Annie—a self learning Braille device, an initiative of Ranchi district administration, may soon be implemented across the country.
Vice chairman of NITI Ayog, Rajiv Kumar has written a letter to Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Thaawarchand Gehlot to advice the other State governments to implement similar solutions for visually impaired in government schools.
The letter mentions, “Ranchi district administration has taken an important step towards improving Braille literacy through the introduction of 'Annie' - India's first self learning Braille literacy device for the visually impaired. The device is developed by 'Tinkerbell Labs', an Indian start-up based out of Bengaluru, and is based on the latest technology. You may like to get the device evaluated at your end and subsequently advice State governments to implement similar solutions for the visually impaired in Government schools.”
The device, developed to achieve the goal of inclusive education using the district innovation fund, was first introduced in Government Blind School, Harmu of Ranchi in July 2018. The device enables students with visual impairment to self-learn Braille in a fun and innovative manner. The standalone device is tailored to teach Braille in both English and Hindi language through lessons, games and various exercises.
The functioning of device is quite simple and can help deal with the crisis of shortage of teachers for children with special needs. Once the device is switched on, the user is guided by the audio instructions. Input from user is taken via ergonomic Braille keys and a uniquely developed digital Braille slate. Using this software, the user can learn Braille of any language in any medium or instruction.
Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi, Rai mahimapat Ray said, "This is a proud moment for us. Project Annie was appreciated when we made a presentation for the PM Excellence Award and now NITI Ayog has recommended its adaptation by other States."
Ray said that the district administration is ready to provide a technical assistance if any State is willing to adopt it.