EOI - Partner NGOs to Collaborate for Inclusion of Children with Neurodivergent Conditions and Developmental Disabilities

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About the Organization

Shishu Sarothi is a leading NGO working in the disability space since 1987, with a proven track record of rights based services for children and persons with disabilities, across the domains of health, education and advocacy.

Based on the experience gathered over the years, and recognizing the need to improve understanding and encourage support for the fast-growing population of children with developmental disabilities, Shishu Sarothi with the support of Indus Towers Limited, is launching a multi-state initiative titled “Indus Towers Integrated Program for Inclusion and Empowerment” (2025–29), under the CSR initiative ‘Saksham’.

The project aims to create a collaborative cohort of likeminded organisations keen to change the discourse around inclusion and participation of children and persons with disabilities, through robust early intervention services, enhanced inclusive education practices, informed and empowered parents and caregivers and strong institutional capacities. Spanning 8 states across 6 zones, this first-of-itskind multi-state initiative will foster cross-regional learning and advocacy, creating a national network focused on developmental disabilities.

About the Proposal

Children and young people with disabilities in India often face barriers to education and, later, employment, which limits their chances of achieving economic independence and personal empowerment. This cycle of exclusion leaves them invisible and marginalized.

An equally urgent but less visible challenge lies with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD). Despite progress in education and disability inclusion, neurodivergent children remain among the mostunderserved. Systemic barriers, such as late or missed diagnosis, limited access to early intervention, shortage of trained professionals, and widespread stigma and ignorance, hinder their growth. By focusing on neurodiversity, this program aims to bridge these critical gaps. Early and inclusive support not only strengthens a child’s educational journey but also lays the foundation for long-term participation, independence, and dignity in society.

Through this initiative, we seek to to support strengthening of eco-system by:

• Conduct regional consultations and promote policy dialogue to strengthen community responses.
• Encouraging the provision of early intervention services for children (ages 3–8).
• Training government school teachers in inclusive education practices.
• Empowering parents and caregivers through training and peer support groups.
• Collaborating and building capacities of the cohort of 8 partner NGOs to sustainably deliver quality services.

Objective of this EoI

• The objective of this EoI is to identify 8 NGOs for collaboration, in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala, Assam, Tripura and Nagaland. The selected NGOs will partner at the state level with Shishu Sarothi to implement the program, supported by training, resources, and technical expertise.

Scope of Work

Partner NGOs will be expected to:

• Fully funded in-person training of 2 nominated employees (intervention personnel) from the onboarded organisation led by subject matter experts, including structured trainings, mentorship, and technical support.
• Deliver Early Intervention Services for children with neurodivergent conditions (screening, assessments, therapy, academic support, life skills training).
• Strengthen Inclusive Education by working with schools and teachers to build their capacities through training, classroom support, and practices that encourage participation and inclusion of children with disabilities.
• Engage with Parents and Caregivers through peer support groups, counseling, and capacity building.
• Promote Community Awareness through regional consultations, campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.
• Document Practices, share experiences and contribute to the development of knowledge products, case studies, and policy recommendations.
• Ensure Accountability and Reporting by maintaining programmatic and financial records, submitting regular reports, and participating in monitoring and evaluation activities.

How to Apply

Submit your EoI using the Google form -  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qrkjSvqdvkxI0ZlAzSvmW_UfdsOfHaSxl-y683sgH8Q/edit

Deadline: 15th September 2025

Evaluation process involves eligibility screening, on-site verification on criteria mentioned above, interaction with the organisation and nominated team members.

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