Teen Builds AI Tools After Paralysis

Why this is here: Arnav Maharishi began learning machine learning independently through online courses while undergoing rehabilitation, eventually completing Stanford University’s Machine Learning Specialization.

In Aurangabad, India, 17-year-old Arnav Maharishi is developing AI-powered rehabilitation tools after a 2022 accident left him with paralysis on his right side. He created FAIRCHANCE, an application tracking fine motor recovery via smartphone, and ActiveHand, a wearable device encouraging upper limb movement. Arnav earned the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for his work in science and technology.

Following 11 days in a coma, Arnav faced a long recovery involving physiotherapy and occupational therapy. He noticed a lack of quantifiable feedback in his rehabilitation process, inspiring him to design tools offering measurable progress. He independently learned machine learning through online courses, including programs from Stanford University.

Clinical trials are currently underway for both FAIRCHANCE, testing on 30 people, and ActiveHand, testing on 20. While the innovations show promise, further research is needed to fully assess their long-term impact and scalability. Arnav continues to refine his designs and explore new applications of AI in rehabilitation.