Paranjape Schemes, a leading real estate developer in Maharashtra, has officially launched India’s first homes for differently-abled individuals through the ‘Special Projects Division’ named ‘Swaniketan’. The project is located in Bhugaon, Pune, within the Forest Trails Township, and aims to provide a safe, comfortable and dignified living environment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, and Down syndrome.
Swaniketan: A Pioneering Venture in Inclusive Living
‘Swaniketan’ is a result of the collaboration between Paranjape Schemes and ‘Tarangan’, an association formed by members of Forum for Autism and Saad, who will look after the management and operations of the project. The project is designed to cater to the specific needs and challenges faced by differently-abled individuals and their parents, who often worry about their child’s future well-being and financial security.
The project offers 240 apartments with 2 and 3 BHK options, spread across two towers of 12 floors each. The project is estimated to cost Rs 300 crore and the flats are priced at Rs 6,250 per sq ft . The project also includes various facilities such as vocational and therapy centres, daycare services, hostels, sensory gardens, hydrotherapy facilities, and healthcare facilities.
Key Features of Swaniketan
Some of the key features of Swaniketan that make it a unique and innovative initiative are:
- Carefully designed facilities: The rooms are specially designed for differently-abled individuals, with features such as anti-skid flooring, grab bars, emergency alarms, and wheelchair accessibility. The project also has sensory gardens that stimulate the senses of touch, smell, sight, and sound. The hydrotherapy facilities help in improving muscle strength, balance, and coordination. The daycare centres and hostels provide vocational training and life skills development for young adults.
- Expert management: Paranjape Schemes has partnered with two daycare centres, Forum for Autism and Saad, to form Tarangan, an association that will ensure that the community receives expert care and attention. Tarangan will also organise various activities and events for the residents, such as music therapy, yoga sessions, art workshops, and sports tournaments.
- Financial planning: Recognising the long-term financial concerns that parents often face, the project allows them to create trusts for their children, ensuring their welfare even after the parent’s demise. Proceeds from the possible sale of Swaniketan housing units can contribute to these trusts.
- Inclusive community: Swaniketan fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents, who share similar experiences and challenges. The project creates a supportive network of peers and mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement. The project also promotes social inclusion and awareness by inviting volunteers and visitors from different walks of life to interact with the residents.
Swaniketan: A Pathbreaking Step Towards Empowering Differently Abled Individuals
Swaniketan is not just a housing project, but a holistic support system that aims to empower differently-abled individuals and their parents. By providing a safe, comfortable, and dignified living environment, Swaniketan enables them to lead independent and fulfilling lives. By offering various facilities and services that address their developmental, medical, and social needs, Swaniketan enhances their well-being and quality of life. By creating a trust mechanism that ensures their financial security, Swaniketan alleviates their anxiety and uncertainty about the future.
Swaniketan is a testament to Paranjape Schemes’ vision of creating inclusive and compassionate communities that celebrate diversity and respect individuality. Swaniketan is a milestone in India’s real estate sector that sets a new benchmark for social responsibility and innovation.