đď¸ Episode Spotlight Gabify: A Nation Speaks â Understanding Speech & Neurological Disorders in India
- Sahil Chopra
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
Featuring: Dr. Namita Joshi, Hon. General Secretary, ISHA
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Namita Joshi to explore the state of speech and neurological disorders in India â and the path forward.
đ§ Key Highlights:
đ A Spectrum of Challenges and Disorders
Dr. Joshi presents a holistic view of communication disorders in India â from Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia in children to Aphasia and Dementia in adults â and emphasizes the increasing need for early intervention and medical speech-language pathology.
đĽ Gaps in Accessibility and Workforce
India faces a critical shortage of practicing speech-language pathologists (SLPs)Â â with fewer than 5,000 active professionals serving a vast population. Rural regions remain underserved, with challenges rooted in limited training institutes, low awareness, and logistical hurdles.
đ Rise of Teletherapy & Technology
The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed the rise of teletherapy, bridging urban-rural divides and enabling access through digital platforms. Dr. Joshi highlights that when connectivity is strong, teletherapy can be as effective as in-person sessions â especially with tools that leverage AI for assessments and monitoring.
đ¤ AI as a Support System, Not a Replacement
While technology is transforming neurodevelopmental care, AI is seen as a complement â helping with data tracking, early screening, and therapist productivity. Yet, the heart of therapy remains human: empathy, experience, and observation.
đ¤ Gabify x ISHA: A Shared Vision
Gabifyâs mission to revolutionize Awareness, Accessibility, and Affordability aligns deeply with ISHAâs goals. Both sides envision collaborations that support therapist networks, multilingual resources, and increased reach to rural communities.
đ Speech & Hearing: A Career with Purpose
Dr. Joshi passionately advocates for speech and hearing sciences as a deeply fulfilling profession â one that requires patience, positivity, and empathy. From their personal journey inspired by working with hearing-impaired children to policy leadership today, their story underscores the power of purpose-driven careers.
đ Why This Matters
This conversation is more than a podcast â itâs a call to action for parents, educators, clinicians, and policymakers. Itâs about building an inclusive India where every child and adult with a communication disorder gets the care they deserve â with human touch and intelligent technology working hand-in-hand.
đ§ Listen now on www.gabify.life and all major podcast platforms.
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