AIgnosis: How AI Is Making Early Autism Detection Faster, Cheaper, and More Accessible

In a country where autism diagnosis often comes late due to long waitlists, expensive tests, and limited specialists, AIgnosis is changing the game. In India, about 1 in 68 children, 1.12 to 1.5% of children aged 2-9 years, are affected by ASD.

This groundbreaking Indian startup, founded by Raksheet Jain and Divyansh Mangal, has developed an AI-powered tool that can screen for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children—using just a standard webcam, in just five minutes, and at a fraction of the usual cost.

The idea behind AIgnosis was born from a simple but urgent problem: early detection of autism dramatically improves a child’s developmental outcomes, yet most families face delays due to costly and time-consuming diagnostic processes. Traditional methods often involve multiple specialist visits, lengthy evaluations, and expenses that many can’t afford. AIgnosis cuts through these barriers with an affordable (just ₹700 per test), quick, and completely non-invasive solution that parents can even use at home.

How does it work? The tool uses advanced AI to analyze key behavioral markers like eye contact and responses through a child’s interaction with the screen. No invasive sensors, no clinical setting required—just a laptop or smartphone camera. This isn’t just convenient; it’s revolutionary for rural areas and low-income families who previously had limited access to diagnostic resources.

The startup’s innovation hasn’t gone unnoticed. AIgnosis made waves on Shark Tank India Season 4, securing a ₹1 crore investment for 8% equity from Aman Gupta, Varun Dua, and Peyush Bansal—valuing the company at ₹12.5 crore. That wasn’t their only win: they also raised ₹30 lakh in a seed round and were selected among the top 10 startups (out of 2,400+ applicants) for the prestigious WTFund’s C2/24 cohort, bagging an additional ₹20 lakh grant.

With strong investor confidence and growing recognition, AIgnosis is on a mission to redefine autism care. The team plans to scale their solution across India and beyond, ensuring more children get diagnosed early—giving them and their families a better shot at timely support and therapy. By merging cutting-edge AI with a deep understanding of neurodevelopmental needs, AIgnosis isn’t just building a tool; it’s paving the way for a future where early detection is the norm, not the exception.