As conversations around diversity evolve, workplaces in India are increasingly recognizing the importance of autism inclusion. This crucial shift aims to empower individuals on the autism spectrum, enabling them to thrive both professionally and personally. Leaders like Vinu Peter of DBiz.ai and Karan Sehdev of Merch Matters are paving the way, but there is still much work to be done across industries and communities.
The Critical Need for Autism Inclusion
India is home to a vast neurodiverse population, yet meaningful inclusion remains a challenge. Autism inclusion is not just a moral imperative; it’s a societal need. Neurodiverse individuals bring unique perspectives and skills to workplaces, enriching innovation and creativity. However, their potential often goes untapped due to barriers like insufficient awareness, rigid work environments, and limited support systems. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts at both organizational and national levels.
Monica Singhal Kumar, Director of BloomBuds ASD, emphasizes the urgency of these efforts:
“India needs to strengthen its awareness campaigns to foster empathy and understanding across all levels of society. Schools, workplaces, and public spaces must be redesigned to accommodate neurodiversity. Key steps include promoting vocational training tailored to the autism spectrum and implementing workplace policies that support neurodiverse employees. Collaboration between government bodies, NGOs, and the corporate sector is essential to create an ecosystem where inclusion becomes a norm rather than an exception.”
DBiz.ai: Walking the Journey with Empathy
Vinu Peter, Director & Chief of People & Culture at DBiz.ai, shares how the organization is embracing neurodiversity. Partnering with initiatives like Ausome Bites and supporting the Autism Club, DBiz.ai has demonstrated how awareness can lead to action. From offering job opportunities to organizing inclusive experiences for students from Navajeevan School, the company is setting an example by infusing empathy and purpose into its culture. As Peter notes, “Every step counts — and we’re walking it with purpose, empathy, and an open heart.”
Merch Matters: Creating Spaces for Neurodiversity
Karan Sehdev, Founder of Merch Matters, highlights how workplace adjustments can unlock the potential of neurodiverse individuals. He stresses the importance of structured routines, low-sensory environments, and task breakdowns to cultivate comfort and confidence. Merch Matters embodies the idea that autism-friendly practices are not a checklist but a mindset shift toward celebrating neurodiversity.
Looking Ahead: Inclusion as a National Priority
As Indian workplaces adopt autism-friendly practices, collaboration remains key. Monica Singhal Kumar’s insights underline the need for systemic changes—from education to employment. Together, these steps will help India transition from token gestures to meaningful action, building a society where neurodiversity is embraced, celebrated, and supported.
The journey toward autism inclusion is ongoing, but with leaders like DBiz.ai, Merch Matters, and BloomBuds ASD, India is taking important strides toward a brighter, more inclusive future.