Gurugram: In a landmark push that blends corporate purpose with nationwide impact, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) hosted the country’s first-ever Samarth India Conclave and Expo under its flagship initiative, Samarth by Hyundai. The event wasn’t just another conference—it was a national rallying point for inclusion, accessibility, and assistive innovation, with Hyundai subtly reminding everyone that mobility is not merely about wheels, but about widening horizons.
The day-long conclave brought together top dignitaries from the Government of India, corporate leaders, NGOs, start-ups, accessibility experts, and urban planners—essentially everyone you’d want in the room if you’re planning to redesign India for universal access. Among the prominent attendees were:
- Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture & Tourism, Government of India
- Mr. Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India
- Mr. Anupam Kher, veteran actor and director
A New Benchmark for Accessible India: Introducing SAM
One of the key highlights of the event was the unveiling of the Samarth Accessibility Matrix (SAM)—a first-of-its-kind rating system created in partnership with Samarthyam Centre for Universal Accessibility. SAM evaluates how accessible a building or public space truly is—not just whether it has a ramp, but whether that ramp actually leads anywhere useful.
SAM aims to standardize accessibility benchmarks nationwide, empowering institutions and businesses to build spaces that are barrier-free, future-ready, and aligned with global best practices.
Supporting the Future: Mentorship & Funding for Assistive-Tech Startups
Pushing inclusivity beyond theory, the Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF) announced a dedicated mentorship and funding program for promising assistive-tech start-ups. Over the coming years, these young innovators will receive structured support to create tech solutions that enhance mobility, independence, and quality of life for persons with disabilities.
If India’s assistive-tech space needed a turbocharger—Hyundai may have just installed one.
Leadership Speaks
Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, HMIL, stated,
“At Hyundai, we see mobility as more than movement—it is momentum for change. ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ reflects our belief that technology and humanity must advance together. With this conclave, we aim to make accessibility instinctive and universal for everyone.”
Tarun Garg, COO & Whole-Time Director, HMIL, added,
“Accessibility is not an option; it is a fundamental right. Through the Samarth India Conclave and SAM framework, we hope to accelerate inclusive progress and empower transformative solutions for people with disabilities.”
A Showcase of India’s Assistive-Tech Future
The conclave saw participation from 25 innovative start-ups, each showcasing breakthrough solutions—from navigation aids and mobility devices to AI-powered inclusive technologies. HMIL also showcased its specially adapted 2 Turn Plus accessories, reaffirming its commitment to practical, scalable mobility solutions for all.
A Movement, Not a Moment
By hosting the Samarth India Conclave and Expo, Hyundai has positioned itself at the heart of India’s accessibility transformation.
The tone of the day was clear: inclusivity is not charity, nor is it a corporate checkbox—it is the roadmap for India’s future mobility landscape.
And if this inaugural event is any indication, Hyundai doesn’t just want a seat at the table—it wants to redesign the entire table to ensure everyone can reach it.
