Written By: S Kumar
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is emerging as one of the most significant developmental challenges affecting children and families worldwide. To raise awareness, encourage inclusion, and promote evidence-based interventions, a state-level conference on autism spectrum disorder titled “Autism and Beyond: Navigating the Spectrum of Possibilities” is being organised in Hyderabad.
The conference will be held on 7th June 2026 (Sunday) from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Brahmakumaris Global Peace Auditorium, Gachibowli, Hyderabad. The event is expected to bring together more than 2,000 parents, carers, educators, therapists, medical professionals, institutions, researchers, and policymakers from across the state.
The conference will be graced by Sri Adduri Laxman Kumar Garu, the Honourable Minister for SC Development, Tribal and Minorities Welfare & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Telangana, as the Chief Guest.
Several distinguished personalities from government, healthcare, and the entertainment industry will attend the conference as Special Guests:
The event will also feature Dr V. Sravan Reddy Garu, Deputy Director, NIEPID–Secunderabad, as the Guest of Honour.
The conference will focus on several critical areas related to Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Experts will discuss the nature of autism, its symptoms, developmental characteristics, and the importance of awareness in creating a supportive society.
Specialists will highlight the importance of early identification and evidence-based therapies that can significantly improve developmental outcomes and quality of life.
Discussions will explore inclusive educational practices, classroom support systems, teacher training, and policy measures that ensure equal learning opportunities for children with autism.
Parents and carers will receive guidance on navigating challenges, accessing support services, and building stronger support networks for their children.
Medical professionals, therapists, educators, and researchers will share practical recommendations and discuss ways to strengthen autism support systems across Telangana and beyond.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, behaviour, and learning. Symptoms generally appear during early childhood and vary widely from person to person, making autism a spectrum condition.
Individuals with ASD may experience challenges in social communication and exhibit repetitive behaviours or highly focused interests. However, many individuals with autism also possess unique strengths, talents, and abilities that contribute positively to society.
Research indicates that autism is linked to differences in brain development and neural connectivity. Brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and cerebellum are believed to play important roles in autism-related characteristics. Scientists continue to investigate genetic and environmental factors associated with ASD.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one in every hundred children globally is affected by autism. Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of ASD has increased due to greater awareness, improved screening, and better diagnostic systems.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately one in thirty-six children in the United States has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Autism is diagnosed more frequently in boys than girls, with boys being nearly four times more likely to receive an ASD diagnosis.
Current estimates suggest that between one and one and a half per cent of children in India may be on the autism spectrum. This represents millions of individuals and families requiring support, services, and intervention programmes.
The INCLEN Diagnostic Tool Study reported a prevalence rate of approximately one in eighty-nine children in India, emphasising the need for stronger awareness programmes, intervention services, and inclusive policies.
The Dr Kiron Autism Mission was established to address the growing challenges associated with autism and developmental disabilities. Despite rising prevalence rates, significant gaps remain in awareness, diagnosis, professional training, educational inclusion, therapeutic support, and funding.
The mission seeks to bridge these gaps by bringing together medical experts, therapists, educators, researchers, institutions, and families to identify challenges and develop practical solutions that improve the lives of individuals with autism.
Through consultations, round-table discussions, and collaborative initiatives, the mission aims to create stronger support systems for families and advocate for meaningful policy reforms.
The State Level Conference serves as an important step toward building a more inclusive society for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The event aims to facilitate meaningful dialogue among experts, families, institutions, and policymakers.
The conference will showcase evidence-based approaches in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), therapeutic interventions, inclusive educational practices, family empowerment, assistive technologies, and interdisciplinary rehabilitation.
Insights and recommendations emerging from the conference will contribute to a comprehensive report on autism and related developmental disabilities. This report will be submitted to government authorities and relevant stakeholders to support informed decision-making and future policy development.
By fostering collaboration and collective action, the conference seeks to create greater awareness, stronger support systems, and better opportunities for individuals with autism and their families throughout Telangana and India.