Gujarat CM meets cochlear implant recipients in Ahmedabad

Bhupendra Patel interacted with children benefiting from the State’s cochlear implant support programme during a visit to Science City, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere.

The Chief Minister met 20 children who have received external speech processors under the initiative, which aims to support hearing-impaired children. The devices, provided free of cost by the State Government, are typically expensive and beyond the reach of many families.

During the visit, Patel accompanied the children to the aquatic gallery, where he encouraged them and engaged in friendly conversation. Parents expressed gratitude for the programme, describing it as life-changing for their children.

Launched under the school health initiative, the scheme has enabled cochlear implant procedures for over 3,500 children since 2014. In addition, a recent policy allows for free replacement of external speech processors for eligible beneficiaries.

Officials said the programme continues to expand with the support of medical specialists and government hospitals, aiming to improve speech and hearing outcomes for children across the State.