ABB India, in partnership with the Association of People with Disability (APD), has significantly expanded access to rehabilitation and disability support services in rural Karnataka through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Since its launch in FY 2022, the project has delivered more than 27,000 rehabilitation interventions, helping thousands of persons with disabilities receive essential healthcare, mobility assistance, and rehabilitation services closer to their homes.

The initiative was introduced to bridge the gap in rehabilitation services for people living in remote and underserved areas, where access to specialised healthcare remains limited. By combining APD’s expertise in disability rehabilitation with ABB India’s CSR support, the programme has created a community-based model that focuses on early intervention, therapy, assistive devices, and long-term rehabilitation.

Over the past four financial years, the project has steadily expanded its reach across multiple districts in Karnataka. Services provided under the programme include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, counselling, disability assessments, fitting of assistive devices, caregiver training, and referrals for medical and livelihood support. The programme also works closely with local communities to improve awareness about disability rights and the importance of timely rehabilitation.

A key component of the initiative is the use of mobile rehabilitation services that bring healthcare directly to communities. These specially equipped units enable trained professionals to provide therapy and assessments in rural locations, reducing the need for beneficiaries to travel long distances to access specialised treatment. This approach has helped improve accessibility while lowering the financial burden on families seeking rehabilitation services.

Apart from direct rehabilitation support, the project also promotes social inclusion and independence among persons with disabilities. Beneficiaries receive mobility aids, rehabilitation plans, and guidance that enable them to participate more actively in education, employment, and community life. Caregivers are trained to continue rehabilitation practices at home, ensuring sustained improvements beyond clinical interventions.

Representatives from ABB India and APD highlighted that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building an inclusive society where people with disabilities can access quality rehabilitation services regardless of their location. They noted that strengthening community-based rehabilitation systems not only improves physical well-being but also enhances confidence, independence, and social participation among beneficiaries.

The project aligns with ABB India’s broader CSR strategy of supporting inclusive development and improving the quality of life for vulnerable communities. By leveraging partnerships with specialised organisations such as APD, the company aims to create sustainable social impact through targeted interventions in healthcare and disability inclusion.

With over 27,000 rehabilitation interventions completed between FY 2022 and FY 2026, the initiative has emerged as an important example of how corporate partnerships can strengthen healthcare access for persons with disabilities. The organisations plan to continue expanding their outreach and enhancing rehabilitation services so that more individuals in rural communities can lead healthier, more independent, and dignified lives.