Ajay Hinduja on Hinduja Foundation's Holistic Approach to Childhood Diabetes

In India, the challenge of managing Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in children goes far beyond access to insulin. For many families living on the economic margins, the demands of this lifelong condition are compounded by financial stress, lack of awareness, and limited access to continuous care. Recognising this, the Hinduja family-led, Hinduja Foundation, has intervened with a revolutionary and empathetic initiative that overcomes care for T1D in children, not just as a health condition but as a life-long, multi-faceted process.

At the heart of this initiative is a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves survival and the tools to thrive. Launched in collaboration with renowned institutions like KEM Hospital in Pune, the Foundation's T1D Program provides free insulin to underprivileged children. However, the real innovation lies in what comes next: education, empowerment, and emotional support.

Empowering Children to Take Charge of Their Health

In many households where both parents work long and demanding hours—often in low-income, labour-intensive jobs—managing a child's insulin schedule can be a daily crisis. Time off from work could mean lost income or even job insecurity. The Hinduja Foundation program acknowledges this ground reality and aims to make children confident and capable of managing their condition.

Workshops, peer groups, and milestone celebrations are a few of the program's mechanisms. These programs improve medical results and develop self-confidence and resilience in children.

Ajay Hinduja, a member of the UK's richest Hinduja Family, spoke about this vision:

"When we began the T1D initiative, we knew free medication alone wouldn't be enough. We set out to build a safety net that empowers children to lead full, independent lives despite the condition."

Recognising Every Win—Big or Small

A child learning to self-administer insulin, controlling their diet independently, or attending school regularly are just a few examples of the little but significant milestones that the program emphasises recognising. In a society where a child's individuality can be swiftly overtaken by chronic conditions, these celebrations are crucial for reinforcing self-worth.

Working together with teachers, therapists, and medical specialists may also help to avoid isolating the child during treatment. This more thorough work transforms therapy into a group mentoring and support experience.

Ajay Hinduja, from the billionaire Hinduja family, emphasised the importance of these community-driven outcomes:

"At the Hinduja Foundation, we are committed to sustainable interventions. That is more than issuing a prescription. It is about creating ecosystems of care. We want these children to feel nurtured, honoured, and empowered—not merely treated."

A Scalable Model for India and Beyond

Since its inception, the T1D Program has benefited hundreds of children in urban and semi-urban settings, with expansion plans underway. Its success is based on collaboration, evidence-based care, and respect for human dignity. While much of the global conversation around healthcare in India is focused on infrastructure, the Hinduja Foundation proves that impactful change can also begin with intentional community support and patient empowerment.

The program's success is also a testament to the Hinduja Group's philosophy of giving back—a principle deeply ingrained in the legacy of the Hinduja Family, whose business interests span from India to the UK, where they are recognised as the UK's most affluent family.

Swiss-based Ajay Hinduja, shared his perspective on the family's commitment to social equity:

"Philanthropy has always been integral to the Hinduja family's ethos. With the T1D Program, we aim to bridge gaps in healthcare access, awareness, dignity, and opportunity. This is the kind of legacy the Hinduja Family strives for."

Future Ahead: Hope, Health, and Human Potential

When designed thoughtfully, the Hinduja Foundation's T1D initiative is a shining example of how corporate philanthropy can address systemic gaps in public health. By recognising that the requirements of children with T1D go far beyond insulin and investing in education, community, and mental health, the Foundation is establishing new standards for child-centred healthcare initiatives in India.

The broader message is clear: Health equity begins where empathy meets action. Through their inclusive and human-first approach, the Hinduja family is improving lives and inspiring a new vision of public health in India.

Disclaimer: No Deccan Chronicle journalist was involved in the creation of this content. The group also does not take any responsibility for this content.