Overview
The press release dated 26 June 2026 announces the achievements of “Rehab on Wheels” (RoW), a corporate‑social‑responsibility (CSR) programme jointly launched by the Association of People with Disability (APD) and ABB India in November 2022. The initiative aims to bridge gaps in access, affordability and awareness of rehabilitation services for underserved rural and peri‑urban communities in Karnataka, India.
Key Performance Metrics (FY 2022‑26)
During the four‑year financial period, RoW delivered over 27,000 rehabilitation interventions, surpassing its annual targets. The programme also conducted more than 6,000 awareness and sensitisation activities, performed over 300 assistive‑device assessments and distributions, and organised 12 medical camps, exceeding the planned number of camps. Early identification and intervention were strengthened through collaboration with ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers and other local stakeholders.
Leadership Commentary
GNV Subba Rao, Global Head of Operations – Center Automation & Head of ABB Innovation Center, India, stated that over the past three years RoW has become a critical last‑mile intervention, noting tangible outcomes such as improved mobility, reduced pain and stronger community participation, as well as enhanced referral systems and local capacity building. Dr. N.S. Senthil Kumar, President of APD Futures, highlighted the model’s scalability and its potential to be replicated in additional underserved communities.
Expansion and Corporate Interest
What began as a single mobile rehabilitation unit has scaled to a fleet of three buses. The programme’s success has attracted interest from several other corporates seeking to support the RoW model, underscoring its viability as an inclusive, community‑based rehabilitation solution.
About the Association of People with Disability (APD)
APD, a non‑profit founded in 1959 by the late Ms N. S. Hema, has impacted over 600,000 people with disability from underprivileged backgrounds. Its programmes address 18 of the 21 disabilities listed in the RPWD Act 2016. APD’s team comprises more than 230 members, with 45 % women and 30 % persons with disabilities. Annually, APD reaches over 60,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries. The organisation is governed by a professional board of governors and trustees and holds accreditations from TISS, Credibility Alliance, RCI and NIPMAN Foundation.
About ABB India
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, employing roughly 105,000 people worldwide and over 8,000 in India across manufacturing, R&D, design and business services. ABB has been present in India for more than a century and has been manufacturing locally for over 75 years. The company focuses on delivering energy‑efficient, digitalised solutions to accelerate industrial transformation and support India’s net‑zero journey.
Contact and Source
The release is issued by APD and was distributed through Newsvoir on 26 June 2026.