Neha Solanki, a mother from Pali, refused to accept defeat when a school denied admission to her son due to his inability to sit independently. Instead, she designed an adaptive chair for children with cerebral palsy, a solution that has garnered her national acclaim. President Droupadi Murmu will honor Neha with the Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026 by NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission on July 31.
Neha’s journey began in 2023 when she faced challenges seeking admission for her son, Duranjay, who has cerebral palsy. Determined to address the lack of suitable seating arrangements for children with special needs, Neha embarked on a mission to create a solution that could benefit numerous children across India. Her specially designed chair offers complete body support for children aged 3 to 12 with cerebral palsy, enabling them to engage in various activities comfortably and safely.
Recognizing the social impact of her innovation, NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission selected Neha Solanki as one of 26 grassroots innovators for the prestigious Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026. Through her determination and empathy, Neha has shown that personal adversity can be transformed into solutions that enhance lives and ensure inclusive education for all children.
