At PURPLE FEST 2025, Tech Mahindra Foundation, the CSR arm of Tech Mahindra Ltd., introduced “THE ABILITY NETWORK” (TAN), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing critical information and resources to persons with disabilities and their caregivers. This network will facilitate access to verified guidance through a collaborative partnership of organizations from both civil society and the private sector, helping individuals lead independent, dignified lives.
According to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, over 15% of the global population—about 1 in 6 people—experiences significant disability, with an estimated 70-80 million people in India living with various disabilities. Despite this large population, there remains a lack of an accessible, on-demand system offering timely support and information, particularly for marginalized communities.
Without early intervention, persons with disabilities often face exclusion from education, social discrimination, and barriers to a dignified life. Caregivers, despite their dedication, often struggle with isolation, a lack of support, and financial strain.
The Ability Network, launched by Tech Mahindra Foundation in collaboration with partners such as Enable India, Ujwal Impact Advisors, Nayi Disha, and Ekstep Foundation, is designed to address these challenges. Tech Mahindra Ltd.’s Maker’s Lab is providing technical support to this initiative. Together, they are working to create solutions that empower people with disabilities across India to live fulfilling, independent lives.
The initial phase of this project will focus on individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities in Telangana and Bengaluru. The platform, which will be available via both a web application and a mobile app in the coming months, will allow users to communicate their needs in their preferred language through text or audio. The network aims to foster a community that connects experienced solution providers, product innovators, and grassroots organizations with those in need of services and information.
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary – Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, MSJE (GOI), said during the launch, “Initiatives like The Ability Network can make a real difference by transforming the ecosystem and influencing policy change. It’s encouraging to see Tech Mahindra Foundation lead the way, and we encourage other organizations to join this cause.”
Chetan Kapoor, CEO of Tech Mahindra Foundation, underscored the importance of the initiative, stating, “For too long, accessing information and services for persons with disabilities and their caregivers has been difficult. The Ability Network will provide verified information and guidance to primary caregivers and will play a crucial role in advancing inclusion across India, benefiting not just individuals but the economy as a whole. We are thankful for the support of Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, and Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal in this initiative.”
Tech Mahindra Foundation (TMF) is the CSR division of Tech Mahindra Ltd., part of the Mahindra Group. Since 2006, TMF has focused on empowerment through education, with a strong emphasis on improving the lives of women and persons with disabilities. Operating in 26 locations across India and partnering with over 90 organizations, TMF has positively impacted 6,53,019 lives through its various initiatives since FY 2012-13.
The Ability Network aims to provide access to high-quality, affordable services and curated information through a variety of service providers. The network will collaborate with stakeholders from healthcare, education, vocational training, therapy, counseling, assistive technology, and more.
It will benefit not only end users but also nonprofits, for-profit companies, and social entrepreneurs who will find a broader customer base for their products. Additionally, the collaboration with government bodies will help drive systemic changes in policies that affect persons with disabilities. Currently, a team within Tech Mahindra Foundation is working closely with EkStep Foundation, UIA PwD, Nayi Disha, and Enable India to create the framework for TAN and prepare for its first phase of launch by June 2025.
