day workshop on Inclusive Early Childhood Development (iECD), held here on October 27, focused on sensitising media professionals to childhood disabilities, inclusive parenting, accessible healthcare and the media’s role in building a more empathetic society.
V. Palanichamy, Additional Director General of the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Thiruvananthapuram, said the media could play a vital role in identifying excluded sections of society, bringing their concerns to the forefront and fostering empathy.
Syam Sudhir Bandi, Communications Specialist at UNICEF, underscored the financial burden health challenges impose on families and stressed the need for government intervention to ease it. He also highlighted the importance of using technology effectively in reporting on disabilities.
Vivek Virendra Singh, Lead Health Specialist at UNICEF India, introduced the concept of inclusive early childhood development, highlighting the importance of recognising developmental delays and disabilities at an early stage.
Deepa Bhaskaran, Director of the Child Development Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, spoke on parenting children with spectrum disabilities, while Amar S. Fettle, State Nodal Officer of the National Health Mission, Kerala, discussed strategies for building an inclusive health system.
A session on the use of artificial intelligence for effective storytelling was led by Murale Krishna Chinnadurai, Google News Initiative India Network Trainer and AI expert.
The workshop aimed to strengthen media awareness of inclusive early childhood development and the need to ensure timely access to appropriate care, intervention and support for children with developmental delays and disabilities. Parvathy V., Director of the PIB, Thiruvananthapuram, proposed the vote of thanks.
UNI DS
Tags: #UNICEF-PIB workshop calls for early detection of childhood disabilities# inclusive care
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