Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference—but in India, assessment often comes late due to limited awareness, stigma, and a lack of accessible tools. In this post, we’ll explore how ASD is assessed in the Indian context, the tools available, and what families and professionals need to know.

✅ Why Early Assessment Matters

Early identification of autism allows families to access support and interventions when the brain is most adaptable. Research shows that early therapy can improve communication, learning, and social skills significantly.

However, in India, many children are diagnosed after the age of 4 or 5, primarily due to:

• Lack of awareness among parents and teachers

• Myths like “boys speak late”

• Cultural normalization of quiet or shy behavior

• Limited access to trained professionals, especially outside metro cities

🛠 Tools for Autism Assessment in India

A number of tools have been developed or adapted for the Indian context. These include:

1. INDT-ASD (INCLEN Diagnostic Tool for ASD)

• Specifically validated in India.

• Suitable for primary care and community settings.

• Free to use and easy to administer.

2. Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA)

• Developed by NIMHANS.

• Used for official disability certification under the RPwD Act.

• Covers social, emotional, behavioral, and communication domains.

3. M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers)

• A quick parent-report screening tool for children aged 16–30 months.

• Available in Indian languages like Tamil, Hindi, and Bengali.

4. CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale)

• Widely used for clinical observation and rating.

• Suitable for use in private clinics and therapy centers.

Other tools like ADOS-2 and DSM-5 checklists are also used by specialists, though availability and training are limited.

🔍 What an Autism Assessment Typically Includes

• Detailed developmental history: Milestones, eye contact, speech, play behavior

• Behavioral observation: Stereotypies, social interaction, sensory responses

• Screening for co-occurring conditions: ADHD, intellectual disability, anxiety

• Assessment of adaptive skills: Daily living, social, and communication abilities

Clinicians often collaborate with psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists to arrive at a holistic diagnosis.

🌱 The Indian Reality: Challenges and Innovations

Common challenges:

• Low public awareness

• Delayed referrals

• Stigma around labeling

• Shortage of specialists in non-urban areas

Encouraging trends:

• Digital assessments and tele-consultations

• Parent-led interventions

• Training of community health workers

• Government support via schemes like NIRAMAYA and UDID

💡 What Can You Do as a Parent or Educator?

• Trust your instincts—early concerns are valid.

• Consult a developmental pediatrician, child psychiatrist, or clinical psychologist.

• Seek a structured evaluation using tools adapted for India.

• Don’t wait for a “final diagnosis” to begin therapy—early intervention works!

🌐 Further Help and Consultation

If you’re a parent concerned about your child’s development, or a professional looking to refer for assessment, feel free to reach out.

Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T
Consultant Psychiatrist, Apollo Clinics Velachery & Tambaram
Specialist in Child and Geriatric Psychiatry
📍 Chennai | 🧠 Autism | 🏥 Psychiatry | 📞 8595155808