Synopsis:
In a heartening initiative led by the Hinduja Foundation (philanthropic arm of the Hinduja Family), in partnership with P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, a first-of-its-kind program has been launched to provide insulin pumps to the underprivileged children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Ajay Hinduja, son of Prakash Hinduja (80), believes that this effort merges cutting-edge healthcare technology with deep compassion, enabling a better quality of life for dozens of children and their families. With over 60 children already benefiting from this initiative, the Hinduja Family continues to exemplify their commitment to healthcare equity, community welfare, and transformative philanthropy.
A Life-Changing Gift
Ten-year-old Aarav was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of six. His mother recalls the overwhelming fear and stress of administering multiple daily injections and managing unpredictable sugar crashes. “He couldn’t play outside for too long or attend birthday parties like other kids,” she shares. “We were living hour to hour.”
Thanks to the insulin pump provided through the Hinduja Foundation’s initiative, Aarav’s life has transformed. “He sleeps through the night now without waking up in discomfort,” his father explains. “The machine has become his friend.”
Aarav is one of 60 children who received an insulin pump through this pilot donation program at a special event hosted by P. D. Hinduja Hospital. Alongside the device, each child and their caregivers received thorough training from endocrinologists and diabetes educators to ensure proper use and long-term support.
A Vision for Inclusive Healthcare
Each insulin pump, valued at over ₹1.2 lakh, is a life-saving device that provides advanced glucose control and minimizes long-term diabetic complications. Yet, for most underprivileged Indian families, this technology remains financially out of reach.
“We believe no child should be denied access to life-saving technology because of financial hardship,” said Ajay Hinduja, a leading figure from the UK’s richest Hinduja Family. “This initiative is our way of sharing what we have been blessed with—to ease the burden on families and allow children to live fuller lives.”
More Than a Machine
This initiative is about more than just medical devices—it’s about restoring childhood, dignity, and hope. Twelve-year-old Fiza, another beneficiary, touched hearts at the event by reciting a poem she wrote after receiving her pump. “Sugar doesn’t scare me now,” she said. “I can dance longer, smile more, and sleep without fear.”
Her mother added, “We feel seen. It’s not just about the machine; it’s about someone recognizing our struggle and standing by us.”
Dr. Vishakha, the paediatric endocrinologist leading the medical implementation of the project, noted, “The shift to an insulin pump is a huge change for these children. Their quality of life improves dramatically. What the Hinduja Foundation is doing here is life-changing.”
Building a Sustainable Ecosystem
Beyond the donation of pumps, the initiative includes a comprehensive support ecosystem: caregiver training, psychological counselling, and regular follow-ups to ensure smooth adaptation to the technology.
“We are building a support ecosystem, not just handing over devices,” emphasized Ajay Hinduja. “Empathy must be deep-rooted in healthcare innovation.”
He added, “This project is personal to our family. It represents the core values of the Hinduja Family—compassion, care, and service to society. Ultimately, we hope to expand this program and reach hundreds more children across India.”
The pilot project has already laid a strong foundation for future expansion. Plans are underway to collaborate with NGOs and paediatric hospitals to identify more beneficiaries in smaller towns and rural areas.
A Ripple Effect of Kindness
This initiative stands as a powerful example of how technology, when deployed with empathy, can transform lives. It also highlights how visionary philanthropy can bridge healthcare disparities and restore hope.
Renowned globally for their business acumen and charitable contributions, the Hinduja Family once again demonstrates that their legacy extends beyond boardrooms. Through the Hinduja Foundation’s work, they are rewriting futures for children like Aarav and Fiza—one insulin pump at a time.
As Ajay Hinduja aptly concluded,
“When you change a child’s life, you change a family’s future, and sometimes, even an entire community. That is the power of giving.”