The Tamil Nadu government’s budgetary announcement that it would create a dedicated space for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with the Centre of Excellence for Persons with ASD at ₹25 crore, has enthused activists and educationists.
“There were repeated representations from parents for guidance regarding autism affected children and there was a need to fill that gap. The centre will provide all kinds of help from children to adults, including guiding their parents on ASD,” said a senior official from the Welfare of the Differently Abled Department. The centre will provide comprehensive services such as special education, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, vocational training, independent living skills, caregiver training and guidance to persons with ASD.
“In urban areas, there is some awareness about ASD and parents get their child diagnosed but in rural areas, it is lacking. There is also no data on autism affected children which the Centre for Excellence might help tackle,” the senior official added.
