Mysuru: Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced on Thursday that children with cleft-related speech disabilities are entitled to inclusive education and social benefits under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPwD Act), 2016. He was addressing the gathering at 'Indocleftcon 2026', the 24th annual conference of the Indian Society of Cleft Lip, Palate and Craniofacial Anomalies, held at the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Mysuru.
Landmark Development for Cleft Patients
Rao stated that a landmark development in recent years has been the inclusion of people with cleft lip and palate, particularly those with communication challenges, within the framework of disability rights. Under the RPwD Act, affected individuals are not only entitled to medical treatment but also to equal opportunities in education, employment, and social participation. This ensures a holistic approach to their well-being.
Prevalence and Impact of Cleft Conditions
Cleft lip and palate remain among the most common congenital anomalies worldwide. In India, one in 700 births results in a cleft condition, translating to tens of thousands of cases each year. Without timely care, these conditions can impact feeding, speech, hearing, facial growth, and psychosocial well-being, the minister emphasized.
Multidisciplinary Care and Modern Advances
Rao appreciated the conference theme—'Connect, Communicate, Collaborate'—and stressed the importance of multidisciplinary care involving surgeons, anaesthesiologists, orthodontists, paediatric dentists, and speech therapists. He welcomed modern advances such as virtual surgical planning, presurgical infant orthopaedics, and specialised speech therapy training, which are improving outcomes for patients.
Smile Train India's Contribution
The minister lauded Smile Train India for supporting over 7 lakh cleft surgeries across more than 150 partner hospitals through a sustainable model that trains local surgeons. Quality care is now reaching remote regions, ensuring that even underserved populations benefit from these services.
