Chandigarh
Theme: “Autism Beyond the Clinic: Lived Experiences of Families Through a Social Pediatrics Lens”
Chandigarh: The Department of Pediatrics, PGIMER Chandigarh, marked World Autism Awareness Day 2026 with a meaningful and inclusive program, reaffirming the global message “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value.” The event celebrated not just awareness, but the richness of human diversity and the importance of creating a truly neuroinclusive society.
The program was graced by Dr. Sanjay Jain, Dean, PGIMER Chandigarh, as the Guest of Honour, who emphasized the need for early identification, inclusive education, and strengthening support systems for children with autism and their families.
The event brought together a multidisciplinary team including Pediatric Neurologists, Pediatricians, Psychologists, educators, and community stakeholders—highlighting the importance of collaborative care in addressing autism.
Distinguished attendees included Abha Sharma Joshi, President, Rotary Club Chandigarh; representatives from Chandigarh Citizen Foundation (CCF) led by Col (Dr.) Dev; Prof. Ambuj, Government College; Kavita Das, Former Principal, St. John’s High School and currently Director Principal, GD Goenka School, Mohali; Neha, Primary School Teacher; and Geeta, Head of the Special Cell at Bhawan Vidyalaya. The event also saw active participation from members of the Rotaract Club, AIMS Mohali, along with residents, nursing staff, psychology students, parents, and community members.
A key highlight of the program was the “Voices of Autism” Parent & Caregiver Story Circle, where mothers and caregivers shared their lived experiences. Their narratives reflected the realities of navigating multiple therapies, making continuous educational accommodations, and accessing specialized healthcare services. The discussions brought attention to the significant parental stress, often compounded by complex caregiving demands, financial strain, and persistent social stigma.
In a particularly inspiring moment, a young adult with autism—born at PGIMER—shared his journey and achievements. He now runs a YouTube channel, “Cricket Ki Awaaz,” and expressed his willingness to connect, answer queries, and build friendships, symbolizing hope, ability, and inclusion.
Experts emphasized that autism must be understood beyond the clinic, with a focus on inclusive classrooms, supportive families, and compassionate communities that celebrate differences rather than stigmatize them.
The event also featured a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing unity, joy, and the celebration of diversity. Participants came together in a spirit of togetherness, reinforcing the message that every individual is unique and valuable.
The Rotaract Club, AIMS Mohali, reaffirmed its commitment to building a neuroinclusive society, pledging continued efforts toward awareness, acceptance, and community engagement.
The program concluded with a collective call to action—to move beyond awareness toward acceptance, inclusion, and celebration of diversity, ensuring that every individual with autism is valued and empowered to thrive.
