Understanding Neurodiversity:
Nurturing Unique Minds

Discover How Pay Autention and E-Sanidhya Support Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Understanding Neurodiversity:
Nurturing Unique Minds

Discover How Pay Autention and E-Sanidhya Support Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Introduction

An estimated 1 in every 100 children is on the autism spectrum (WHO), yet access to structured support remains limited, particularly in underserved regions. Autism is a natural variation in how individuals experience the world, influencing communication, learning, and social interaction. With the right support, individuals on the spectrum can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

For over a century, Tata Group has worked towards enabling equitable and sustainable development, shaping initiatives that create lasting social impact. Tata Power, guided by its “Leadership with Care” philosophy, carries this vision forward by fostering inclusive and sustainable growth through initiatives that empower communities.

As part of this commitment, Tata Power launched Pay Autention in 2022—India’s first Phygital (Physical + Digital) Autism Support Network—to equip parents, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals with essential tools and resources for autism support.

Building on this foundation, E-Sanidhya was introduced in December 2024 as a comprehensive digital platform to enhance accessibility to autism care. By integrating expert consultations, early screening, therapy programs, and caregiver support, E-Sanidhya aims to bridge critical gaps in autism awareness and intervention, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.

 

What is autism?

Autism is a natural variation in how individuals experience and interact with the world. It influences communication, social interaction, and information processing in diverse ways. Since no two autistic individuals are the same, autism is described as a spectrum, reflecting the wide range of strengths, challenges, and support needs individuals may have. Some may communicate fluently but find social situations challenging, while others may prefer nonverbal communication. Similarly, some may require structured support, while others navigate life independently.

Rather than viewing one way of thinking as 'normal,' it is important to recognize that people experience and interpret the world in many different ways. This diversity in cognition and perception is known as neurodivergence. By fostering awareness and understanding, we can create an environment where autistic individuals are supported in ways that respect their unique perspectives, strengths, and needs.

Every child experiences the world in their own way, and for autistic children, feeling understood, accepted, and supported can make a meaningful difference. Caregivers, educators, and communities play a vital role in creating environments where autistic children can thrive. 

Here are a few ways to offer meaningful support:


1.   Empathy and Understanding: Take the time to listen, observe, and respect their perspectives. Encourage self-expression in ways that feel natural to them.

2.   Consistent Routines: Predictable routines can provide a sense of stability and comfort, helping children navigate daily life with greater ease.

3.   Access to Professional Guidance: Seek insights from professionals with experience in autism support. Their expertise can help tailor strategies that nurture the child’s strengths and needs.

*   Need Guidance? Call 1800 209 9488 (toll-free) or click here to connect with a specialist for personalized support.

4.   Personalised Learning Approaches: Every child learns differently. Using autism-friendly resources tailored to their pace and learning style can help them engage and grow in ways that feel natural and supportive.

 Click here  to explore expert-curated learning resources on E-Sanidhya.

5.   Building a Support Network: Connecting with parent support groups and autism communities can provide valuable shared experiences, guidance, and encouragement. Being part of a supportive community fosters understanding and helps families navigate their journey with confidence.

*   Join online parent support groups on E-Sanidhya to connect with others, share experiences, and access valuable guidance on autism support.


Find all these support tools and resources in one place on E-Sandhiya. Click here to explore.

 

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An autism support network helps in bridging the gaps in autism awareness

 

Pay Autention: Enabling Early Support for Autism

Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT) empowers parents, caregivers, Anganwadi workers, and teachers with the knowledge and tools to support autistic children through early intervention.

Recognizing the importance of timely support, Pay Autention provides access to resources that help children develop communication, social, and learning skills. By offering a mix of online and offline support, the initiative ensures families and caregivers have the guidance they need, no matter where they are.

With a vision to reach and support more families across geographies, Pay Autention fosters a strong and inclusive support network for autism care.


Join Pay Autention and be a part of the change.

 

E-Sanidhya: Expanding Access to Neurodiverse Care

E-Sanidhya is a comprehensive digital platform designed to support neurodiverse individuals, caregivers, and inclusion advocates across India. With 500+ network partners, it enhances access to quality care, particularly in underserved areas, benefiting 8,900+ users.

As an extension of Tata Power’s Pay Autention initiative, E-Sanidhya provides early screening, 24/7 tele-support, and specialized care—right at people’s doorsteps. Recognized among 16 transformative initiatives by the Government of India at Vigyan Bhawan on December 3rd, 2024, it was also featured in CII’s Sustainability Summit Compendium for advancing inclusive healthcare.


Key Features of E-Sanidhya

1.   Early Screening & Online Consultations – Quick access to expert assessments and guidance.

2.   24/7 Tele-Support – Round-the-clock assistance for caregivers.

3.   Home Care & Learning Resources – Therapy tools, educational content, and interactive activities.

4.   Community Support Hub – A space for parents and educators to connect and share insights.


Support for Autism Caregivers

1.   Expert Guidance – Personalized support from autism specialists.

2.   Support Groups – Connect with caregivers for shared learning.

3.   Inclusive Programs – Specialized initiatives for individuals and families.

4.   Learning Resources – Practical tools to enhance caregiving.

 

Get in touch with a specialist

 

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E-Sanidhya is a digital platform to support neurodiverse individuals

 

Our Impact

1.      Capacity Building & Awareness: Trained 2,200+ public workers and conducted 49+ awareness sessions nationwide.

2.      Screening & Early Intervention: Screened 2,000+ children through E-Sanidhya, identifying 200+ at high risk and referring 300+ for further care.

3.      Community & Caregiver Support: Strengthened home-care training and therapy support for caregivers.

4.      Digital Learning & Accessibility: Empowered neurodiverse individuals through Pay Autention’s YouTube tutorials.

 

Bottomline

Autism teaches us to recognize, respect, and celebrate the diverse tapestry of human minds. By embracing neurodiversity, we transform differences into strengths and challenges into opportunities. Each neurodiverse individual adds unique colors to the palette of humanity, reminding us that understanding and care give life deeper meaning. Through E-Sanidhya, we build a more inclusive world—one where every individual is empowered to thrive.
 

Frequently asked questions


Neurodiversity recognizes the natural differences in how people think, learn, and interact with the world. It embraces variations like autism as part of human diversity rather than as disorders.


Autism is one of many expressions of neurodiversity. Rather than being seen as a condition to "fix," it represents a unique way of experiencing and processing the world, with differences in communication, social interaction, and behavior.


Creating a nurturing and understanding environment is key. Providing structured routines, using autism-friendly learning resources, and engaging with community networks can help children thrive. Seeking guidance from autism support services also plays a crucial role.


E-Sanidhya is a digital platform that combines technology with compassion to provide integrated support for neurodiverse individuals, including those with autism. It offers early screening tools, online consultations, 24/7 tele-support, and community hubs, making quality care more accessible across India.


E-Sanidhya provides professional consultations, tele-support helplines, interactive learning tools, and community support groups to help caregivers navigate autism care with expert guidance and peer support.


Exploring both online and local resources is essential. Look for reputable autism support networks, connect with community groups, and consult professionals with expertise in neurodiversity care. Platforms like E-Sanidhya offer a comprehensive support system, linking families to the right tools and resources.