Sruthitharangam Cochlear Implantation Scheme(State level) is launched by Govt of Kerala in association with KSSM(Social Security Mission), Dept of Social Justice. Under this initiative, free cochlear implant surgery of the deaf children under 0-5 years belonging to economically weaker sections is organized.
The scheme emphasizes early identification and intervention, ideally within six months of age, to ensure the holistic development of children with hearing loss. The cochlear implant is a proven medical treatment for profound hearing loss, and this scheme ensures access to such treatment for children from families with an annual income below ₹2 lakhs.
The scheme is implemented through government and selected empaneled private hospitals across Kerala.
Benefits
- Free cochlear implantation surgery for eligible hearing-impaired children.
- Post-surgical support through Auditory Verbal Habilitation (AVH).
- The selection of children for surgery is conducted by Regional and State-level technical committees.
Hospitals Covered Under the Scheme
Cochlear implantation under the Sruthitharangam Scheme is available at the following empaneled hospitals:
Government Hospitals
- Govt. Medical College Hospital, Trivandrum
- Govt. Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode
- Govt. Medical College Hospital, Kottayam
Private Hospitals
- KIMS Hospital, Trivandrum
- Medical Trust Hospital, Kochi
- Dr. Noushad’s ENT Institute and Research Centre, Ernakulam
- West Fort Hi-Tech Hospital, Thrissur
- Dr. Manoj’s ENT Super Speciality Institute & Research Centre, Kozhikode
- MIMS Hospital, Kozhikode
- ASCENT ENT Hospital, Perinthalmanna
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Kerala.
- The child must be diagnosed as hearing-impaired.
- The child should be aged between 0-3 years.
- Note: The Screening Committee may make exceptions for children aged 3-5 years on a case-by-case basis if a high success rate is expected or other compelling technical reasons exist.
- The annual family income should be below ₹2 lakh.
Application Process
Offline Mode
- Obtain the Application Form
- Visit the Kerala Social Security Mission (KSSM) Office or download it from the official website.
- Fill Out the Form
- Provide the child’s personal details and medical information.
- Attach all necessary documents (see list below).
- Submit the Application
- The duly filled form and required documents should be sent to:Executive Director,
Kerala Social Security Mission,
Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – 695012
Phone No: 0471 2341200
- The duly filled form and required documents should be sent to:Executive Director,
Required Documents
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.)
- Proof of Child’s Age (Birth Certificate, Aadhaar, etc.)
- Income Certificate
- Copy of BPL Card (if applicable)
- Copy of Ration Card (if applicable)
- Residence Certificate (Kerala State Proof)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Child’s Medical Reports (certifying hearing impairment)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- The Sruthitharangam Scheme?
The Kerala government’s Sruthitharangam Scheme provides free cochlear implantation surgery to economically disadvantaged hearing-impaired youngsters. - The scheme’s goal?
The program detects and treats hearing impairment in children early on to promote speech and language development. - The scheme’s benefits?
Free cochlear implantation and AVH assistance are provided to eligible youngsters.
Who may get plan benefits?
Children aged 0-3 with severe hearing loss from households earning less than ₹2 lakh yearly. Children under 5 may be exempt. - Can all hearing-impaired kids benefit?
No, only eligible low-income children may benefit. - Does this program exclusively help deaf people?
Yes, the program targets hearing-impaired youngsters. - What is the benefit income requirement?
The household must have an annual income below ₹2 lakh to qualify. - Is this plan for Kerala citizens only?
The plan is for Kerala citizens exclusively. - How old may apply for this scheme?
Eligible are 0-3 year olds. Exceptions may be made by the Screening Committee for children under 5. - Can hearing-impaired children over 3 use the scheme?
If surgery is likely to succeed, the committee may recommend it for children under 5. - Are only government hospitals using the scheme?
It covers government and empaneled private hospitals. - Candidates may receive the application form where?
Get the form at the Kerala Social Security Mission (KSSM) office or the internet. - How may applicants profit from the scheme?
Fill up the application form, attach papers, and send it to the Kerala Social Security Mission Office.
Sources & References