LonFao App a boon for deaf and mute
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 25 2025: With the help of LonFao App, a video calling platform, deaf and mute individuals equipped with a smart phone can now connect with qualified interpreters of sign language via live video calls, allowing them to effectively communicate with others even in challenging situations.

Under the supervision of the Department of Social Welfare, Director Chongtham Anjali launched the LonFao App on March 24, 2025 at the Government Deaf and Mute School, Takyel.

It is available for download on Google Play Store.

LonFao App a boon for deaf and mute

In a display of the App's efficacy, this reporter found a Class X student of the Government Deaf and Mute School making a purchase from a wholesale shop.

The boy named Sukur connected with a sign language interpreter through his mobile phone via the LonFao App to help him communicate with the shopkeeper.

The Sangai Express learned that the shopkeeper was informed through a video call that the boy was disabled and wanted to buy some items from the shop.

LonFao App was able to effectively bridge the communication gap between the two.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, Langpoklakpam Dhaneshwar Meetei, Deputy Director, Department of Social Welfare said that deaf and mute individuals have started to independently carry out their affairs at schools, colleges, offices, hospitals, shops etc with the help of LonFao App which addresses their communication needs.

Explaining how the App works, the Deputy Director shared that users start a video call with a professional interpreter and inform them of their needs via sign language.

In turn, the interpreter will provide real-time interpretation to the other party, be it a shopkeeper or any official.

In this way, the App helps to facilitate a back and forth conversation.

In this connection, Langpoklakpam Dhaneshwar Meetei has appealed the public to extend their cooperation when approached by such persons with disabilities in communicating through the App.

The interpreters registered with the App have completed a two year sign language course at the Composite Regional Centre, Takyelpat.

Stating that currently 5 interpreters have been registered, he highlighted the pressing need for more interpreters.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, Nongmaithem Kalpana, Headmistress, Government Deaf and Mute School said that the school was established in 1974 and received official recognition from the Board of Secondary Education Manipur (BOSEM) in 1984 .

Stating that there are 117 students enrolled in the school with 17 teachers, she shared that it offers a Preparatory Grade-I class aside from Classes I to X .

The school also offers boarding facilities while 15 students attend as day scholars.

Most students pass the HSLC Exam in the first division with some even scoring more than 80%, she added.

Lauding the LonFao App for bridging the communication gap for deaf and mute individuals, she said that in many instances people were hesitant to even attempt to offer help, often resulting in their ostracization.

As a result, they have been unable to carry out their personal works independently without the help of their family members or teachers.

However, the launch of LonFao has empowered them to be more independent, she commended.

Stating that Manipur has a significant number of deaf and mute individuals, she urged the public to extend their help and support whenever the need arises.