
Launch of Canary &
World Clubfoot Day Celebrations

Top Image: Launch of the Canary – Indoor Navigation Application
This image captures the launch of Canary, an indoor navigation application, by the Honourable Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Virendra Kumar.
Canary is an innovative accessibility tool, designed to help individuals, including those with visual impairments, navigate indoor spaces using NFC and Bluetooth-based guidance technology.
The setting is bustling with activity, as a group of key figures gathers around the Minister, who is engaging with the application interface and printed materials.
The group includes:
Dr. Mathew Varghese – A renowned orthopedic surgeon and an advocate for disability rights.
Mr. Andrews – Tech Lead at CURE India involved in the development and execution of accessibility projects.
Dr. Smriti – A Delhi University Professor and an expert in assistive technology and inclusive innovation.
Dr. Santosh G – A dedicated leader in healthcare solutions for persons with disabilities.
The Minister, wearing a white kurta, is deeply engaged in a discussion with the experts as he listens to explanations of the application’s features.
The expressions of the attendees reflect excitement and anticipation, marking a major step in making public spaces more accessible.
The background features informational banners, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to accessibility and technological advancements.
Bottom Image: World Clubfoot Day Celebrations, 2024
The stage is set for a grand celebration, featuring a large backdrop displaying the CURE India logo, the event title, and an image of a child undergoing clubfoot treatment.
The ceremonial aspects of the event include:
A red-patterned carpet covering the floor.
A brass lamp stand (diya) placed at the center, signifying a traditional Indian inauguration.
A distinguished panel of dignitaries stands behind a group of children, each holding posters promoting clubfoot awareness and treatment.
Key Personalities in the Image:
Shri Himanshu Thakur – A person with surgically treated clubfoot leading to permanent disability, now advocating for early medical intervention.
Dr. Santosh G – A leading expert in clubfoot treatment, known for medical advancements in non-surgical interventions.
Governor of Rotary – Representing Rotary International, which has actively supported clubfoot treatment programs worldwide.
IAS Officer – A senior Indian Administrative Service officer, instrumental in policy and healthcare implementation.
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS – The chief guest and inaugurator of the event, reaffirming his commitment to disability healthcare.
Dr. Bhaskar Chatterjee (Retired IAS) – A former senior bureaucrat advocating for social healthcare reforms.
Mr. Ratnesh – Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network India (UNGCNI), working towards sustainability and child welfare.
Children in the Image:
Six young children are seated in the front row, wearing golden paper crowns, symbolizing their triumph over clubfoot.
They are dressed in white and colorful outfits, adding a festive and celebratory tone to the event.
Each child holds a poster displaying a child undergoing clubfoot treatment, with the words "NEXT 200" written on it, representing the next phase in expanding the treatment program.
To the right of the children, a mother in a red and white saree holds a baby wrapped in a blanket, representing maternal care and the importance of early detection of clubfoot.
Key Metrics from 2022:
CURE India’s National Office moved to a new building, marking an expansion of operations.
-
91,177 children enrolled for clubfoot treatment.
-
370 clinics established, increasing accessibility.
-
225 districts covered, ensuring widespread treatment availability.
-
7,069 doctors trained, strengthening expertise in clubfoot care.
-
109 medical training sessions conducted, advancing medical knowledge.
Overall Significance:
This image captures two monumental events—one focused on technological accessibility through the launch of Canary, and the other on raising awareness and celebrating achievements in clubfoot treatment. The presence of senior government officials, medical experts, and rehabilitated children underscores the progress made in both disability inclusion and pediatric healthcare.
The expressions of hope, gratitude, and determination among the children, dignitaries, and medical professionals make this a powerful representation of how healthcare and technology can transform lives.