KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 26

Over 300 children are living with autism in Jhapa district, according to a comprehensive survey conducted by Karuna Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development in Koshi Province.

The survey identified a total of 381 persons with autism across 15 local levels in the district, comprising 254 male children, 28 female children and 45 adults. Those identified have been mainstreamed into health and education services to ensure access to necessary support and rehabilitation.

The identification effort is part of a five-year disability prevention and rehabilitation programme run by the provincial ministry across Koshi Province. The programme operates in Ilam, Morang, Sunsari, Khotang, Bhojpur, Panchthar and Sankhuwasabha districts, with disability rehabilitation services expanded to Jhapa, Taplejung and Tehrathum districts since last year.

Beyond autism, Jhapa district is home to 13,863 persons living with various disabilities. Local levels have been providing free therapy services to individuals with autism, while nearly 100 persons with vocal impairments receive education at Mahendra Ratna Secondary School in Garamani, Birtamod and at another school in Damak.

The survey represents a significant step in identifying and providing support to vulnerable populations, enabling local authorities to design targeted intervention and rehabilitation programmes for affected individuals and families.

(With input from RSS)