National Institute of Visually Handicapped

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyangjan), Dehradun (formerly known as National Institute for the Visually Handicapped) is a premier organisation under the administrative control of Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. Institute is training centre for the blind, located in an area of about 43 acres on Mussoorie-Dehradun Highway. It is also engaged in production of Braille literature, aids and appliances for visually disabled people. It also undertakes research and developmental activities ensuring emergence of disability inclusive policies, programmes and practices. The institute is governed by the Management & Advisory Bodies. The aims and objectives of the NIVH as stated in the Memorandum of Association are as follows: To conduct, sponsor, co-ordinate and/or subsidize research in collaboration with other NGOs and research organizations including Universities into various dimensions of the education and rehabilitation of the visually impaired. To undertake, sponsor, co-ordinate or subsidise research into biomedical engineering leading to the effective evaluation of special appliances/instruments or suitable surgical or medical procedures or the development of new special appliances/instruments. To undertake or sponsor the training of trainees and various specialized professionals including Teachers, Employment Officers, Psychologists, Vocational Counsellors and such other personnel as deemed necessary. To distribute, promote, or subsidise the manufacture of prototypes and to manage distribution of any or all devices designed to promote any aspect of the education, rehabilitation or employment of the Visually Impaired. Departments: Special Education and Research Skill Development (TCAB) Model School National Accessible Library Rehabilitation Psychology & Research Technology Application & Research Braille Development The first institution was the St.