BHARAT RATNA DR. A.P.J. ABDUL KALAM DIVYANG MULANCHE BALGRUH
MANKHURD (ESTD. 1941)
Total Capacity
350
Age Group
6- life long care
Children Cared
1,900
* Data since 2001
Established in 1941, this is India’s first and Asia’s largest residential care home for children with Intellectual Disabilities. Renamed in 2024 to honor Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the home provides lifelong care, education, and rehabilitation for orphaned and abandoned children with special needs. Criteria for admission in the institute is that the child must be an Intellectually Disabled orphan under the age of 18, with entry permitted only by Child Welfare Committee order.
Dedicated Sections for Boys and Girls
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Boys' Section: 117 children
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Girls' Section: 156 children
The girls' section, Pitruvatsalya, was inaugurated by Bharat Ratna Mother Teresa in 1977, creating a safe and compassionate space for girls with intellectual disabilities. Today, this legacy continues with care grounded in empathy, dignity, and the belief that every child deserves a life of joy and possibility.
The home offers a nurturing environment where children receive individual attention, tailored education, therapeutic support, and life-skills training. Many children spend their entire lives here, finding not just care but community and dignity.
Our Services
Education & Vocational Training
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Customized Education: Programs focus on basic literacy, communication, and life skills, adapted to individual capacities.
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Vocational Training: Children learn tailoring, carpentry, housekeeping, and handicrafts, building confidence and enhancing self-reliance.
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Therapy & Counselling: Speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and regular counselling sessions promote holistic development.
Medical & Residential Care
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On-site 10-bed Hospital: Round-the-clock medical care is provided by trained doctors and caregivers.
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Referral Network: Serious medical cases are referred to hospitals like Shatabdi, KEM, LTMG, and JJ.
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Gender-Segregated Dormitories: Safe, clean, and supportive living spaces with trained staff assisting with daily care needs.
Emotional Well-being & Recreation
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Celebrations: Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas are celebrated with love and community spirit.
Picnics & Outings: Regular excursions and events provide new experiences and moments of joy. -
Creative Expression: Art, music, and games are integrated into daily life to encourage self-expression and social bonding.