The 2^nd Autism Convention Kolkata 2025 was a first of its kind parent led initiative. It helped in redefining the conversations around autism and neurodiversity.

The theme of the convention was By the parents, for the parents.

The convention highlights the resilience of the parents who have turned their personal experiences into a mission to build an inclusive world for autistic individuals.

The inauguration was graced by Upali Roy Nee Mukherjee, Director and Ex-Officio Special Secretary, Directorate of Mass Education Extension, State Commissioner for Persons with disabilities, West Bengal, Bedanga Biswas, Joint Secretary, Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department, Merry Barua, Founder and Director of Action for Autism, and Dr. Jai Ranjan Ram, Consultant Psychiatrist.

The Autism Convention Kolkata 2025 is a three-day national event to help spread awareness, understanding, and empathy for individuals with Autism. The convention laid emphasis on the social model and advocates community parenting and working towards making Kolkata an autism-friendly city. Instead of solely focusing on therapy, academics, or fixing a kid with Autism, the event highlighted a lifelong approach to support and empower autism families in their journey.

Understanding Autism is something that goes beyond awareness. It calls for patience, compassion, and inclusion in all spheres of life. And the Autism Convention is a wonderful example of such an initiative.

Priyanka Dutta