The Down Syndrome Federation of India (DSFI) organized a Walkathon in Vellore on October 12, 2025, as part of the Down Syndrome Awareness Month celebrations. The event aimed to spread awareness and promote inclusion for individuals with Down Syndrome within the larger community.

The DSFI Walkathon witnessed the participation of nearly 500 people, including self-advocates with Down Syndrome, their families, students from schools and colleges, and members of the general public.

The walkathon was flagged off by Smt. M. Subbulakshmi, IAS, District Collector of Vellore, in the presence of Shri Dhanush Kumar, IPS, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Vellore, and Dr. N. Balaji from Narayani Hospitals. Participants walked around the historic Vellore Fort, showcasing the spirit of unity, confidence, and determination. The event was a powerful reminder that self-advocates with Down Syndrome can achieve anything when given opportunity and encouragement.

Pre-Event Celebration at Vani Vidyalaya

As a prelude to the Walkathon, a special program was organized on October 11 at Vani Vidyalaya School, Vellore.
ASP Shri Dhanush Kumar, IPS, addressed the gathering and encouraged families to continue empowering their children. The highlight of the evening included a sword performance by Dr. Geetha Mathai, a well-known pediatrician, and a Silambam demonstration by students of the Krishnaswamy Silambam Academy, who also introduced self-advocates with Down Syndrome to this traditional martial art form.

The enthusiasm, participation, and community spirit across both days reflected the growing awareness and acceptance for persons with Down Syndrome in Vellore and beyond.

About DSFI

The Down Syndrome Federation of India (DSFI), headquartered in Chennai, works across India to empower individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through its initiatives in health, education, skill training, and advocacy, DSFI strives to build an inclusive society where every person with Down Syndrome is respected and supported to live with dignity.

The Vellore Walkathon marks another milestone in DSFI’s ongoing journey to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion across the country.