Mysore: A programme was organised  by the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing  here  to mark its stepping into the 50th year of its existence. The AIISH was established in the year 1965 as an autonomous institute fully funded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.The major objectives of the institute are to impart professional training, render clinical services, conduct research and educate the public on issues related to communication disorders such as hearing impairment, mental retardation, voice, fluency and phonological and language disorders.

Speaking at the function, Dr A K Panda, Additional Secretary (Health), said that there was a need to create awareness in the society regarding the institute as many were unaware about the existence of such an institute which treats hearing impairment, mental retardation, voice, fluency, phonological and language disorders.

Prof Gautam Biswas Director, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati who was also present as a chief guest said medical technology should improve a lot in order to give better treatment to people having communication disorders such as hearing impairment and mental retardation.

 Prof Sudesh Mukhopadhyay, Chairperson Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi,  in her address said knowledge must be shared and people with disorders must be helped. She congratulated and wished Dr S R Savitri Director AIISH for doing good work in the institute.

Prof Ajish K Abraham HOD Electronics and Coordinator and Dr S R Savitri, Director AIISH were also present.

Dr N. Ratna, the first employee  of AIISH was felicitated on the occasion.