In a landmark move to address the silent crisis of bone deformities among India’s underprivileged children, Aakash Healthcare, in partnership with the Anvka Foundation, launched the Pink Bones: Deformity free kids community. The program promises free, end-to-end medical care–from early detection to post-surgery rehabilitation–for children up to 16 years battling congenital and acquired orthopedic conditions.
The recently unveiled initiative enabled a 9-year-old child, once confined to a wheelchair due to severe bowlegs, to take her first independent steps—marking a transformative moment in her life. Treated through the program, her journey symbolizes hope for thousands of children across India.”
“Im happy that I'm able to walk now and within few months i will be able to play with my friends,” she said with an innocent smile, standing beside her parents and *DrAashish Chaudhry, Director & Head, Department of Orthopaedics& Joint Replacement, Aakash Healthcare.*
Why This Initiative Matters
Bone deformities in children, ranging from congenital conditions like clubfoot to post-traumatic malformations including osteochondrodysplasia, scoliosis and osteogenesis imperfecta affect 1 in every 300 children in India, according to the Indian Orthopaedic Association. Limited awareness, poverty, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure leave nearly 70% of cases untreated in rural areas, often condemning children to lifelong disability. Malnutrition exacerbates the problem, with vitamin D deficiency contributing to 35% of pediatric bone disorders in low-income communities.
These conditions can lead to significant physical and psychological challenges, especially among children in underprivileged communities, said DrVikram Khanna, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics& Joint Replacement, Aakash Healthcare.
“Bone deformities in children can arise from various factors, such as injuries, infections, or genetic conditions. These deformities not only hinder a child’s physical growth and development but also affect their ability to perform everyday activities like walking, running, playing, or writing. The impact extends beyond physical limitations, influencing their emotional well-being and psychological health. However, early detection and timely intervention can significantly enhance the quality of life and overall well-being of affected children,” he explained.
Behind Aakash Healthcare’s groundbreaking Bone Deformity Initiative lies a story of personal pain–one that transformed Dr Chaudhry from a patient into a pioneer, turning his own struggles into a mission to help others.
Born with a clubfoot, that nearly robbed him of his ability to walk, he grew up witnessing the silent agony of his parents, who were desperate to find a cure but were met with confusion and misinformation. From one doctor to another, they searched for answers, only to face misdiagnoses and failed treatments that worsened his condition. It was only after an arduous journey to Delhi that they finally found the right treatment–a combination of specialized care and corrective surgery spanning two years.
“This initiative is deeply personal to me because I, too, have felt the pain of that trauma. For children born with such conditions, the consequences of delayed or improper treatment extend far beyond physical limitations. It affects their confidence, their ability to form friendships, pursue careers, and even build meaningful relationships when they grow up. They feel isolated, judged, and unworthy, simply because they were denied the right care at the right time. No child should have to suffer like that, especially when we have the knowledge and means to prevent it. Awareness and access to treatment can change everything. Every child deserves a childhood free from pain and stigma, and if I can be even a small part of making that happen, then that is my way of giving back to society,” said Dr Chaudhry.
“A child’s inability to walk isn’t just a medical issue, but a social, emotional, and economic crisis for families. Our goal is to break this cycle through timely intervention,” he emphasized.
How the Initiative Works
Awareness & Early Detection:
Engaging in community outreach to educate the public about the importance of early detection and management of bone deformities.
Free Treatment:
Complex surgeries, limb corrections, and advanced therapies will be provided at zero cost.
Rehabilitation & Compliance:
Post-treatment physiotherapy, assistive devices, and a follow-up system will ensure sustained recovery.
At the launch event, the child's mother recounted their decade-long struggle and thanked the dedicated medical team at Aakash Healthcare.
“We went to multiple hospitals to get her corrected. Some did not have facilities while others asked for money we couldn't afford. sold our land for her treatment, but nothing worked. When Aakash Healthcare stepped in, they didn’t just fix her legs–they gifted her a childhood,” the mother said.