Where every gesture tells a story, every dream finds expression.
Founded in 1950 by seven visionary deaf youth, the Delhi Association of the Deaf (DAD) is one of India’s oldest and most respected organizations working for the welfare of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. As a registered non-profit, DAD has been instrumental in creating pathways to education, employment, and social inclusion for thousands of deaf individuals over the last seven decades.
Our commitment is rooted in a simple belief – every deaf individual deserves equal opportunity, respect, and the ability to lead an empowered life.
Empowering the deaf community through education, employment, and advocacy to build a more inclusive and self-reliant society.
Providing quality education, vocational training, and skill-building programs tailored for the deaf community to achieve self-reliance.
Partnering with government and private sectors to offer sustainable job placements and entrepreneurship support.
Raising awareness, breaking barriers, and fostering an inclusive society where the deaf are fully accepted and celebrated.
A world where deaf individuals are empowered, independent, and fully integrated into every aspect of society — from education and employment to culture and community leadership.
On October 4, 1950, seven enterprising deaf youths met at the then Piccadilli Restaurant in Connaught Place, New Delhi, and formally decided to found the Deaf & Dumb Association, driven by their vision to empower the community.
Registered under the Societies Registration Act; formal constitution adopted.
On December 20, 1955, the Association hosted the 1st All India Conference of the Deaf which was inaugurated by Dr. K.L. Shrimali, Union Dy. Minister of Education.
On Jan 20, 1971 Association held 4th Delhi State Deaf & Dumb Sports meet at Salwan School Grounds. Air Chief Marshal Arjan Singh inaugurated the meet.
In March 1974, Association hosted General Catiappa Rolling Shield, Second All India Cricket Championship of the Deaf. Association wins Championship and receives the Shield from Past President Shri V.V. Giri who gives away prizes.
On May 29, 1977, Deaf & Dumb Association, Delhi and New Delhi Deaf and Dumb Club composed of educated deaf who had earlier broken away from the Association were merged to form a unified body under the name of Delhi Association of the Deaf.
On Jan. 12-13, 1980 Association organises 11th Delhi State Games of the Deaf at Northern Railway Stadium, New Delhi. Shri D.R. Kohli, Lt. Governor, Delhi inaugurated the Games.
On June 11, 1985 Association celebrated its 35th Annual Day at India International Centre, New Delhi. Shri Ashok Gehlot, Minister of State for Tourism & Civil Aviation, Govt. of India, presides.
Association hosts 14th National Games of the Deaf from Oct. 8 to 11, 1992. Hon’ble Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao, Prime Minister of India inaugurates the games.
Hon'ble Shri Madan Lal Khurana, Chief Minister of Delhi lays the Foundation stone for the Research & Rehabilitation Centre for the Deaf.
Empowering the deaf community through education, skill development, cultural activities, employment support, and rehabilitation programs to foster independence and equal opportunities.
Providing night classes, computer literacy programs, and library access to equip deaf individuals with essential life and career skills.
Promoting talent, confidence, and teamwork through sports events, mime shows, and cultural performances.
Offering vocational training and career counseling to help deaf individuals secure sustainable job opportunities.
Delivering advanced training, counseling, and rehabilitation programs to integrate the deaf into mainstream society with dignity.
