Web-based resource hub launched in Agra to help the blind
Agra, Jan 16 (IANS) A new web-based resource hub, "Drishti-Connect" was launched in Agra to assist people with sight problems solve their day to day issues and seek help from trained volunteers.
Akhil Srivastav, managing trustee of Antardrishti NGO, told IANS: "We have used the net-based technology to develop a national platform for the visually disabled. For instance, if a blind person wants to appear for an examination, he would need to find a writer."
"We have a data base and the person can easily contact the volunteer who would gladly assist. Similarly there is help for opening bank accounts, including Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circulars."
The idea for launching this app came during the deliberations at a three-day conference of blind and visually impaired persons from all parts of the country in 2014.
The initiative got support from the US based Anita Borg Institute which holds a contest in which women involved in developing techniques and technologies participate.
Of the two teams the app developed by Aiyasha Mustafa was chosen by Antardrishti. Six blind persons worked for a year to perfect it.
--IANS
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