The National Day For The Deaf, observed today, provided free ENT check-ups for people above 50 years. Creating awareness about the prevention, detection and management of deafness was the underlying theme of the Second National Day for the deaf, organised by the Association of Otolaryngologists (ENT Surgeons) of India (AOI), in 85 towns. The AOI has been involved in social service and awareness programmes ontelevision and radio and has also held medical and teaching camps. According to the secretary of the AOI, Dr Probodh Karnik, ``The event began with our effort to help senior citizens above 60, but this year we have reduced the age-limit to include the working generation.''

Substantial concessions on different models of hearing aids were also provided by major manufacturers. Around 59 centres in Mumbai provided the free service and approximately 3,500 people are reported to have benefitted from it. The pocket type body level hearing aid, popularly known as the Janata model, was available at a discount of 30 per cent. The other models were available at a 10 per cent discount.