Teen Innovator Pranet Khetan Transforms Communication with Paraspeak

Sixteen-year-old Pranet Khetan has made significant strides in communication technology with the development of Paraspeak, an innovative device designed to assist individuals with speech impairments. His journey began during a school trip to a paralysis-care centre, where he witnessed patients struggling to express their thoughts. This profound experience highlighted the gap between understanding and verbal expression, particularly for those speaking Indian languages.

The need for effective communication tools became evident to Pranet. He recognized that while advancements have been made in medical technology, the existing speech-assist devices predominantly catered to English speakers. This oversight left many individuals in India—home to a rich tapestry of languages—without adequate support. Motivated by a desire to create change, he returned home and dedicated himself to developing a solution.

Pranet transformed his room into a makeshift laboratory, filled with wires, circuits, and coding projects. His relentless experimentation was fueled by a personal mission: to restore dignity and a voice to those who had lost theirs due to conditions like stroke or cerebral palsy. He began collecting voice samples in Hindi, diligently training deep learning models and refining algorithms capable of interpreting slurred speech patterns.

After months of hard work, Pranet successfully created Paraspeak, an AI-powered device that converts slurred speech into clear, comprehensible Hindi in real time. Remarkably, the device is priced under ₹2,000, making it accessible for families in smaller towns and rural areas. This affordability is crucial in a country where many struggle to access advanced medical technologies.

Pranet’s innovation garnered international recognition at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2025, where judges praised Paraspeak for its blend of empathy, innovation, and real-world impact. The device not only exemplifies technological advancement but also addresses a pressing social issue, making communication possible for millions who are often overlooked.

As he looks to the future, Pranet is focused on expanding Paraspeak’s capabilities to include additional Indian languages such as Bengali and Tamil. His mission remains clear: to ensure that no voice remains unheard. For Pranet, the act of restoring someone’s ability to communicate is not merely a technological achievement; it embodies a fundamental principle of humanity.

Through his work, Pranet Khetan exemplifies how youthful curiosity and determination can lead to groundbreaking solutions that change lives. His efforts serve as a reminder of the power of innovation to bridge communication gaps and enhance the dignity of those facing challenges in expressing themselves.