‘Vois’ app for Goa’s people with special needs launched

Panaji: In a first, the disability rights association of Goa (DRAG) has launched a smartphone app that caters to interests of people with special needs. Besides offering a wide range of reading material such as science, social issues and entertainment, the app also aims at conducting a survey of the disabled people of Goa where users can register themselves.

Titled, 'Vois', the app was launched recently by Sakhali MLA Pramod Sawant. "This app will benefit disabled people by connecting them through a singular system. To ensure this connection is not broken, I will appeal to the government to provide mobile phones to the disabled so that they can access the app," Sawant said.

Developed by Goa-based start-up, Androcid, the Vois app has received a little over 20 downloads, so far. The app also allows users to voice grievances and issues that they intend to highlight to NGOs."We are trying to provide a platform to NGOs in Goa so that they can reach out to the disabled, who have not been registered with NGOs. Given the current scenario, having the technological advantage of an app can help bridge that gap," said Sangeeta Naik who conceptualized the app.

Speaking about the benefits, Jerry D'Souza, who is living with muscular dystrophy said that the app should connect to the government's social schemes offered by the department of social welfare.