This special feature is brought to you by ITV Gold, the longest-running South Asian TV station in the U.S., and part of the largest Indian American media house, Parikh Worldwide Media.
In a world where people with disabilities often face systemic barriers, Pranav Desai stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. A polio survivor, global tech leader, and founder of Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), Desai has dedicated his life to changing the narrative around disability—from one of limitations to one of ability, dignity, and inclusion. His journey, advocacy, and groundbreaking initiatives have impacted over 37,000 lives across India and beyond, proving that disability is not an obstacle but an opportunity for empowerment.
From Personal Struggle to Global Impact
Pranav Desai contracted polio at the age of four, but he refused to let his physical limitations define his future. With unwavering determination and the support of his family—particularly his wife, Usha Desai—he built a successful career in the corporate world, eventually becoming the Head of Sales for North America at a leading IT services company. However, his true calling emerged when he realized that millions of people with disabilities lacked the opportunities he had been fortunate to receive.
In 2015, Desai founded VOSAP with a mission to mainstream disability inclusion through innovation, advocacy, and economic empowerment. His approach is unique: instead of focusing on charity, he emphasizes ability over disability, leveraging technology and policy changes to create sustainable impact.
Key Initiatives by VOSAP
1. Assistive Technology for Independence
VOSAP provides subsidized assistive devices—such as smart glasses for the visually impaired, hearing aids, and mobility aids—to help individuals overcome physical limitations. Desai highlights:
*”In the 21st century, technology can bridge gaps. A blind person can use AI-powered smart glasses to read a menu or navigate streets. These innovations aren’t luxuries; they are necessities for independence.”*
2. Policy Advocacy & Economic Inclusion
Desai has been instrumental in shaping disability policies in India, including contributions to Prime Minister Modi’s Vision 2020 manifesto. He advocates for tax incentives to encourage employers to hire people with disabilities, arguing:
“If businesses get a 200% tax deduction for hiring someone with a disability, they’ll do it. This creates jobs, boosts GDP, and reduces dependency on welfare.”
His ambitious Vision 2047 aims for a $1 trillion economic contribution from the disability sector in India by fostering entrepreneurship, skill development, and accessibility.
3. Healthcare Access for the Intellectually Disabled
Through Project HITAT, VOSAP helps families access government healthcare schemes like Niramaya, which covers therapies for intellectually disabled individuals. In just one year, the initiative has assisted 6,500 beneficiaries, disbursing ₹40 lakhs in reimbursements.
4. Youth Engagement & Global Outreach
VOSAP’s Ignite Program engages young volunteers in disability advocacy, research, and accessibility projects. Desai shared:
“We’re compiling stories of 200 extraordinary individuals with disabilities worldwide to inspire others. We’re also working to make the 2028 Paralympics in LA the most accessible ever.”
A Call to Action
Pranav Desai’s message is clear: disability inclusion is not just a moral duty but an economic opportunity. He urges the Indian diaspora and global citizens to:
- Donate (even $25/month can fund healthcare for a disabled person for a year).
- Volunteer with VOSAP’s initiatives.
- Advocate for inclusive policies in their communities.
As VOSAP Founder aptly puts it:
“The 20th century was about women’s empowerment. The 21st century must be about mainstreaming people with disabilities through technology and opportunity.”
How to Get Involved
- Website: www.voiceofsap.org
- Mobile App: iPhone(ios) | Android
- Pledge Portal: Take the Pledge
VOSAP Founder’s work demonstrates that with innovation, policy change, and collective effort, a fully inclusive world is not just a dream—it’s an achievable reality.
Join the movement. Be the voice of change.
