About Us
How it Began
AMRIT began as a small residential initiative led by committed citizens who recognised the urgent need for structured support for children with disabilities. The Centre was founded by Mrs. Amirtham Vardaraj, Mrs. Pankajakshi Subbian, Mrs. Shashi Gulati and a group of like-minded philanthropists who envisioned a safe and nurturing space for underprivileged, physically challenged children and adults.
At a time when awareness and structured support systems were minimal, AMRIT was built on a powerful belief — every child has inherent value, untapped potential and the right to live with dignity.
In 1966, the Centre moved to its present premises, gifted by the Government of Tamil Nadu. What began as an act of compassion evolved into a structured institution focused on long-term developmental outcomes.
The institution was guided by strong leadership, with the then District Collector serving as President, Mrs. A. M. Fowler as Secretary, and Mr. C. R. Varadarajulu as Treasurer, supported by dedicated honorary office bearers.
By 2005, AMRIT evolved into a structured and purpose-driven institution — Amrit Centre for Special Education — focused on children with intellectual disabilities.
Amrit Today
Since 2012, AMRIT has been managed by a committed committee led by Dr. T. Balaji (Director – PSG Hospitals and Trustee, Coimbatore Cancer Foundation) as President, Smt. Ranganayaki N as Secretary, and Smt. Gayatri Balaji as Treasurer.
The leadership team is supported by a dedicated committee of 17 members from diverse professional backgrounds.
Amrit Centre for Special Needs is headed by Principal Mrs. Nalini Jayaprakash and a committed Team of Special Educators, Special Teachers, Therapists.
Today, AMRIT functions as a comprehensive multidisciplinary centre offering Early Intervention, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy, alongside structured education and vocational programmes.
Vision
An inclusive society where children with special needs live productive and fulfilling lives.
Mission
To provide structured education, therapy and training that enable children with disabilities to develop measurable skills, confidence and independence.
Core Values
- Respect for every individual
- Accountability through measurable outcomes
- Inclusion in practice
- Commitment to long-term developmental impact
Nalini Jayaprakash
Principal,
Amrit Centre for Special Needs ,
Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore
With over 27 years of experience as a Graduate Science Teacher at the reputed St. Charles Girls High School, Santacruz, Mumbai, she built a strong foundation in education, mentoring, and nurturing young minds.
Relocating to Coimbatore marked a significant turning point in her journey, allowing her to pursue a deep-rooted passion for serving children with special needs and supporting their growth with dignity and care. Motivated by this commitment, she further specialized in special education by completing a B.Ed. in Mental Retardation from Vivekananda University, Coimbatore.
Her work is guided by the belief that every child has unique abilities and deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and participate meaningfully in society. Through patience, empathy, and professional dedication, she has focused on creating a supportive learning environment that nurtures confidence, independence, and life skills among children with diverse abilities.
She currently serves as the Principal of Amrit Centre for Special Needs, one of the oldest and most respected institutions dedicated to children with intellectual and developmental challenges. The centre celebrated its Diamond Jubilee in 2023, marking sixty years of committed service.
With the wholehearted support of the management and staff, her vision is to further strengthen Amrit Centre as a comprehensive institution that empowers differently abled individuals, promotes inclusive education, and serves as a model centre for holistic care and development.
Our Objectives
To help Parents with children who are at risk and to provide Early Intervention and Special Education.
To evolve and adapt special methods and techniques to enable differently abled children to integrate smoothly
To impart vocational skills and to make them self-sustainable by regular training and guidance.
Memberships & Recognitions
- Recognition by State Commissioner for the Disabled
- Reg No:075850164 Donations are exempted under 80(G)
- Registered under The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act section
- Registered under Tamilnadu Societies act 1975 : 77/1963