Nekram Upadhyay
Founder & CEO

Nekram Upadhyay is a visionary Leader in the area of Assistive Technology, Rehabilitation Engineering and Accessibility. He stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering in India. With a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, he has dedicated over two decades to advancing this field on a global scale.
Upadhyay has dedicated over 20 years to working with the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre hospital and other the healthcare and rehabilitation organizations. During this time, he has made significant contributions to the development and implementation of Assistive Technology, particularly for individuals with spinal injuries. His work has focused on enhancing mobility, independence, and quality of life for patients through innovative solutions and customized assistive devices.
Upadhyay’s journey in this field began with his academic pursuits at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he specialized in assistive technology as a Ford Foundation Fellow. His expertise and dedication have been widely recognized, earning him the prestigious Universal Design Award in both 2013 and 2019. These accolades underscore his contributions to developing solutions that significantly enhance accessibility and functionality for individuals with disabilities. Throughout his career, Upadhyay has been instrumental in mentoring early-stage innovations in assistive technology. His guidance and vision have fostered advancements that address critical challenges such as cost, awareness, and language barriers in the adoption of assistive technologies.
His extensive experience has positioned him as a leading expert in the field, with a deep commitment to improving the lives of people with disabilities.
As the founder of the International Centre for Research on Assistive Technology and Accessibility (i-CReAT), Upadhyay’s mission is to address the unmet needs of people with disabilities in India. Through innovative, user-driven solutions. i-CReAT aims to integrate assistive technologies into mainstream society, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Upadhyay’s dedication extends beyond technological solutions; he is a fervent advocate for community integration and socialization for people with disabilities. His efforts aim to create a more inclusive society where individuals with disabilities can thrive independently.
Internationally, Upadhyay has made significant contributions to the global dialogue on disability rights and assistive technology. As a member of the executive committee of the World Disability & Rehabilitation Professional’s Association (WDRPA), he represents India, sharing his insights and expertise to shape global perspectives on disability and rehabilitation. Under Upadhyay’s leadership, i-CReAT is poised to make a substantial impact on the lives of people with disabilities in India. His vision includes fostering a collaborative environment where innovative, user-driven solutions can be developed and implemented to enhance accessibility and functionality.
For his innovations, he has obtained patents in the field of Assistive Technology. His patents focus on innovative devices and solutions designed to improve the mobility and independence of people with disabilities. These include specialized assistive devices that cater to the unique needs of individuals with spinal injuries and other mobility challenges.
Upadhyay has contributed significantly to the field of Assistive Technology and Accessibility research. His publications include articles on the provision of mobility technology in less-resourced settings, assistive technology for individuals with spinal injuries, and the development of universal design in product development. He has also written about aquatic exercise for children with cerebral palsy and the integration of assistive technologies in rehabilitation settings. His work is published in various journals, including Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America and Spinal Cord, RESNA and IEEE.
Upadhyay’s work has been recognized by numerous awards, including Rotary Innovative Technology Professional Award (2008), Ford Foundation International Fellowship Award (2003) to learn Assistive Technology at UIC, Chicago; State Level Award (2002) for the best innovator, Gold Medal, Abilympics (2001 and 2002) for designing user friendly systems. Recently he won Universal Design Award 2013/2019 given by NCPEDP and Mphasis in the area of Assistive Technology.

Advisory Board Members

Dr. H. S. Chhabra

Dr. Chhabra is Chief of Spine and Rehabilitation Centre at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, New Delhi, India. Formerly, he was associated with Indian Spinal Injuries Centre as Chief of Spine Services and Medical Director. He is the President of Associations of Spine Surgeons of India and Immediate Past President of International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS). His expertise is grounded by more than 25 years of clinical and academic experience as an orthopedic surgeon. As Chairperson of Prevention Committee of International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS), he has taken various initiatives amongst which are SCI Day on 05th September and ISCoS Spinal Injury Database (IDAPP).

Dr. Chhabra has brought up many research projects with significant impact in management of spinal cord injuries. Recently, he helped the ISCoS in publishing a textbook on ‘Comprehensive Management of Spinal Cord Injuries’ as Editor in Chief. He had also helped develop elearnSCI.org, an online learning web based portal for health professionals on Comprehensive Management of Spinal Cord Injuries as Chief Editor & Coordinator as well as Project Manager (Educational resource development) of the web resource. He is Peer reviewer at various journals. Dr Chhabra has 123 publications and 24 papers & full-length chapters in the leading textbooks to his credit. Journal publications have been in various prestigious peer reviewed journals like Spinal Cord, Rheumatology, Engineering in Medicine and Biology Magazine and European Spine Journal. He is a reviewer for Spinal Cord, Journal of Translational Medicine, Journal of Neurosurgery, Indian Journal of Orthopedics, Journal of Orthopedic Research, Journal of Rehabilitation Council of India, Locomotor & Associated Disabilities Section, Polish Journal of Rehabilitation Research, Indian Journal of Medical Research, Clinical Epidemiology, Journal of Clinical Orthopedics and Trauma, Journal of Sports Sciences.

In the last few years, Dr Chhabra has been a recipient of some of the major prestigious awards. In 2013, XXIII National Excellency Award by TP Jhunjhunwala Foundation in the field of Medicine and ISCoS Society Medal Award for 2013- This Medal is awarded each year to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the Prevention or Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury or to research related to spinal cord injury. Besides these he was awarded India News National Health Award in 2018 for excellence in spine and orthopaedics along with ASCoN Star award by Asian Spinal Cord Network. He has also been honored with ASSI Research Awards for five consecutive years from 2013 to 2017 and again in 2019.

Dr. Loren O’ Connor

Dr O’Connor is a sought-after international speaker and consultant. He frequently speaks at conferences in the US and abroad in the areas of disability rights, advocacy, assistive technology, crisis response, and establishing Offices of Accessible Education in developing countries. Dr. O’Connor has consulted, presented and provided professional trainings in South Korea, Saudi Arabia, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE, Oman, Singapore and other countries.

Prof. Thierry Kolpin

Dr. Thierry Kolpin received his doctorate from Stanford University, California, with an emphasis in school and community-based counseling psychology. As an Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts Global, he is the Department Chair for the Professional School Counseling and Psychology programs. He also consults for universities across the globe to assist in the development of mental health and disability support. Dr. Kolpin presents at international conferences on topics including Trauma, Disabilities, Mindfulness, Crisis Prevention and Response, TBI, Depression, and Anxiety.

Prof. Gaurav Raheja

Prof. Dr. Gaurav Raheja is a Professor of Architecture and Inclusive Mobility and a Co-coordinator of the Design Innovation Centre (DIC) at IIT Roorkee. His research focuses on social sustainability and human-centric approaches in urban environments. He founded the Laboratory of Inclusive Design (LID) to advance interdisciplinary and cross-cultural research towards inclusive urban environments. He is a well-known expert on Universal Design and Accessibility Planning whose research focuses on the inclusion of persons with disabilities, children, gender, ageing and social inequity paradigms in urban futures and everyday lives.

He is also an advisor to India’s Government where he advises several ministries and the Prime Minister’s Office on accessibility audit projects. He is a DAAD Research Ambassador and has been a visiting researcher to the Technical University (TU) Berlin, TU Darmstadt, TU Dresden and the University of Duisburg, Essen, Germany. 

Prof. Dinesh Kalyanasundaram

Prof. Dinesh is passionate about creating medical devices. He is a mechanical engineer by education (Bachelors: College of Engineering, Guindy; Masters: IIT Delhi; PhD: Iowa State University; Post-doctoral research: University of Washington, Seattle; Biomedical consultant: L&T) and strongly believes in innovation and inter-disciplinary research as a means to achieve innovation. Areas of Interest: Micromachining of materials, Product Design, Solid Mechanics (Specific Areas) DNA based diagnostics, lab-on-chip device design, Orthopedics, Orthodontics, Surface modification, laser machining.

Expert Committee Members

Mr. Shivjeet Singh Raghaw

Shivjeet Singh Raghaw’s journey is one of resilience, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the rehabilitation and empowerment of people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). With over 25 years of professional dedication, Shivjeet has become a respected leader and Director at Kusum Spine & Neuro Rehabilitation Centre (KSNR), where his knowledge, empathy, and practical insights have enriched countless lives. As a rehabilitated spinal cord injury survivor himself, Shivjeet’s personal experience fuels his professional resolve, making him a unique asset to every initiative he undertakes.

His extensive contributions include advising and counseling at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC), involvement in global organizations like the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS) and Asia Spinal Cord Network (ASCoN) and serving as Vice President of The Spinal Foundation. Recognized for his specialized insights in peer counseling and accessibility audits, Shivjeet has consulted for various national and international projects, including UN-ESCAP’s barrier-free zones and WHO’s Rehabilitation 2030. His resourcefulness in addressing challenges faced by persons with disabilities has led to his roles as a panelist, coordinator, and speaker at numerous conferences and workshops.

Shivjeet’s achievements are a testament to his commitment to creating inclusive environments and supporting SCI individuals in leading fulfilling lives. His advocacy, educational contributions, and leadership in the field continue to inspire and uplift communities worldwide, underscoring the value of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.

Mr. Jashwant Singh

Mr. Jashwant Singh is a seasoned professional with nearly 15 years of experience across various government organizations in the fields of science and technology. Serving as an Inspector and Fingerprint Expert at the National Crime Record Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, he brings extensive expertise in forensic science. He is well-versed in the concepts and applications of ISO-17025 and NABL standards. His background as a biotechnologist and a national-level professional player underscores his diverse skill set and dedication to excellence.

Dr. Rajdhir Lal Ranjan

Dr. Randhir Lal Ranjan, a distinguished Gold Medalist with over 20 years of expertise in neuro and orthopedic rehabilitation, stands at the forefront of his field. His extensive academic journey, marked by a Ph.D. in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, alongside advanced qualifications such as M.O.T. and B.O.T., reflects his commitment to deepening his knowledge and skills. A certified practitioner in dry needling, ergonomics, and wheelchair instruction (both basic and advanced), Dr. Ranjan integrates these specialties into a comprehensive therapeutic approach. His dedication to improving patient outcomes, coupled with his hands-on experience, makes him a sought-after expert in his domain, empowering patients toward recovery and enhanced mobility with precision and care.

Assistive Technology Consultant

Devakshi Dhawan

Devakshi Dhawan is an accomplished leader in sustainable development and public health, known for founding Hope Collective, a pioneering organization focused on health equity and community empowerment. Her career began with an internship at the United Nations in Manila, Philippines, where she gained firsthand experience in global health dynamics. She later advanced to positions at the Public Health Foundation of India, first as a trainee and then as an associate in the Division of Affordable Health Technologies, where she contributed to impactful health solutions.
Devakshi also served as a Scientist and Young Investigator at the Society for Applied Studies, where she furthered research in accessible healthcare. With a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development Practice from TERI University and a Bachelor of Commerce from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management and Higher Studies, she combines a strong academic foundation with extensive field experience. Her work continues to reflect a commitment to sustainable, inclusive health initiatives that make a lasting difference.

Research Associates

Indrajeet Singh

Indrajeet, a passionate inventor and designer, is dedicated to creating large-scale societal impacts. With a B.Arch. from the School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, and currently pursuing a Master of Design in Product Design at Delhi Technological University, he is captivated by Assistive Technology and Sustainability Design. These fields drive his desire to explore how science and technology can enhance product performance while maintaining social and environmental responsibility. Indrajeet unique blend of creativity and scientific rigor allows him to engage deeply with both the aesthetic and functional aspects of design. His philosophy treats products as integrated organisms, drawing inspiration from nature in their aesthetics, structure, and services, a concept he is eager to further explore.

Judah Joel

Judah Joel is a multidisciplinary designer with a strong foundation in both technology and design. Holding a B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering from NIT Nagaland and an M.Des. in Lifestyle & Accessories Design from Delhi Technological University, Joel has developed a unique blend of technical and creative skills. His approach centers on research-led, human-centered design, aiming to create seamless experiences across digital and tangible products. With hands-on experience as a Design Intern and Lead, Joel has contributed to various residential and public projects, handling layout design, CAD drafting, and 3D rendering. He led the design and visual identity for Atelier, the official magazine of NIT Nagaland, showcasing his skills in Adobe Creative Suite and Affinity Publisher. Joel is skilled in several design and development tools, including AutoCAD, Sketch-Up, and programming languages like C++ and Java. His career reflects a commitment to pushing the boundaries of design, always focusing on creating impactful user experiences.

Ayush Manglik

Ayush Manglik is a passionate and driven individual currently pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science from GLA University, Mathura. With a strong inclination towards innovation, design, and Full Stack Web Development, he is dedicated to creating impactful and creative solutions that leverage technology for real-world applications.
Throughout his academic journey, Ayush has actively engaged in projects that showcase his technical expertise, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills. As the team leader for Tronics Cyber Security Solutions, he collaborated with peers to develop a robust cybersecurity platform, demonstrating his ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Additionally, his solo projects, such as ChingPang AI, a personal assistant, highlight his innovative mindset and commitment to building user-centric solutions.
Beyond his technical interests, Ayush is deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology and business. He aspires to develop innovative technologies that not only address critical challenges but also contribute to societal progress. To further his expertise, he plans to pursue a Master’s degree in either Technology or Business Administration, equipping himself with the strategic knowledge and skills needed to excel in his field.
With a long-term vision of leveraging technology to create a positive impact, Ayush is committed to continuous learning and professional growth. He looks forward to advancing his education and taking meaningful steps toward achieving his aspirations.