Karnataka to provide 200 cochlear implants for deaf children this year

Karnataka has announced an ambitious initiative to expand access to cochlear implants for children suffering from hearing loss. The state government's 'Aalisu Kanda' programme aims to perform 575 surgeries in the fiscal year 2025-26, significantly increasing the number of beneficiaries receiving the life-altering devices.

The initiative will be rolled out in phases, with authorities prioritizing the completion of 75 implants in the initial stage over the next 60 days. This accelerated timeline underscores the state's commitment to addressing hearing impairment among its younger population at the earliest.

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that bypass damaged portions of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, enabling individuals with severe to profound hearing loss to perceive sound. The programme represents a significant investment in preventive healthcare and quality of life improvements for children in Karnataka.

The 'Aalisu Kanda' scheme aligns with broader efforts across India to enhance accessibility to advanced medical treatments in underserved regions. By scaling up the number of procedures, Karnataka aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent eligible children from accessing this critical intervention.

State health officials have indicated that the programme will operate through designated government and empanelled private hospitals, with selection criteria prioritizing children with the greatest need for auditory rehabilitation.