Ishanya India Foundation
Ishanya — meaning North-East, symbolising education and prosperity — is one of Bangalore's few centres that takes individuals from childhood through to employment readiness, with a neurodiverse advisory board guiding the way.
Established in 2015, Ishanya India Foundation (IIF) is a centre for individuals with special needs working towards diversity, equity, and inclusion. Serves individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, Learning Disability, Down Syndrome, and ADHD from age 6 through adulthood. Programmes include Sameti (pre-academic), Sattva (foundational skills), Spruha (skill development), Siddhi (1:1 remedial), Shaale (NIOS tutoring), and Sutantra (digital literacy). Also runs Samarthya capacity building, Peer Support Groups, and Samvad interactive sessions. Uses an eclectic approach with curricula tailored to individual needs. Has a neurodiverse advisory board including individuals with lived experience.
Services
How this entry was verified
Founded by Swathi Vellal Raghunandan (Master's in Special Educational Needs, Univ. of Northampton; Master's in Clinical Psychology, Christ University). Guidestar India Transparency certified. Neurodiverse advisory board. Karnataka Trust Registration Act registered.
Good to know
Located in JP Nagar near Ragigudda Temple. Open 9 AM – 6 PM. Contact info@ishanyaindia.org. Employment readiness and placement training available for 18+ students.
More vocational & adult support
- Akshadhaa FoundationCommunity submission. Akshadhaa Foundation (est. 2012) takes a lifecycle approach — from early intervention and special education through to vocational training and supported employment. Founded by Sumana Dutta with a group of parents. Vocational programmes include job readiness (IT and non-IT), handmade paper making, and bakery. They also run an NIOS centre for open schooling. In 2024, SAP Labs India partnered with them to launch a digital learning programme for neurodivergent individuals. The foundation reports serving approximately 22,000 beneficiaries over its history, though this figure could not be independently verified.
- ALFAA — Assisted Living for Autistic AdultsCreates quality living conditions and work/leisure opportunities for adults with autism. One of very few organisations in Bangalore focused specifically on adult autism support and assisted living.
- Amogh CentreCommunity submission. Amogh Trust provides inclusive education and skill development for neurodiverse adults (18+) with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their programmes include Pragati (work-from-home livelihood opportunities), Ananya (sheltered product-making workshop), and Dreamweaves (a weaving centre). Currently supports around 34 adults with intellectual disabilities in productive, dignified work. Located on Hosa Road near Electronic City.
- Amogh TrustSupports adults (18+) with special needs. Operates a skilling and livelihood centre and sheltered workspace. Programmes include Project Deeksha, Pragati Work-Centre, and Sattva Cafe (a social enterprise).