Bajaj finserv empowers differently abled persons in pune with hi tech mobility solutions

Bajaj Finserv Ltd., one of India's leading and diversified financial services groups, has committed support to differently-abled persons by providing hi-tech mobility solutions that enable them to integrate into mainstream society. The initiative is part of Bajaj Finserv's social responsibility programme, aimed at driving equitable and inclusive opportunities for children and youth. It is being funded and driven through its subsidiary, Bajaj Alliance General Insurance, in partnership with Round Table India, a non-profit working to improve the lives of differently-abled persons. The initiative was launched at an event in Pune where 40 differently-abled persons identified by Round Table India were provided customised wheelchairs fitted with Neo-Fly, a hi-tech mobility solution that converts the wheelchair into a roadworthy vehicle. The devices are an indigenous innovation by Neo-Motion, a start-up from R2D2 of IIT Madras. The first recipients of the solution were largely individuals with quadraphegia, including ex-servicemen, para-athletes, and homemakers. Under the initiative, 200 hi-tech mobility solutions will be provided by Bajaj Finserv to recipients across India. Present at the event were Shefali Bajaj, Chairperson, CSR Steering Committee, Bajaj Finserv, Ajay Sathe, Group CSR Head, Bajaj Finserv, Tapan Singhel, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, and senior officials of Round Table India and Neo Motion." Shefali Bajaj, Chairperson of CSR Steering Committee, Bajaj Finserv, said, “The initiative is life-transformative for the differently-abled. It ties in with our efforts to advance inclusion among children and youth by giving them equal access to resources, health, education and opportunities. The hi-tech device gives recipients improved access, a feeling of freedom and goes a long way towards integrating them into mainstream society. It is heart-warming to see the smiles on recipient’s faces when they receive the devices. For us, it’s deeply satisfying to be able to make a tangible impact on people’s lives.” Tapan Singhel, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance said, “As a group, Bajaj Finserv has always believed in giving back to society and making a positive impact on communities. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance resonates the Group’s philosophy and strives to take measures that add value to lives of our citizens. Many fellow Indians who use wheelchairs face numerous challenges in their routine lives, which restricts their career opportunities, thus hampering them economically. As part of this initiative, we have donated 200 hi-tech mobility solutions to suit the health and lifestyle needs of users, empowering them to move around with much ease. Our endeavour is to make a difference in society and contribute to the well-being of the citizens of this country so that they can live a life of dignity.” Ajay Sathe, Group CSR Head, Bajaj Finserv, said, “The initiative illustrates how technology can be leveraged for social impact. The hi-tech mobility solutions improve access for differently-abled persons, enabling them to pursue an active liberated lifestyle. With increased availability of these devices, its macro socio-economic impact can be game-changing. We are happy to associate with Round Table India. They have done some terrific work in identifying the recipients and getting this initiative off to a great start. “ India has approximately 3 crore differently-abled persons who face mobility challenges and are heavily dependent on a support ecosystem for their fundamental necessities. Restricted mobility impacts their ability to move outdoors, earn livelihoods and grow economically. The hi-tech mobility devices provided by Bajaj Finserv are compact wheelchairs customised to an individual’s posture and energy, and are fitted with a motor-powered clip-on device that converts the wheelchair into a safe, roadworthy vehicle. It eliminates the need to transfer the person into other vehicles and can be independently attached by the user within seconds. The powered wheelchair has a maximum speed of 25 kmph and can travel up to 25 km per charge. To enhance its utility, the solution has been made compatible to rugged conditions. Recipients can access the outdoors with the solution, pursue an active liberated lifestyle, be independent and explore a world of opportunities including education and employment.