Central Scheme Provides Free Cochlear Implants, Transforming Lives of Hundreds of Deaf Children
Asha, a 32-year-old homemaker, vividly recalls the moment her daughter Kirti, now 8, spoke her first word, “papa,” at a hospital in South Delhi. Kirti was born deaf and had not been able to hear or speak until she underwent free cochlear implant surgery under a Central government scheme in 2021. This transformative experience not only changed Kirti's life but also brought immense relief and joy to Asha and her family
Early Signs of Hearing Loss
The journey began when Kirti was just one and a half years old. Asha and her husband noticed that their daughter was not responding to sounds and often cried excessively. Concerned about her development, they consulted doctors, who advised them to get a cochlear implant. However, the cost of the procedure was prohibitive, exceeding ₹10 lakh, which was far beyond the couple's means. Asha's husband earns only ₹20,000 a month, making such an expense unfeasible for the family
Before the surgery, Kirti lived a life of isolation. She would often play alone with her dolls and miniature kitchen set, unable to engage with the world around her. The lack of communication and interaction prevented her from attending school, further limiting her social development
The Impact of Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants are electronic devices that provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe hearing loss. They work by bypassing damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulating the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to perceive sound. For children like Kirti, who are still developing language skills, early intervention through cochlear implants can significantly improve their ability to communicate and learn
In 2021, Asha learned about a Central government scheme that offered free cochlear implant surgeries for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This opportunity was a turning point for Kirti and her family. With the support of the scheme, Kirti underwent the surgery, which opened up a new world for her
A New Beginning
After the surgery, Kirti began to hear sounds for the first time. The initial activation of her cochlear implant was a momentous occasion for the family. Asha describes the overwhelming joy they felt when Kirti began to utter words, starting with “papa.” This milestone was not just a personal victory for Kirti but also a profound relief for Asha and her husband, who had longed to hear their daughter speak
As Kirti's hearing improved, so did her social interactions. She began to engage with her peers and started attending school, where she could learn and play alongside other children. The cochlear implant not only enhanced her ability to communicate but also enriched her overall quality of life. Asha noted that Kirti's newfound ability to hear has transformed her from a lonely child into an active participant in her community
The Broader Impact of the Scheme
The initiative to provide free cochlear implants under the Central government scheme has had a ripple effect, benefiting countless children like Kirti across India. The program aims to address the significant gap in access to hearing solutions for economically disadvantaged families. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 63 million people in India suffer from significant auditory impairment, with many children born with hearing loss going undiagnosed and untreated
By facilitating early detection and intervention, such programs are crucial for enabling children to develop essential communication skills. The success stories of children who have received cochlear implants highlight the importance of government support in transforming lives and providing opportunities for a brighter future.
