New Delhi, 8 Jan . Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) on Thursday launched an outdoor green space, “Umang Vatika” to step up the institution’s efforts for the care of children suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders.
According to health officials, the garden was officially inaugurated by Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Director, VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, making it North India’s first sensory garden within a government institution.
Engaging all five senses, sight, sound, smell, touch, and movement, Umang Vatika offers a nurturing environment for children with brain-linked development conditions, including cerebral palsy, autism, and attention deficit disorders, stated an official document.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Bansal said that the sensory garden reflects the institution’s commitment to a holistic approach in paediatric care, integrating medical treatment with emotional and developmental support.
This initiative was conceptualized by ASTHA, supported through the financial partnership of R Squared Foundation, executed by CPWD and Safdarjung Hospital, with creative design inputs from KILIKILI, the official document noted.
Applauding the launch and sharing photographs of the newly inaugurated garden, the central Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in a social media post: “Breaking barriers in child care! Safdarjung Hospital unveils Umang Vatika, North India’s first government-run sensory garden for children with neurodevelopmental needs. Healing beyond medicine.”
Envisioned as more than a therapeutic facility, the garden is designed as a space for recreation, relaxation, and family interaction, aimed at supporting emotional well-being, cognitive engagement and holistic development.
. MBJ .
