Mysuru: As part of World Autism Awareness Month, a walkathon titled ‘Walk of Hope’ was organised by the Devdan Foundation Learning Centre, in collaboration with PADHA Trust, in city yesterday to promote acceptance of autism by the society.

The 3-km walkathon commenced from Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple premises at the Palace North Gate and concluded at the Oval Grounds. The event evoked a good response from the public.

District Disability Welfare Officer Shankar Gowda Patil flagged off the event. He emphasised the importance of early diagnosis of autism and the imperatives of creating greater awareness about it. He said that autism was one of the 21 recognised disabilities. If identified early, timely support and intervention can be provided. The Government is committed to extending all necessary assistance in this regard, he added.

Special Educator Saswati Singh and Psychiatrist Dr. Krishna too spoke on the occasion.

Devdan Foundation Chairperson Dhanya Ponnamma Uthappa, Executive Manager Uthappa Ballachanda & Director Kotera Dilip Devaiah, Sangeetha of PADHA Trust,  Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr. A. Sonia Mandappa, Speech Language Pathologist & Audiologist Irfana Husen, Fashion Designer Jayanthi Ballal, Rtn. Kishore Bidappa and others took part.