`Inclusive Periyar' launched to connect students with autism to nature: What it offers

A novel initiative to help students with autism engage with nature has been launched at Thekkady. Named `Inclusive Periyar,' the project is being implemented in collaboration with the Periyar Tiger Reserve and CEDRRE (Centre for Autism and Other Disabilities Rehabilitation, Research and Education) Autism Centre.

The project aims to transform Thekkady into an autism-friendly hub for nature study. As part of it, awareness sessions and training have been provided to forest department staff and guides, emphasising that autism is not a disease but rather a different way of experiencing the world. A comprehensive guideline has been prepared to actively involve staff in the initiative, highlighting the specific challenges faced by children with autism in communication, social interactions and responses to sounds and visuals, etc.

What the programme offers
As part of the programme, children will take part in short nature walks designed around the concept “more sights, more insights.” Activities will include boating, birdwatching, and other hands-on experiences. Organisers said the project will be further expanded based on feedback from the children, expressed through their writings and drawings. Nine children participated in the first learning camp, held here recently.

The initiative was conceived by Periyar Tiger Reserve Field Director P P Pramod, while the East Division (PTR) Deputy Director P U Saju and Assistant Field Director R Lakshmi are leading its implementation. Range Forest Officer Francis M Yohannan and Nature Education Officer Sethu Parvathi will coordinate day-to-day activities.