Bengaluru, September 18, 2026: APD’s Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation (SCIR) Programme has marked 25 years of rehabilitation services, bringing together government leaders, policymakers, clinicians, hospitals, researchers, donors, corporate partners and persons with lived experience of spinal cord injury (SCI) in Bengaluru.

The milestone was observed during Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month through an event titled “Celebrating 25 Years of Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation” at Dwaraka Auditorium, Ramaiah Medical College. As one of India's top specialised centres for Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation, APD’s SCIR centre has been part of the evolution of SCI rehabilitation in India.

The event focused on the development of SCI rehabilitation and the wider support systems required for people with spinal cord injuries to rebuild their lives beyond clinical rehabilitation.

The programme featured a five-zone immersive exhibition tracing the SCI rehabilitation journey from injury to independence. It also included the launch of three publications: 25 Years, 25 Stories, Caring with Confidence, and the SCI APD Situation Report.

Three panel discussions examined SCI rehabilitation in India, welfare gaps faced by persons with SCI and the case for a National SCI Social Registry. The discussions brought together stakeholders from across the rehabilitation and healthcare ecosystem.

A recognition ceremony was also held to acknowledge beneficiaries, caregivers, staff, donors, and government and hospital partners associated with the programme over its 25-year journey.

The event was attended by Chief Guest Prof. (Dr.) Pratima Murthy, Former Director, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS).

The 25-year milestone highlighted the need for a broader SCI support ecosystem involving healthcare institutions, government agencies, researchers, donors, corporate partners and persons with lived experience.