SaralX is not a usual startup. Its mission is something different. Its mission is to redefine accessibility for people with disabilities (PwDs). Its focus is to make digital platforms inclusive for all.
The birth of SaralX too is unusual. Founder Akashdeep lost his eyesight due to retinitis pigmentosa. He found limited access to online information during his studies. However, he pursued a Master’s degree in Optical Fibre Communication at IIT Delhi and eventually transitioned to Assistive Technology. He established Office of Accessible Education (OAE) at IIT Delhi to cater the needs of students with disabilities.
Based on his interactions with individuals from diverse disability backgrounds, he launched SaralX in July 2023 to ensure that digital platforms cater to the needs of PwDs, spanning visual impairments, locomotor issues, deafness and neurological conditions as well.
The vision of his startup encompasses a world where planning a holiday, watching a movie or accessing essential services online is seamless for the PwDs. He initially faced challenges in getting corporate support for accessibility initiatives, but later made some significant strides and managed securing prominent clients like MakeMyTrip and Ashoka University. SaralX is also supported by a grant from YouthCoLab.
SaralX operates with eight members in a team and all of them strive to bridge the accessibility gap through technological innovations. However, his unusual journey towards inclusivity remains arduous. As of now, only a fraction of companies have prioritized accessibility in their digital offerings.
The efforts of Akashdeep extend beyond corporate engagements as SaralX collaborates with universities to ensure that admission processes and study materials are accessible to PwDs. His startup is also paving the path for a more inclusive digital landscape.
