DU students develop navigation system for the specially abled: Here's how it helps

Students at Delhi University's Maitreyi College have developed SUGAM, an indoor navigation system for persons with disabilities. The student-led platform aims to make campuses and public buildings easier to access.Students at Delhi University's Maitreyi College have developed SUGAM, an indoor navigation system for persons with disabilities. Finding classrooms, offices or event venues inside large buildings can be challenging for many people with disabilities. To address this, students of Delhi University's Maitreyi College have developed SUGAM (Smart, Universal, Guided, Accessible Mobility), an indoor navigation system designed to help users move independently through campuses and other public spaces.The college has described SUGAM as India's first student-led inclusive indoor navigation system. Developed by students under faculty guidance, the project combines digital technology with accessibility features to support people with visual, hearing and mobility impairments.BUILT FOR DIFFERENT ACCESSIBILITY NEEDS: HOW IT HELPSInstead of offering a one-size-fits-all solution, SUGAM includes features designed for different users.People with visual impairments receive voice-guided navigation to move around buildings. Those with mobility challenges are provided step-by-step directions to reach their destination more easily. Users with hearing impairments receive visual notifications along with vibration-based alerts. The platform also supports multiple Indian languages, making it easier for a wider range of users to access the system.Apart from helping users find their way indoors, SUGAM includes an integrated digital pass system that can be used for campus entry and college events. One of its key features is an audio signage system, which allows users without smartphones or advanced digital skills to navigate buildings. The developers say this makes the technology more inclusive, especially for people who may not be comfortable using mobile applications.According to the college, the project aims to make educational spaces more accessible and encourage greater participation in academic activities, college fairs and other campus events.FROM CAMPUS TO PUBLIC SPACESThe system was launched in the presence of Dr Mathew Varghese, who conceptualised the project, Prof. Haritima Chopra, Principal of Maitreyi College, project lead Prof. Smriti Singh, former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, and the Registrar of the University of Delhi.During the launch, the dignitaries said SUGAM has the potential to be adopted beyond college campuses in places such as hospitals, educational institutions and commercial complexes.The project was developed by a multidisciplinary team of students and faculty from the Computer Science, Physics and Sociology departments. The college also credited CURE India, Dr Prajwalit Shika and Ameya Meattle, a high school student from Singapore, for their contributions to the audio signage feature.- EndsPublished By: Princy ShuklaPublished On: Jul 28, 2026 10:03 IST