Arunachal CM Distributes AI-Powered Reading Devices to Students with Disabilities

Arunachal CM Empowers Differently-Abled Students with AI-Based Reading Devices

In a significant step toward inclusive education and digital empowerment, students of the Donyi Polo Mission School for the Hearing and Visually Impaired in Chimpu, Arunachal Pradesh, have been equipped with AI-powered reading devices called ‘KIBO’. This initiative marks a landmark moment for the state in integrating technology to support differently-abled learners, enabling them to independently access a wide range of content in various formats.

The AI-based KIBO devices are designed to assist visually and hearing-impaired students by allowing them to read printed, handwritten, and digital content with ease. With this tool, students can navigate educational material in their own language and at a pace comfortable for them, thereby fostering both independence and confidence.

During the distribution ceremony, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu personally handed over the devices to the students. Speaking on the occasion, he underscored the importance of inclusive innovation. “Real progress happens when innovation meets compassion, and when no one is left behind,” he remarked, emphasizing that initiatives like KIBO reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring equal educational opportunities for all, regardless of physical ability.

The Donyi Polo Mission School has played a pioneering role in the field of special education in Arunachal Pradesh. It was established in 1990 by former Chief Minister Gegong Apang with the aim of providing a nurturing and learning environment for hearing and visually impaired students. Over the years, the school has grown in both capacity and reputation, becoming a beacon of inclusive education in the region.

In recognition of the school's outstanding contribution, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has taken several proactive steps to support its continued growth and sustainability. Recently, the state government enhanced the school's annual grant-in-aid from previous levels to ₹2 crore. This increase is aimed at improving infrastructure, training faculty, acquiring learning aids, and providing better services to students.

In addition to the enhanced annual funding, the government has also announced the creation of a ₹5-crore corpus fund. This fund is intended to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the institution, enabling it to plan and implement programs for future generations of students without financial constraints. It also symbolizes the state’s long-term vision of building a more inclusive society where every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education and technological support.

The integration of KIBO devices at the school is a forward-looking step, aligning with broader national and global trends of using AI and assistive technology to bridge educational gaps. It is expected to serve as a model for other institutions across the Northeast and the country.

In summary, the initiative not only showcases the power of combining technology with empathy but also reflects Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to inclusive development. Through tools like KIBO and increased government support, students with hearing and visual impairments are being empowered to learn independently, break barriers, and participate actively in the digital and educational mainstream.