Godrej Industries Group hosted its first Assistive Tech Conference 2025 in Mumbai on December 1, marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a strong call for technology-driven inclusion at workplaces. The conference brought together start-ups, corporates, researchers, disability-rights advocates, and athletes to explore solutions that can reshape accessibility across India’s workforce.
Parmesh Shahani, Head of Godrej DEI Lab, said the event reaffirmed that designing with empathy and equity can “build a world where everyone can thrive.” The conference featured 12 inclusive-tech start-ups, along with innovations from Access for All, NCPEDP, and AssisTech Foundation. Godrej Properties also launched its in-house app, ThisAbleMe Echo—an AI-powered sign language interpreter.
In Guwahati, industry observers noted that the Northeast’s growing service sector and tech-enabled enterprises stand to benefit significantly from accessible tools showcased at the conference. With job opportunities expanding in retail, financial services, and IT support in Guwahati, experts believe that assistive technologies could help bridge existing employment gaps for persons with disabilities in the region. Godrej’s IT and AI teams showcased AI-enabled communication tools, inclusive digital interfaces, and tactile learning aids. The EmployAbility Toolkit by GCPL and Atypical Advantage was also unveiled to guide companies on inclusive practices. Discussions later in the day emphasized user-led innovation, affordability, and policy reforms to mainstream assistive tech across India.