President’s Message

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior.There are no medical or genetic tests that can detect autism. Experts believe that autism presents itself in the first 3 years.

For years, India did not find the number or extent of the disorder. Doctors routinely called it a Western syndrome, doubting its prevalence here. It is undoubtedly, "one of the most misdiagnosed disorders." Autism in India is highly prevalent and rising. Experts estimate that every 2-6 children out of every 1000 have Autism. The prevalence rate of autism in India is 1 in 250 (figure may vary as many cases are not diagnosed) and currently 10 million people are suffering in India. The Govt. of India only recognized the disorder in 2001, till 1980s; there were reports that Autism didn't exist in India.

Autism warrants immediate attention and our collective efforts. In response to this urgent need, few of us (from different walks of life) decided to put together our ‘energy’ in providing support and services to persons with autism and their families, and to create an environment in India in which, people with Autism are able to grow to their full potential. In November 2014, Autism Welfare Society (AWS) ‘A Home for Autistic & Differently-Able Children,’ a non-profit charitable society (registered under the Government of Uttarakhand Society Registration Act) was founded by a group of people who have Passion, Love & Burden for the autistic & differently-able children in the foothills of Himalayan Mountain range the place call “Dehradun” Uttarakhand with an objective of Holistic Development of people with Autism.

We at AWS are committed to reach out with compassion, love and serve them (and their families) with our experience and expertise. Since 2014, we are engaged in providing our services in a limited manner (as of now), since mainstream schools are neither specially equipped nor are they willing to take admission for them.

We need your help, guidance, and cooperation in bringing a moment of joy and love in the lives of people with autism and their families. Please come forward to help us in various ways whereby we all become a ‘channel of blessing’ to our friends in need.

Yours truly,

Dr.Samuel George

President, AWS