Sun Apr 27 13:11:18 UTC 2025: ## Mysuru Walkathon Promotes Autism Acceptance
**Mysuru, Karnataka, April 27, 2025** – A three-kilometer walkathon was held in Mysuru on Sunday to raise awareness and promote the acceptance of autism within the community. Organized by the Devdan Foundation Learning Centre and the PADHA Trust as part of World Autism Awareness Month, the event, titled “Let’s Accept Autism – Walk of Hope,” drew a significant public turnout.
The walk, starting at the North Gate of Mysuru Palace and ending at the University of Mysore’s Athletic Ground, highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for autism. District Disability Welfare Officer Shankar Gowda Patil, who flagged off the event, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting individuals with autism, noting that it is one of 21 recognized disabilities.
Saswati Singh, a special educator advocating for autism awareness for nearly three decades, highlighted the significant increase in autism prevalence, estimating it to be as high as one in thirty to fifty children. She stressed the need for continued government support for such awareness initiatives. A psychiatrist from Revive Hospital, Dr. Krishna, also underscored the importance of understanding, early identification, and providing appropriate care for autistic individuals.
Participants called for increased awareness, early intervention programs, and greater social acceptance of people with autism. The event underscored the growing need for community support and government initiatives to address the rising prevalence of autism and improve the lives of those affected.
First Piper 