Kolkata, 17 June, 2025 : Marking World Autistic Pride Day, Desun Hospital Kolkata, in collaboration with Bangalore-based Behavior Momentum India (BMI), has announced the launch of Mindspace Academy—Eastern India’s first hospital-integrated Autism and Neurodevelopment Support Centre grounded in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), the global gold standard in autism therapy.
This landmark initiative brings a much-needed evidence-based approach to autism intervention in a region historically underserved in this domain. ABA is a scientifically validated method known for its effectiveness in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition that affects 1 in 39 children globally. The spectrum nature of ASD presents a wide range of symptoms, making early, personalized intervention essential.
Themed “Pride in Every Mind: Building Inclusive Futures for Autistic Children,” the launch event brought together clinicians, educators, caregivers, and neurodivergent advocates to usher in a new era of dignified, accessible autism care in Eastern India.
Introducing an Integrated Model of Care
Mindspace Academy will offer a comprehensive care model, integrating early developmental screening, ethical behavioural therapy, caregiver support, and certified Assistant Behaviour Technician (ABT) training. This centre represents a systemic response to autism—merging science with social inclusion.
“This isn’t just about introducing a new therapy—it’s about reimagining autism care for Eastern India with dignity and data,” said Dr. Smita Awasthi, BCBA-D and Founder of BMI. She is one of the few professionals in India holding the globally recognized doctoral certification in ABA. “For far too long, families in this region have been without access to global best practices. That changes today.”
A Platform for Long-Term Change
Ms. Shaoli Dutta, Director of Neurodevelopmental Initiatives at Desun Hospitals, emphasized the initiative’s broader impact. “Inclusion isn’t about token gestures. It’s about systems that work. ABA at Mindspace Academy is part of a larger effort to build a scalable, responsive ecosystem for families.”
Since its soft launch in May 2025, Mindspace Academy has already served numerous families, initiated collaboration with local schools, and established clinical supervision frameworks that align with international standards.
Clinical Importance of Early Diagnosis
Dr. Bichitrovanu Sarkar, HoD of Paediatrics and Paediatrics ICU at Desun Hospital, underscored the need for timely diagnosis. “Early intervention is critical in ASD. Mindspace Academy will be the trusted resource Eastern India has long needed, offering structured diagnosis and therapy under one roof.” He highlighted the risks of untreated conditions in autistic children, which can exacerbate behavioural and health challenges.
Lived Experiences and Real Impact
Parents and caregivers shared powerful testimonials during the event. Mr. Shouvik Sarkar (name changed), father of an autistic child, said, “I used to feel completely alone. Now I know my child is seen for who he is—not just his symptoms.”
Three children who have successfully undergone ABA therapy and achieved meaningful social integration were felicitated for their resilience and progress.
Upcoming Programmes and Initiatives
As part of the broader vision, Desun-BMI also announced the rollout of:
- A caregiver-led support and learning series
- A school inclusion pilot in collaboration with educators
- A community awareness campaign across Bengal and Odisha
These initiatives will further the goal of building an inclusive, informed ecosystem for neurodivergent children and their families.
The event concluded with a call to action for stakeholders across healthcare and education to invest in building empathetic infrastructure and training to ensure that neurodivergent children receive not just intervention, but true inclusion.
