Cochlear Implant Switch ON Programme

On 19-06-2026, the Switch-On Ceremony was conducted for a child who had undergone Cochlear Implant Surgery at the Department of ENT, BLDE Hospital.

The programme was attended by Dr. Arun Inamdar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of BLDE (Deemed to be University); Dr. Tejaswini Vallabh, Principal; Dr. Sanjeev Bentur, Chief Hospital Superintendent; Dr. Vijay Kumar Kalyanappagol, Senior Vice Principal; Dr. Latha Devi, Cochlear Implant Coordinator; and Dr. Ravindra Karadi, Head of the Department of ENT.

Speaking at the programme held in the Department of ENT at BLDE Hospital, the Vice Chancellor inaugurated the Switch-On Process, during which the cochlear implant software was activated for children suffering from congenital hearing loss, enabling them to hear sounds for the first time.

The cost of cochlear implant surgery generally ranges from ₹7.50 lakh to ₹15 lakh. However, this facility is available under various Government schemes, making the treatment accessible to eligible patients. BLDE Hospital is fully equipped with all the necessary facilities to perform cochlear implant surgeries.

Dr. Latha Devi explained the details of the cochlear implant surgery. She stated that after approximately two years of auditory-verbal therapy and speech rehabilitation, the child can develop hearing and speech abilities comparable to those of other children, enabling them to pursue regular school and college education and excel in any field.

The parents of the child expressed their happiness and gratitude, saying, “Our child’s life has been filled with new hope because of this hospital. Our hardships have come to an end, and we now believe our child will grow up like every other child. We sincerely thank everyone who made this possible.” They also conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to the Vice Chancellor.

The Vice Chancellor expressed his happiness over the successful completion of the Switch-On programme and appreciated the dedication, guidance, cooperation, and commitment of the doctors, which made this achievement possible. He also congratulated the hospital staff for their valuable contribution.

Principal Dr. Tejaswini Vallabh emphasized the importance of creating awareness among the general public about the availability and benefits of cochlear implant surgery. She stated that BLDE Hospital plans to conduct more such surgeries and awareness programmes in the future.

The programme was held in the Speech and Hearing Department of the hospital. Following the activation of the cochlear implant in the one-and-a-half-year-old child, the child responded with a smile upon hearing sounds for the first time. The switch-on process was carried out by Mr. Santosh and Ms. Rakshita, Speech and Hearing Specialists.