The initiative aims to improve independent mobility, learning and daily interaction for visually impaired users through AI-enabled wearable technology offering navigation support, object recognition and real-time audio assistance across educational and rehabilitation environments.
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences has expanded its assistive technology initiative by distributing AI-enabled wearable smart glasses to visually impaired individuals, including children and teachers, to help them navigate and engage with their surroundings more independently.
The devices were handed over to 40 beneficiaries, comprising 32 students and eight teachers, during a programme organised in collaboration with Rotary District 3012, SHG Technologies and Vision Aid. According to officials, the wearable technology is designed to convert visual information into audio-based guidance, enabling users to better understand their environment in real time.
The AI-powered glasses include several assistive features such as text-to-speech reading, facial and object recognition, obstacle alerts, navigation support and emergency assistance functions. Medical experts associated with the initiative said the technology is intended to reduce dependency while improving accessibility in education and daily life.
Beneficiaries were selected from schools for the visually impaired in Delhi as well as from patients receiving treatment and rehabilitation support at the Dr RP Centre at AIIMS.
Focus on accessibility and independent learning
Doctors involved in the programme said structured training sessions are being conducted to ensure users can effectively operate the devices. The initiative currently targets individuals who have access to smartphones, as the glasses are integrated with mobile-based support systems.
According to Prof. Dr. Praveen Vashist from the department of community ophthalmology, the initiative forms part of a broader programme aimed at supporting visually impaired students across the Delhi-NCR region. He said nearly 1,500 students from specialised schools, along with teachers and patients attending low-vision rehabilitation clinics, have already been registered under the project.
He added that beneficiaries receive dedicated orientation and hands-on training before the devices are distributed. Earlier this year, the first phase of the initiative provided smart glasses to 53 users.
Each device is estimated to cost around ₹35,000, but beneficiaries are currently receiving them free of charge under the programme.
Technology seen as tool for greater inclusion
Speaking at the event, Prof. Radhika Tandon from the Dr RP Centre highlighted the growing role of AI-driven assistive technologies in healthcare and rehabilitation. She said such innovations can support greater independence by helping visually impaired individuals access education, employment opportunities and routine activities more confidently.
Organisers also indicated that feedback from users, particularly children, will be used to improve future versions of the technology and make it more accessible.
Representatives from Rotary District 3012 said the programme reflects ongoing efforts to improve quality of life and expand access to assistive technologies for visually impaired communities across the region.
