Kolkata, often called the City of Joy, is currently hosting a powerful national convention that showcases the extraordinary resilience of parents. These parents have transformed their personal experiences into a mission to create a more accepting world for their children with autism.
Parent-Led Initiative Redefines Autism Conversations
The three-day Second Autism Convention began in Kolkata on Thursday, marking a significant parent-driven effort to reshape discussions around autism and neurodiversity. Under the theme "By the Parents, for the Parents," the convention brings together parents and experts from diverse backgrounds to deliberate on building an inclusive society that ensures fair and equitable lives for individuals with autism.
During the inauguration, Upali Roy Nee Mukherjee, Director and Ex-Officio Special Secretary of the Directorate of Mass Education Extension and State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in West Bengal, emphasized the convention's importance. "The Autism Convention marks an important step toward greater awareness and inclusion. When parents and professionals come together with shared understanding and purpose, it leads to real change. Efforts like this remind us that every individual with autism deserves equal respect, opportunity, and a sense of belonging in society," she stated.
Shifting From Medical to Social Model of Autism
The national event aims to raise awareness, understanding, and empathy for individuals on the autism spectrum by amplifying voices that challenge stigma and inspire hope. In a significant departure from traditional approaches, the convention emphasizes the social model over the medical model of autism management.
Rather than concentrating solely on therapy, academics, or 'fixing' children with autism, the event champions a lifelong, solution-centric approach that supports and empowers families throughout their journey. The convention strongly advocates for community parenting and works toward establishing Kolkata as a genuinely autism-friendly city.
Collaboration Creates Real Impact
Dr. Rudrajit Sinha, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Organising Secretary of Autism Convention Kolkata 2025, explained the deeper purpose behind the event. "Understanding autism goes beyond awareness — it calls for compassion, patience, and inclusion in every sphere of life. This convention is an example of how collaboration between parents, professionals, and advocates can create real impact," he remarked.
The inauguration ceremony saw participation from several distinguished guests including Bedanga Biswas, joint secretary of the Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department, Merry Barua, Founder Director of Action for Autism, and Dr. Jai Ranjan Ram, Consultant Psychiatrist.
What made this convention particularly meaningful was its foundational principle—it was created by parents, for parents, representing an initiative led by those who navigate the autism journey every single day.
