Air Force Family Welfare Association President Inaugurates Advanced Therapy Centre at Base Repair Depot Palam

Bhubaneswar: Neeta Chaudhari, President of the Air Force Family Welfare Association, inaugurated Umeed Niketan, an advanced therapy centre for children with special needs, at the Base Repair Depot (BRD) Air Force Palam on May 17. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several esteemed dignitaries, including Air Commodore Harsh Bahl, Air Officer Commanding of the Depot, and Wing Commander Reena Bahl (Retd), President of the Air Force Family Welfare Association (Local).

Umeed Niketan, a state-of-the-art facility, has been designed to provide a nurturing environment where children with special needs can develop life skills through tailored recreational activities. The centre offers a wide range of programs including sensory exploration, speech therapy, adaptive sports, and interactive immersive experiences. These programs are aimed at promoting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the children.

The facility will cater to nearly 55 specially-abled children, supported by a dedicated team of trained special educators. The centre is a testament to the Indian Air Force’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Air Force families, providing a supportive space for children with special needs to thrive.

The inauguration was conducted in a grand manner, with all regional Presidents of the Air Force Family Welfare Associations from across the country in attendance. The event also saw the presence of the spouses of all senior Air Marshals from the Delhi area, highlighting the importance and impact of this initiative.

Neeta Chaudhari expressed her gratitude and emphasized the importance of such facilities in fostering the development and well-being of children with special needs. “Umeed Niketan is a beacon of hope, providing essential support and therapy to our children, helping them to grow, learn, and lead fulfilling lives,” she remarked.

Air Commodore Harsh Bahl commended the initiative, stating, “This centre will significantly enhance the quality of life for many families in our community, offering the specialized care and support that our children deserve.”