Classmate's struggle inspires Akhilesh to invent India's first hearing aid

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While studying in Class 3, Akhilesh Raveendran from Punalur saw the struggles of his hearing-impaired classmate. This experience inspired him, and years later, he used his technological skills to create a hearing aid. His invention has been recognized as India’s first of its kind.

After completing his 10th grade, Akhilesh enrolled in a polytechnic in Nagarcoil, but the thought of his classmate remained on his mind. Realizing that his path was not in regular studies, he left his academic pursuits halfway and shifted his focus to research for the differently-abled. With support from the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE), he received a grant to pursue his goal.

A grant of Rs 55 lakh was awarded for the invention. The device will be available in the market within eight months, and Amararaja Design Alpha, based in Infopark, is manufacturing the device. A patent has been secured. Akhilesh is the Principal Investigator at KSCSTE. Those who rely on cochlear implants to regain hearing must undergo surgery, which is costly and invasive. Akhilesh’s device is designed to be affordable, with reduced manufacturing costs, and can be used by people of all ages.

Akhilesh’s father, Raveendran, is a traditional healer, and his mother is Usha. His brother's name is Aneesh.

Why is this a source of pride for India?

• Indian companies are currently manufacturing hearing aids using outdated American technology with expired patents. Even the most advanced hearing aids are still being imported from the US and Germany.
• India will only be able to manufacture such devices domestically after the patent expiry in 2060 unless its own technology is developed. This is where Akhilesh has made a significant contribution.

Electromagnetic Gun Conduction (EMG Bone Conduction): This is the technology used in the prototype of the device, and no company in India currently uses this technology.

The device resembles a Bluetooth neckband and can be worn around the neck. When connected to a phone via Bluetooth, it functions as a headset, which can be used by those with hearing ability. Unlike other hearing aids, Akhilesh’s device can identify the direction from which the sound is coming.

Affordable Pricing: The first one lakh customers will receive the device for ₹30,000. Afterward, if government subsidies are provided, it will be available to scheduled caste and tribe communities at a significantly reduced price.

“We will offer licenses both within India and abroad. We expect more investors for further development,” says Akhilesh Raveendran.