THE FIFTH N CPEDP-SHELL1

HELEN .KE LLER AWARDS

T H E F I F T H N C P E D P - S H E L L

H E L E N K E L L E R A W A R D S

THE FIFTH NCPEDP - SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARDS

"One can never consent to

creep when one ee s an • • 1mpu se. to soar."

- Helen I

INTRODUCTION I

It was in 1977 that the Government of India gave 3% reservation in jobs to disabled people, but

only in the C and the D categories. Hidden behind this policy was a mindset, that a disabled person can aspire for being achaprasi or a clerk, but that she/he is not fit enough to be an officer!

The Disability Act of 1995 tried to change the picture. The 3% reservation in jobs was extended to the A and the B categories. But the architects of the Disability Act committed a blunder. They said job placements would be against 'identified' jobs and left the identification of jobs to the babus! For over 3 years nothing happened, till the Hon'ble Supreme Court intervened one day. The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment scrambled and put together a rather shoddy job list. Some jobs got identified and most were left out.

The Government admits that it is a bad job list, but refuses to revise it. Hundreds and thousands of educated, trained and smart disabled people are still being denied an employment opportunity in 21 " Century India.

The idea of any law or policy or reservation is to empower marginalised people; to push them upwards. Here is a curious and most unfortunate case of disabled people being pushed downwards on account of the so-called 'reservation'. Recently, at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie, I came across two completely dejected and demoralised young disabled men, who qualified the Civil Service exams entirely on their own merit and who should have on merit been placed under the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Instead, they have both been given placement under the Indian Information Service (IIS) because some babus in The Depar tment of Personnel & Training feel that people with disabilities cannot, or rather should not be allowed to become IAS officers!

As we celebrate the f,~h year of 'The NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller Awards', we renew our commitment to work towards changing the stereotypical mindsets and to create a level platform for disabled people to prove their true capabilities.

Javed Abidi Executive Director NCPEDP

INTRODUCTION

It w a s in 1977 t h a t t h e G o v e r n m e n t o f Ind ia gave 3% r e s e r v a t i o n in j o b s t o d i s ab l ed p e o p l e , b u t o n l y in t h e C a n d t h e D c a t e g o r i e s . H i d d e n b e h i n d t h i s p o l i c y w a s a m i n d s e t , t h a t a d i s ab l ed p e r s o n can a s p i r e f o r be ing a chaprasi o r a c l e r k , b u t t h a t s h e / h e is n o t f i t e n o u g h t o be an o f f i c e r !

T h e D i s a b i l i t y A c t o f 1995 t r i e d t o c h a n g e t h e p i c t u r e . T h e 3% r e s e r v a t i o n in j o b s w a s e x t e n d e d t o t h e A a n d t h e B c a t e g o r i e s . B u t t h e a r c h i t e c t s o f t h e D i s a b i l i t y A c t c o m m i t t e d a b l u n d e r . T h e y sa id j o b p l a c e m e n t s w o u l d be aga ins t ' i d e n t i f i e d ' j o b s a n d le f t t h e i d e n t i f i c a t i o n o f j o b s t o t h e b a b u s ! F o r o v e r 3 y e a r s n o t h i n g h a p p e n e d , t i l l t h e H o n ' b l e S u p r e m e C o u r t i n t e r v e n e d o n e day. T h e M i n i s t r y o f S o c i a l J u s t i c e & E m p o w e r m e n t s c r a m b l e d a n d p u t t o g e t h e r a r a t h e r s h o d d y j o b l ist . S o m e j o b s g o t i den t i f i ed a n d m o s t w e r e le f t o u t .

T h e G o v e r n m e n t a d m i t s t h a t i t is a bad j o b l is t , b u t r e f u s e s t o r e v i s e i t . H u n d r e d s a n d t h o u s a n d s o f e d u c a t e d , t r a i n e d a n d s m a r t d i s ab l ed p e o p l e a r e st i l l b e i n g d e n i e d an e m p l o y m e n t o p p o r t u n i t y in 21st C e n t u r y Ind ia .

T h e i d e a o f any l a w o r p o l i c y o r r e s e r v a t i o n is t o e m p o w e r m a r g i n a l i s e d p e o p l e ; t o p u s h t h e m u p w a r d s . H e r e is a c u r i o u s a n d m o s t u n f o r t u n a t e c a s e o f d i s ab l ed p e o p l e b e i n g p u s h e d d o w n w a r d s o n a c c o u n t o f t h e s o - c a l l e d ' r e s e r v a t i o n ' . R e c e n t l y , a t t h e Lal B a h a d u r S h a s t r i N a t i o n a l A c a d e m y o f A d m i n i s t r a t i o n , M u s s o o r i e , I c a m e a c r o s s t w o c o m p l e t e l y d e j e c t e d a n d d e m o r a l i s e d y o u n g d i sab led m e n , w h o qua l i f i ed t h e C i v i l S e r v i c e e x a m s ent ire ly o n t h e i r o w n m e r i t a n d w h o s h o u l d have on merit b e e n p l a c e d u n d e r t h e Ind ian A d m i n i s t r a t i v e S e r v i c e ( I A S ) . I n s t e a d , t h e y have b o t h b e e n g iven p l a c e m e n t u n d e r t h e Ind ian I n f o r m a t i o n S e r v i c e ( I IS ) b e c a u s e s o m e babus in T h e D e p a r t m e n t o f P e r s o n n e l & T r a i n i n g fee l t h a t p e o p l e w i t h d i sab i l i t i es c a n n o t , o r r a t h e r s h o u l d n o t be a l l o w e d t o b e c o m e I A S o f f i c e r s !

A s w e c e l e b r a t e t h e fifth y e a r o f ' T h e N C P E D P - S h e l l H e l e n K e l l e r A w a r d s ' , w e r e n e w o u r c o m m i t m e n t t o w o r k t o w a r d s chang ing t h e s t e r e o t y p i c a l m i n d s e t s a n d t o c r e a t e a leve l p l a t f o r m f o r d i s a b l e d p e o p l e t o p r o v e t h e i r t r u e capab i l i t i e s .

J a v e d A b i d i E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r N C P E D P

I I

MESSAGE /.

T he Helen Keller Awards were instituted jointly by NCPEDP and Shell India five years ago. The purpose was to catalyse action for an inclusive, humane society, by bringing to the fore individuals and organisations, who are changing the world positively, by increasing the employment or employability of disabled persons.

Today, the Awards have come to symbolise leadership, courage and the pioneering spirit. The constant growth in the stature of the Awards is due entirely to the value and content addition that the Awardees have made over the years. They have constantly renewed and embellished the ideal of a

compassionate, barrier-free world by their contributions from diverse fields like law, urban planning and human resource management. The standards of achievement and aspiration are being raised every year.

At Shell India, we are fu lly involved, along with NCPEDP, in ensuring the widest reach, complete transparency and competence in the selection process. This year, we have taken additional steps to ensure that there are enhanced opportunities to learn from and share the experience of these role models. My sincere congratulations to the Awardwinners as well as nominees of this year.

Vikram Singh Mehta Chairman Shell Group Companies in India

MESSAGE

The H e l e n K e l l e r A w a r d s w e r e ins t i tu ted jo int ly by N C P E D P and Shel l India f ive yea r s ago. T h e p u r p o s e w a s t o cata lyse ac t ion f o r an inc lus ive , h u m a n e soc iety , by br inging t o t h e fo re indiv iduals and organ i sa t ions , w h o a re changing t h e w o r l d posi t ive ly , by inc reas ing t h e e m p l o y m e n t o r employab i l i t y o f d isabled p e r s o n s .

Today, t h e A w a r d s have c o m e t o symbo l i se leadersh ip , cou rage and t h e p ionee r ing sp i r i t . T h e c o n s t a n t g r o w t h in t h e s ta tu re o f the A w a r d s is due ent i re l y t o the va lue and c o n t e n t add i t ion tha t t h e A w a r d e e s have made o v e r t h e y e a r s . T h e y have cons tan t l y r e n e w e d and embe l l i shed t h e ideal o f a

c o m p a s s i o n a t e , ba r r i e r - f ree w o r l d by t h e i r c o n t r i b u t i o n s f r o m d i ve r se f ie lds l ike law, u rban planning and h u m a n r e s o u r c e management . T h e s tandards o f a c h i e v e m e n t and asp i ra t ion a re being ra i sed e v e r y year .

A t Shel l India , w e a re fully i nvo lved , a long w i t h N C P E D P , in ensu r ing t h e w i d e s t r e a c h , c o m p l e t e t r a n s p a r e n c y and c o m p e t e n c e in t h e se l ec t ion p r o c e s s . T h i s year , w e have t a k e n addi t ional s teps t o e n s u r e t h a t t h e r e a re e n h a n c e d o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o learn f r o m and s h a r e the e x p e r i e n c e o f t hese ro l e m o d e l s . My s i n c e r e congra tu la t ions t o t h e A w a r d -w i n n e r s as w e l l as n o m i n e e s o f th is year .

V i k r a m Singh M e h t a C h a i r m a n Shel l G r o u p C o m p a n i e s in India

MESSAGE I

T he National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) has been pursuing the twin objectives of helping people with disabilities realise their full potential and enabling them to participate equally in all spheres of life. Access to employment opportunities is a vital link in the achievement of these objectives. ·

NCPEDP has taken a new initiative in tllis area by preparing a draft incentive policy for encouraging the corporate sector to employ disabled people.

The Helen Keller Awards instituted by NCPEDP recognise individuals and organisations for their contribution in this direction. I send my congratulat ions to the 2003 awardees and my good wishes for the success of the ceremony.

Sonia Gandhi Leader of Opposition Lok Sabha

MESSAGE

The N a t i o n a l C e n t r e f o r P r o m o t i o n o f E m p l o y m e n t f o r D i sab led Peop le ( N C P E D P ) has been pursu ing t h e t w i n ob jec t i ves o f helping peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies rea l i se t h e i r full potent ia l and enabl ing t h e m t o par t i c ipa te equal ly in all s p h e r e s o f l ife. A c c e s s t o e m p l o y m e n t o p p o r t u n i t i e s is a v ita l l ink in t h e a c h i e v e m e n t o f t h e s e ob jec t i ves .

N C P E D P has t a k e n a n e w init iat ive in th is a r ea by p repar ing a d ra f t incent i ve po l i cy f o r encourag ing t h e c o r p o r a t e s e c t o r t o e m p l o y disabled peop le .

T h e H e l e n K e l l e r A w a r d s ins t i tu ted by N C P E D P recogn i se indiv iduals and organ isa t ions f o r t h e i r c o n t r i b u t i o n in th is d i r e c t i o n . I send my congra tu la t ions t o t h e 2 0 0 3 a w a r d e e s and my g o o d w i s h e s f o r t h e succes s o f t h e c e r e m o n y .

Son ia G a n d h i L e a d e r o f O p p o s i t i o n L o k Sabha

I II

THE 5TH NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARDS

On the occasion of the World Disability Day, 2003, NCPEDP is proud to present the 5 th NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller Awards.

Instituted in 1999, these Awards honour those individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the cause of equal rights of persons with disabilities, their rehabilitation and deserved place in the work environment.

I

It seems like just yesterday when, in 1999, we at NCPEDP pioneered the I" NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller Awards. Today, in their 5th year, it is with great pride and happiness that we announce the increase in the number of Awards to 12, up from IO the last four years! This is a clear reflection of all the good work being done within the disability sector - as well as outside - by people committed to changing the lives of people with disabilities. Nevertheless, we realise that this is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg, and we hope that efforts in this area will continue to grow.

As every year, the award winners were chosen arrer an exhaustive and detailed selection process: invitation of nominations, their scrutiny & evaluation, deliberation &

debate and then final shortlisting by a Selection Committee comprising five wellknown achievers in their respective fields. It was by no means an easy task, and we thank the committee members for the time they spent as well as for their enthusiasm in arriving at the final consensus!

Lastly, we at NCPEDP salute the 12 awardees for their work, their vision, and their ideals that lead them to do what they did; for all that and more, we thank them.

THE 5TH NCPEDP-SHELL

HELEN KELLER AWARDS

On t h e o c c a s i o n o f t h e W o r l d D isab i l i t y Day , 2 0 0 3 , N C P E D P is p r o u d t o p r e s e n t t h e 5 t h N C P E D P - S h e l l H e l e n K e l l e r A w a r d s .

Ins t i tu ted in 1 9 9 9 , t h e s e A w a r d s h o n o u r t h o s e indiv iduals and organ isa t ions tha t have made signif icant c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o t h e cause of equal r ights of p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies , t h e i r rehabi l i ta t ion and d e s e r v e d p lace in t h e w o r k e n v i r o n m e n t .

It s e e m s l ike jus t yes te rday w h e n , in 1 9 9 9 , w e a t N C P E D P p i o n e e r e d t h e 1st N C P E D P - S h e l l H e l e n K e l l e r A w a r d s . Today, in t h e i r 5 t h year , it is w i t h g rea t p r ide and happiness tha t w e a n n o u n c e t h e inc rease in t h e n u m b e r o f A w a r d s t o 12, up f r o m 10 t h e last f o u r y e a r s ! T h i s is a c l ea r re f lec t ion o f all t h e good w o r k being d o n e w i t h i n t h e disabi l i ty s e c t o r - as we l l as ou t s ide - by peop le c o m m i t t e d t o changing the l ives o f peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies . N e v e r t h e l e s s , w e rea l i se tha t th is is on ly t h e t ip o f t h e p rove rb ia l i c ebe rg , and w e h o p e tha t e f fo r t s in th is a r ea w i l l con t i nue t o g r o w .

A s e v e r y year , t h e a w a r d w i n n e r s w e r e c h o s e n a f te r an e x h a u s t i v e and deta i led se lec t ion p r o c e s s : inv i tat ion o f n o m i n a t i o n s , t h e i r s c ru t iny & eva lua t ion , de l ibe ra t ion &

debate and t h e n final shor t l i s t ing by a Se lec t ion C o m m i t t e e c o m p r i s i n g f ive w e l l -k n o w n ach ieve r s in t h e i r r e spec t i ve f ie lds . It w a s by no means an easy t a sk , and w e t h a n k t h e c o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s f o r the t i m e t h e y spen t as w e l l as fo r t h e i r en thus i a sm in a r r i v ing a t t h e final c o n s e n s u s !

Last ly , w e at N C P E D P sa lute t h e 12 a w a r d e e s f o r t h e i r w o r k , t h e i r v i s i on , and t h e i r ideals tha t lead t h e m t o d o w h a t t h e y d id ; f o r all t ha t and m o r e , w e t h a n k t h e m .

SELECTION COMMITTEE

Subodh Bhargava 1 The ex-Group Chairman and Chief Executive of the Eicher Group of Companies, and past

President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Subodh Bhargava is also one of the Founder Trustees of NCPEDP. He is o ne of the active spokespersons for the industry, contributing towards and influencing government po licy and working with the industry to evolve an adequate response to the changing environment. He is presently the Chairman of Wartsila India Ltd., Member of Board of Directors of several o ther companies and Trustee of several educational and other institutions.

Pradeep Gupta An IIT and IIM Alumni, Pradeep Gupta is a successful entrepreneur and angel investor with myriad

business interests in the knowledge sector, including nine magazines (Dataquest, PC Quest, Living Digital, BioSpectrum), market research, an IT portal, exhibitions and seminars, education and media services. A pioneer of IT media in India, he is the Managing Director of Cyber Media India Ltd. He is also a member of info rmat ion technology groups for the governments of Delhi and Punjab.

Alana Officer A New Zealander by nat ionality, Alana Officer is a podiatrist by t raining and holds a Masters degree

in Applied Science from the University of Sydney, Australia. She joined Handicap International, France in 1998, and in 2000, established operations in India, of which she is currently the Country Director. Handicap Internatio nal India has two stat e offices and supports 17 partners implementing projects in the areas of r ights, inclusion, public health, specialised services and accessibility. ·

Ashok B. Verma Present ly the Executive Director of Hemophilia Federation (India), Ashok Verma is also a member

of the Executive Committee of the World Federation of Hemophilia. Under his stewardship, Hemophilia Fede ration (India) is now the umbrella organisation of more than 60 Hemophilia societies all over India. He attributes the success of the movement to its self-help nature, and also to the people who joined him in his mission.

Dr. Shailaja D. Sharma Dr: Shailaja Sharma was a statistical consultant on a number of development projects for the World

Bank and other multilateral age ncies, before jo ining the Shell Group of Companies in the capacity of External Affairs and Sustainable Development Manager in 2002. O ver the last two years, she has been actively involved in promot ing affi rmative action in the disability sector and, and during this period, Shell India has significantly extended t he reach of its disability related initiatives.

SELECTION COMMITTEE

Subodh Bhargava T h e e x - G r o u p C h a i r m a n a n d C h i e f E x e c u t i v e o f t h e E i c h e r G r o u p o f C o m p a n i e s , a n d p a s t

P r e s i d e n t o f t h e C o n f e d e r a t i o n o f Ind ian I n d u s t r y ( C I I ) , S u b o d h B h a r g a v a is a l s o o n e o f t h e F o u n d e r T r u s t e e s o f N C P E D P . H e is o n e o f t h e a c t i v e s p o k e s p e r s o n s f o r t h e i n d u s t r y , c o n t r i b u t i n g t o w a r d s a n d i n f l uenc ing g o v e r n m e n t p o l i c y a n d w o r k i n g w i t h t h e i n d u s t r y t o e v o l v e a n a d e q u a t e r e s p o n s e t o t h e chang ing e n v i r o n m e n t . H e is p r e s e n t l y t h e C h a i r m a n o f W a r t s i l a Ind ia L t d . , M e m b e r o f B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s o f s e v e r a l o t h e r c o m p a n i e s a n d T r u s t e e o f s e v e r a l e d u c a t i o n a l a n d o t h e r i n s t i t u t i o n s .

Pradeep Gupta A n IIT a n d IIM A l u m n i , P r a d e e p G u p t a is a s u c c e s s f u l e n t r e p r e n e u r a n d ange l i n v e s t o r w i t h m y r i a d

b u s i n e s s i n t e r e s t s in t h e k n o w l e d g e s e c t o r , i n c l u d i n g n ine m a g a z i n e s ( D a t a q u e s t , P C Q u e s t , L i v i n g D i g i t a l , B i o S p e c t r u m ) , m a r k e t r e s e a r c h , an I T p o r t a l , e x h i b i t i o n s a n d s e m i n a r s , e d u c a t i o n a n d m e d i a s e r v i c e s . A p i o n e e r o f I T m e d i a in Ind ia , he is t h e Manag ing D i r e c t o r o f C y b e r M e d i a Ind ia L t d . H e is a l s o a m e m b e r o f i n f o r m a t i o n t e c h n o l o g y g r o u p s f o r t h e g o v e r n m e n t s o f D e l h i a n d P u n j a b .

Alana Officer A N e w Z e a l a n d e r by na t iona l i t y , A l a n a O f f i c e r is a p o d i a t r i s t by t r a i n i n g a n d h o l d s a M a s t e r s d e g r e e

in A p p l i e d S c i e n c e f r o m t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f S y d n e y , A u s t r a l i a . S h e j o i n e d H a n d i c a p I n t e r n a t i o n a l , F r a n c e in 1 9 9 8 , a n d in 2 0 0 0 , e s t a b l i s h e d o p e r a t i o n s in Ind ia , o f w h i c h s h e is c u r r e n t l y t h e C o u n t r y D i r e c t o r . H a n d i c a p I n t e r n a t i o n a l Ind ia has t w o s t a t e o f f i ce s a n d s u p p o r t s 17 p a r t n e r s i m p l e m e n t i n g p r o j e c t s in t h e a r e a s o f r i gh t s , i n c l u s i o n , pub l i c h e a l t h , s p e c i a l i s e d s e r v i c e s a n d access ib i l i t y .

Ashok B. Verma P r e s e n t l y t h e E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r o f H e m o p h i l i a F e d e r a t i o n ( I n d i a ) , A s h o k V e r m a is a l s o a m e m b e r

o f t h e E x e c u t i v e C o m m i t t e e o f t h e W o r l d F e d e r a t i o n o f H e m o p h i l i a . U n d e r h is s t e w a r d s h i p , H e m o p h i l i a F e d e r a t i o n ( I nd i a ) is n o w t h e u m b r e l l a o r g a n i s a t i o n o f m o r e t h a n 6 0 H e m o p h i l i a s o c i e t i e s all o v e r Ind ia . H e a t t r i b u t e s t h e s u c c e s s o f t h e m o v e m e n t t o i ts se l f -he lp n a t u r e , a n d a l s o t o t h e p e o p l e w h o j o i n e d h i m in his m i s s i o n .

Dr. Shailaja D. Sharma D r . Sha i la ja S h a r m a w a s a s t a t i s t i ca l c o n s u l t a n t o n a n u m b e r of d e v e l o p m e n t p r o j e c t s f o r t h e W o r l d

B a n k a n d o t h e r m u l t i l a t e r a l a g e n c i e s , b e f o r e j o i n i n g t h e She l l G r o u p o f C o m p a n i e s in t h e c a p a c i t y o f E x t e r n a l A f f a i r s a n d S u s t a i n a b l e D e v e l o p m e n t M a n a g e r in 2 0 0 2 . O v e r t h e las t t w o y e a r s , s h e has b e e n ac t i ve l y i n v o l v e d in p r o m o t i n g a f f i r m a t i v e a c t i o n in t h e d i sab i l i t y s e c t o r a n d , a n d d u r i n g th i s p e r i o d , She l l Ind ia has s ign i f i cant ly e x t e n d e d t h e r e a c h o f its d i sab i l i t y r e l a t e d in i t i a t i ves .

A successful architect,

known for his pioneering

work in improving

conditions for people with disabilities

SPEARHEADIN(.i Cl-IANGE

n 1 lJ s""· Managing Director, /AG Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Atul Desai & Assodates and Atul Desai Consultants Pvt. Ltd.; Past President, Indian Institute of Architects; President, Fellowship of the Physically Handicapped; Chairperson, Architects Regional Council of Asia.

House of Pa tels, 4' Floor, Plot No. 48, 18'' Road Off North Avenue, Santacruz West, Mumbai - 400 054. Tel: 91-22-26042756 /3901 .

E-mail: iag@bol.netin

He lost the use of both his legs due to polio at the tender age of two. It was his and his parents 'never say die' attitude that made Atul Desai complete his schooling and decide to become an architect.

The principal of the J. J. School of Arts was ready to give him admission but was skeptical about his ability to cope with the strenuous course of study. It was again Atul's attitude, tenacity and determination that finally convinced him, and after his completion of the course, Atul became a qualified architect.

While establishing his own successful

I

practice, Atul also spearheaded social improvements for persons with disabilities. Atul associated himself with the Fellowship of the Physical ly Handicapped (FPH), which has done pioneering work in the area of disability rights. Later, becoming its President in 1989, Atul continuously strived for better aids & appliances, facilities and environment for people w ith disabilities. Under his leadership, FPH developed and produced an electronically operated wheelchai r and started a new department for limbs and appliances.

Atul has been the main speaker at seminars for making Bhopal and Pu ne barrier free cities, and has actively contributed in the movement for creating barrier free environment for individuals with disabilities.

Today, Atul heads three highly successful architectural firms, employing over 35 professionals, is the recipient of the National Award in 1989, and is listed -in the book on 'Outstanding Disabled Personalities'.

SPEARHEADING CHANGE

Atul Desai

Managing Director, IAG Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Atul Desai & Associates and Atul Desai Consultants Pvt. Ltd.; Past President, Indian Institute of Architects; President, Fellowship of the Physically Handicapped; Chairperson, Architects Regional Council of Asia.

Te/: 9 l-22-26042756/390/.

House of Patels, 4th Floor, Plot No. 48, 18th Road Off North Avenue, Santacruz West, Mumbai - 400 054.

E-mail: iag@bol.net.inA successful architect,

known for his pioneering

work in improving

conditions for people with disabilities

H e los t t h e use of bo th his legs due t o pol io at t h e t e n d e r age o f t w o . It w a s his and his pa rents ' n e v e r say die ' a t t i tude tha t m a d e A t u l D e s a i c o m p l e t e his s choo l ing and dec ide t o b e c o m e an a r ch i t ec t .

T h e pr inc ipa l o f t h e J . J . S c h o o l of A r t s w a s ready t o give h im admis s ion but w a s skept ica l a b o u t his abi l i ty t o c o p e w i t h t h e s t r e n u o u s c o u r s e o f study. It w a s again A tu l ' s a t t i tude , t enac i t y and d e t e r m i n a t i o n tha t f inal ly c o n v i n c e d h i m , and a f te r his c o m p l e t i o n o f t h e c o u r s e , A t u l b e c a m e a qual i f ied a r ch i t ec t .

W h i l e establ ish ing his o w n success fu l

p r a c t i c e , A t u l a lso s p e a r h e a d e d soc ia l i m p r o v e m e n t s f o r p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies . A t u l a s soc ia ted h imse l f w i t h t h e F e l l o w s h i p o f t h e P h y s i c a l l y Hand i capped ( F P H ) , w h i c h has d o n e p ionee r ing w o r k in t h e a r e a of disabi l i ty r ights . Later , b e c o m i n g its P re s iden t in 1 9 8 9 , A t u l con t inuous l y s t r i ved fo r b e t t e r a ids & appl iances , faci l i t ies and e n v i r o n m e n t f o r peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies . U n d e r his l eadersh ip , F P H deve loped and p r o d u c e d an e lec t ron i ca l l y o p e r a t e d w h e e l c h a i r a n d s t a r t e d a n e w d e p a r t m e n t f o r l imbs and appl iances .

A t u l has been the main s p e a k e r a t s e m i n a r s f o r mak ing Bhopa l and Pune b a r r i e r f r ee c i t ies , and has act ive ly c o n t r i b u t e d in t h e m o v e m e n t f o r c rea t ing b a r r i e r f r e e e n v i r o n m e n t f o r indiv iduals w i t h disabi l i t ies .

Today , A t u l heads t h r e e highly success fu l a r ch i t e c tu ra l f i r m s , emp loy ing o v e r 35 pro fess iona l s , is t h e rec ip ien t o f t h e Na t iona l A w a r d in 1 9 8 9 , and is l i s ted in t h e b o o k o n ' O u t s t a n d i n g D i sab led Persona l i t ies ' .

mailto:iag@bol.net.in

He believes that protection

of basic human rights is the catalyst

for widespread social reform

J ( ) '.\ I f R 11\i < , f I l \ 1 \ ~ I J \ I{ I \ ~ ~

Executive Director, Socio Legal lnformotion Centre; Convenor, Human Rights Law Network; CoConvenor, Indian People's Tribunal on Environment & Human Rights.

65, Masjid Road, Jungpura, New Delhi - I /0 014. Tel.: 91-1124352563, 24319857. E-mail: colin_hrln@yahoo.co.uk

If there was ever anyone who could be called t he

pioneer in humanitarian law in India, it is Colin Gonsalves.

A practicing lawyer at the Supreme Court of India, and High Courts at New Delhi and Mumbai, Colin's driving force is that he feels that defending the basic human rights of individuals and communities in Indian law courts can be the catalyst for widespread social reform. To this, he has used his own legal background to good effect - by his pathbreaking efforts to systemise public interest law in India and by building institutional and professional expertise in the field.

The Human Rights Law Network (HRLN), set up by Colin, is the first nationwide network of lawyers and

I

social activists that offers quick response and pro bono support to those who have little or no access to legal recourse. For the last 15 years, HRLN has been doing public interest litigation, _monitoring human rights violations and campaigning for justice in the area of the rights of disabled people, women, children, dalits and tribals.

The full-fledged Disability Unit of HRLN works to increase awareness about disability laws and provide legal assistance to persons with disability. The Unit has also conducted a series of State Workshops to sensitise the judiciary and lawyers about the rights of disabled people.

Colin has also been instrumental in organising and participating in numerous Indian and international conferences and workshops in the areas of human rights, gender justice, communa lism, environment and right to food. And, as if all this were not enough. Colin is also the Founder and Joint Editor of Combat Law (a human rights magazine), and a coedit,or of Prisoner's Rights, Women & the Law, The Environmental Activists Handbook and Freedom of the Press!

PIONEERING HU MAN1TARIAN LAWS

He believes that protection

of basic human rights is the catalyst

for widespread social reform

Colin Gonsalves

Executive Director, Socio Legal Information Centre; Convenor, Human Rights Law Network; Co-Convenor, Indian People's Tribunal on Environment & Human Rights.

65, Masjid Road, Jungpura, New Delhi - 110 014. Tel.: 91-1 /-24352563, 243 I 9857. E-mail: colin_hrln@yahoo.co.uk

If t h e r e w a s e v e r anyone w h o c o u l d be cal led t h e

p i o n e e r In human i ta r i an law in India , it is C o l i n G o n s a l v e s .

A prac t i c ing l awye r a t t h e S u p r e m e C o u r t o f India , and High C o u r t s at N e w De lh i and M u m b a i , C o l i n ' s dr iv ing f o r c e is tha t he feels tha t defending the basic h u m a n r i g h t s o f i n d i v i d u a l s a n d c o m m u n i t i e s in Indian law c o u r t s can be t h e ca ta l y s t f o r w i d e s p r e a d soc ia l r e f o r m . T o th i s , he has used his o w n legal backg round t o good ef fect - by his path-break ing e f fo r t s t o s y s t e m i s e publ ic i n te res t law in India and by bui lding inst i tut iona l and pro fess iona l e x p e r t i s e in t h e f ie ld .

T h e H u m a n Rights L a w N e t w o r k ( H R L N ) , s e t up by C o l i n , is t h e f i r s t n a t i o n w i d e n e t w o r k o f l awye r s and

soc ia l act iv i s ts tha t o f fe rs qu i ck r e s p o n s e and p ro b o n o s u p p o r t t o t h o s e w h o have l itt le o r no access t o legal r e c o u r s e . F o r t h e last 15 y e a r s , H R L N has been do ing publ ic i n te re s t l i t igat ion, m o n i t o r i n g h u m a n r ights v io la t ions and campaigning f o r jus t i ce in t h e a r e a o f t h e r ights o f d isabled p e o p l e , w o m e n , c h i l d r e n , dal its and t r iba l s .

T h e ful l-f ledged Disab i l i ty U n i t o f H R L N w o r k s t o inc rease a w a r e n e s s a b o u t disabi l i ty laws and p rov ide legal ass i s tance t o p e r s o n s w i t h disabil ity. T h e U n i t has a l so c o n d u c t e d a se r i e s o f State W o r k s h o p s t o sens i t i se the jud i c i a ry and l awye r s a b o u t t h e r ights o f d isabled peop le .

C o l i n has a lso been i n s t r u m e n t a l in organis ing and par t i c ipat ing in n u m e r o u s Indian and in te rna t iona l c o n f e r e n c e s and w o r k s h o p s in the a reas o f human r ights , g e n d e r j u s t i c e , c o m m u n a l i s m , e n v i r o n m e n t and r ight t o f o o d . A n d , as if all th i s w e r e n o t e n o u g h , C o l i n is a lso t h e F o u n d e r and Jo in t E d i t o r of C o m b a t L a w (a human r ights magaz ine ) , and a c o e d i t o r o f P r i s o n e r ' s R ights , W o m e n & t h e Law , T h e E n v i r o n m e n t a l A c t i v i s t s H a n d b o o k and F r e e d o m of t h e P re s s !

mailto:colin_hrln@yahoo.co.uk

He imparts education and

training to empower visually

impaired students

EMPOWERING THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Jawahar Lal Kaul Secretory General, All Indio Confederation of the Blind Braille Bhowon, Institutional Area, Sector V. Rohini, Delhi - I IO 085. Tel.: 91-l l-27054082. E-mail : aicbdelhi@yohoo.com

Jawahar Lal Kaul's total loss of vision at the age of 5, on account of smallpox, did

not stand in his way of a distinguished academic career. In 1967, he stood first in BA Ho ns. (Sanskrit) from Punjab University. Thereafter, he actively began work in the field of visual impairment by setting up a training and rehabilitation centre for the visually impaired. Later, he helped in founding the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), of which he served as the General Secretary for many years. In 1980, he set up the All India Confederation of the Blind (AICB), headquartered in Delhi.

As the Secretary General of the

I

AICB, Jawahar has guided AICB to its becoming a major national association with an impressive list of affiliates across India. Recognising the importance of education, Jawahar made AICB a pioneer in Braille production. Today, AICB provides textbook support to students in many states. Encouraging people to recognise that visual ly impai red students - given the right inputs - could study science, he set up a science laboratory and resource centre. And through a pioneering stenography programme, he helped more than 170 visually impaired people gain suitable employment.

Jawarhar's dedication to his cause has been amply recognised - he is the recipient of numerous national and international awards, including the FICCI National Award for best service to the blind in training & rehabilitation.

EMPOWERING THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

He impartseducation and

training to empower

visuallyimpairedstudents

J a w a h a r Lal Kaul Secretary General, All India

Confederation of the blind

Braille Bhawan, Institutional Area,

Sector V, Rohini, Delhi - 110 085. Tel.:

9 1 - 1 1 - 2 7 0 5 4 0 8 2 . E-mail:

aicbdelhi@yahoo.com

J a w a h a r Lal Kau l ' s to ta l loss of v i s ion a t t h e age o f 5, on a c c o u n t o f sma l l p ox , did

n o t s tand in his w a y of a d is t inguished academic ca reer . In 1 9 6 7 , he s t o o d f i r s t in B .A . H o n s . ( Sansk r i t ) f r o m Punjab Un ive r s i t y . T h e r e a f t e r , he act ive ly began w o r k in t h e f ield o f v isual i m p a i r m e n t by set t ing up a t ra in ing and rehabi l i ta t ion c e n t r e fo r t h e v isual ly impa i r ed . La ter , he h e l p e d in f o u n d i n g t h e N a t i o n a l F e d e r a t i o n o f t h e B l ind ( N F B ) , o f w h i c h he s e r v e d as t h e G e n e r a l S e c r e t a r y f o r many y e a r s . In 1980 , he s e t up t h e A l l India C o n f e d e r a t i o n o f t h e B l ind ( A I C B ) , h e a d q u a r t e r e d in D e l h i .

A s t h e S e c r e t a r y G e n e r a l o f t h e

A I C B , J a w a h a r has guided A I C B t o its b e c o m i n g a m a j o r nat ional assoc ia t ion w i t h an impress i ve l ist o f aff i l iates a c r o s s India . Recogn i s ing the i m p o r t a n c e of e d u c a t i o n , J a w a h a r m a d e A I C B a p i o n e e r in Bra i l le p r o d u c t i o n . Today, A I C B p rov ides t e x t b o o k s u p p o r t t o s tudents in many s ta tes . Encourag ing p e o p l e t o r e c o g n i s e t h a t v i s u a l l y impa i red s tuden t s - given t h e r ight inputs - c o u l d s tudy s c i e n c e , he se t up a s c i ence l a b o r a t o r y and r e s o u r c e c e n t r e . A n d t h r o u g h a p i o n e e r i n g s t e n o g r a p h y p r o g r a m m e , he he lped m o r e than 170 v isual ly impa i red peop le gain sui table e m p l o y m e n t .

J a w a r h a r ' s ded ica t ion t o his cause has been amply recogn i sed - he is t h e rec ip ien t o f n u m e r o u s nat ional and in te rna t iona l a w a r d s , inc luding t h e F I C C I N a t i o n a l A w a r d f o r bes t s e r v i c e t o t h e bl ind in t ra in ing & rehab i l i ta t ion .

mailto:aicbdelhi@yahoo.com

He opens doors/or

people with disabilities

from the economically

weaker sections of

society

ADVOCATING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES I

Nara Nageswarrao General Secretary, Andhra Pradesh Unemployed Disabled Welfare Association.

H. No.: 16-l l-20-71O11, Saleem Nagar Colony, Malakpet, Hyderabad - 500 036, Andhra Pradesh. Tel.: 91-40-24059037 . E-mail : nn rao_ 7 4@rediffmail.com, apudwa_org@rediffmail.com

Nara Nageswarrao was born in a rural, backward

district of Warangal, Andhra Pradesh. Affected by Polio since birth, he had to walk a distance of 6 kilometres to school and back. After completing his school education with distinction, he went on to obtain an Engineering degree in Computer Science.

While he was still an engineering student, Nageswar realised his calling in life. He started participating actively in various social activities for the welfare of people with disabilities, and later, started the Andhra Pradesh Unemployed Disabled Welfare Association (APUDWA). As its founder General Secretary, Nageswar has spent the past many years single-mindedly fighting for

the rights of people with disabilities.

Nageswar is a member of the State Task Force set up by the Andhra Pradesh government to implement the 3% reservation in jobs for disabled people. To this effect, APUDWA has been directly responsible for getting a backlog of nearly .2,500 government positions filled by people with disabilities. Nearly 600 disabled persons have also benefi tted under various selfemployment loans, under different schemes , through Nageswar's interventic;>n. And more than 300 other economically disadvantaged rural people with disability have gained admission to various colleges and hostels. He has also been a strong advocate for relaxations in recruitment norms in teaching posts for people with disability.

Nageswar was awarded the 'Best Social Worker Award' on the occasion of the International Year of the Disabled, 200 I. He is also the winner of the 'Best Gold Shield' Award, 2000-200 I, and the 'Best Youth Award' for social service to disabled people.

ADVOCATING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

N a g e s w a r is a m e m b e r o f t h e S ta te T a s k F o r c e s e t up by t h e A n d h r a P radesh g o v e r n m e n t t o i m p l e m e n t t h e 3% r e s e r v a t i o n in jobs f o r d isabled peop le . T o th is ef fect , A P U D W A has been d i rec t l y respons ib le f o r gett ing a back log o f near ly 2 ,500 g o v e r n m e n t pos i t ions f i l led by peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies . N e a r l y 6 0 0 d i s a b l e d p e r s o n s h a v e a l s o b e n e f i t t e d u n d e r v a r i o u s s e l f -e m p l o y m e n t loans , u n d e r d i f f e r e n t s c h e m e s , t h r o u g h N a g e s w a r ' s i n t e r v e n t i o n . A n d m o r e than 3 0 0 o t h e r e c o n o m i c a l l y d isadvantaged ru ra l peop le w i t h disabi l i ty have gained admis s ion t o v a r i o u s co l leges and hos te l s . H e has a lso been a s t r o n g advoca te fo r r e l axa t ions in r e c r u i t m e n t n o r m s in teach ing pos t s f o r peop le w i t h disabil ity.

N a g e s w a r w a s a w a r d e d t h e ' B e s t Soc ia l W o r k e r A w a r d ' o n t h e o c c a s i o n o f t h e In te rnat iona l Y e a r of t h e D i s a b l e d , 2001. H e is a l so t h e w i n n e r o f t h e ' B e s t G o l d Sh ie ld ' A w a r d , 2 0 0 0 - 2 0 0 1 , and t h e ' B e s t Y o u t h A w a r d ' f o r soc ia l s e r v i c e t o d isabled peop le .

He opens doors for

people with disabilities

from the economically

weaker sections of

society

Nara Nageswarrao General Secretary, Andhra Pradesh Unemployed Disabled Welfare Association.

H. No.: 16-11-20-7/D/I, Saleem Nagar Colony, Malakpet, Hyderabad - 500 036, Andhra Pradesh. Tel.: 9140-24059037. E - m a i l : n n r a o _ 7 4 @ r e d i f f m a i l . c o m , apudwa_org@rediffmail.com

N a r a N a g e s w a r r a o w a s b o r n in a r u r a l , b a c k w a r d

d i s t r i c t o f W a r a n g a l , A n d h r a P r a d e s h . A f f e c t e d by Pol io s ince b i r t h , he had t o w a l k a d i s tance o f 6 k i l o m e t r e s t o s c h o o l and back . A f t e r comp le t i ng his s c h o o l educa t ion w i t h d i s t inc t ion , he w e n t o n t o obta in an Eng ineer ing degree in C o m p u t e r S c i e n c e .

W h i l e he w a s stil l an eng ineer ing s tuden t , N a g e s w a r rea l i sed his cal l ing in life. H e s t a r t e d par t i c ipat ing act ive ly in v a r i o u s soc ia l act iv i t ies f o r t h e w e l f a r e o f peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies , and later , s t a r t e d t h e A n d h r a P r a d e s h U n e m p l o y e d D i s a b l e d W e l f a r e A s s o c i a t i o n ( A P U D W A ) . A s its f o u n d e r G e n e r a l Sec re ta r y , N a g e s w a r has spen t t h e past many yea r s s ing le-mindedly f ighting f o r

t h e r ights of peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies .

mailto:apudwa_org@rediffmail.commailto:nnrao_74@rediffmail.com

She devotes her working

life to providing

better access for people with

disabilities

BUILDING A BARRIER FREE ENVIRONMENT I

Papiya Sarkar Senior Architect, Government o((ndia Room No. 719, Akbar Bhawan, Chankyapuri, New Delhi - I IO 021. Te/.: 9/-//-24673490. E-mail: srar@meaab.nic.in

An architect with a Masters degree in Urban Design, Papi ya Sarkar devotes her working life to projects and programmes

towards creating a barrier free environment for persons with disability.

Since 1989, her list of achievements in the area of barrier free environment for people with disabilities is truly amazing: she has helped in the development of Model Building By-Laws, circulated to all States, specifying the incorporation of architectural design elements suitable for persons with disability; she has prepared a policy paper on Guidelines & Space Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Persons with Disabil ity and the Elderly; she has planned and executed barrier free features in public buildings through a

pilot project at I.P. Estate in New Delhi. The features include ramps with railings, reserved parking, lifts and toilets for persons with disability, and international signages; she has upgraded 50 polytechnics with the objective of integrating people with disability in the mainstream of technical & vocational education; and she has been associated with the CPWD Training lnstitute's training programme for barrier free environment for people with disability, with a special 'Disability Simulation Exercise' to sensitise architects and engineers on this critical issue.

Papiya has attended workshops in China, Japan and Thailand, the last in the capacity of an expert to prepare guidelines for a barrier free environment in the ESCAP region.

And, at the present time too, she is working on the issue closest to her heart - to make all new Passport Offices (including Chandigarh, Lucknow and

, Kolkata) and Indian Chancery buidings (in Muscat, Beijing, Doha, Kathmandu and Dhaka) barrier free!

BUILDING A BARRIER FREE ENVIRONMENT

Papiya S a r k a r Senior Architect, Government of India Room No. 719, Akbar Bhawan, Chankyapuri, New Delhi - 110 021. Tel.: 91-11-24673490. E-mail : srar@meaab.nic.in

A n a r c h i t e c t w i t h a M a s t e r s degree in U r b a n D e s i g n , P a p i y a S a r k a r devo tes h e r w o r k i n g life t o p ro jec t s and p r o g r a m m e s

t o w a r d s c r e a t i n g a b a r r i e r f r e e e n v i r o n m e n t f o r p e r s o n s w i t h disabil ity.

She devotes her working

life to providing

better access for people with

disabilities

S ince 1 9 8 9 , h e r l ist of a ch i evement s in t h e a r e a o f b a r r i e r f r ee e n v i r o n m e n t f o r peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies is t r u l y a m a z i n g : s h e has h e l p e d in t h e d e v e l o p m e n t of Mode l Bui ld ing B y - L a w s , c i r cu la ted t o all S ta tes , spec i fy ing t h e i n c o r p o r a t i o n o f a r ch i t e c tu ra l design e l e m e n t s su i table f o r p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i ty ; she has p r e p a r e d a pol icy paper o n G u i d e l i n e s & Space S tandards fo r B a r r i e r F r e e Bui l t E n v i r o n m e n t fo r P e r s o n s w i t h D isab i l i ty and t h e E lder l y ; she has p lanned and e x e c u t e d b a r r i e r f r ee fea tu res in publ ic buildings t h r o u g h a

pi lot p ro jec t a t I.P. E s ta te in N e w D e l h i . T h e fea tu res inc lude r a m p s w i t h ra i l ings , r e s e r v e d park ing , lifts and to i l e t s f o r p e r s o n s w i t h disabil ity, and in te rnat iona l s i g n a g e s ; s h e h a s u p g r a d e d 5 0 p o l y t e c h n i c s w i t h t h e ob jec t i ve o f integrat ing peop le w i t h disabi l i ty in t h e m a i n s t r e a m of t echn i ca l & voca t iona l e d u c a t i o n ; and she has been as soc ia ted w i t h t h e C P W D Tra in ing Inst i tute 's t ra in ing p r o g r a m m e f o r b a r r i e r f r ee e n v i r o n m e n t f o r peop le w i t h disabil ity, w i t h a specia l 'D i sab i l i t y S imula t ion E x e r c i s e ' t o sens i t i se a r ch i tec t s and eng ineers o n th is c r i t i ca l i ssue .

Papiya has a t t ended w o r k s h o p s in C h i n a , Japan and T h a i l a n d , the last in t h e capac i t y o f an e x p e r t t o p r e p a r e guidel ines f o r a b a r r i e r f r e e e n v i r o n m e n t in t h e E S C A P reg ion .

A n d , at t h e p r e s e n t t i m e t o o , she is w o r k i n g o n t h e i ssue c lo ses t t o h e r h e a r t - t o make all n e w P a s s p o r t O f f i c e s ( inc luding C h a n d i g a r h , L u c k n o w and Ko lka ta ) and Indian C h a n c e r y buidings ( in Musca t , Bei j ing, D o h a , K a t h m a n d u and D h a k a ) b a r r i e r f r e e !

mailto:srar@meaab.nic.in

He uses his ca,pentry skills

to change the lives of many

INNOVATIVE USE OF CRAFT

Ram Dayal Sharma Senior Carpenter, Action for Ability Development and Inclusion (AADI)

2, Balbir Saxena Marg, New Delhi • 110 0/6. Tel.:91-11-26864714/ 2 6 9 6 6 3 3 1

Tel.:91-1 l-268647/4/ 2696633/. E - m a i l : ssni@del3.vsnl.net.in

£-mail : ssni@de/3.vsnl.netin

Ram Dayal Sharma was born in a humble family of carpenters in Barbatta

village in district Samastipur, Bihar. Educated till Class IX, he followed the family tradition, and came to Delhi in 1984 in search of employment.

Destiny brought him to AADI, then known as the Spastics Society of Northern India, in 1985. While doing the woodwork for the new building of AADI, Ram Dayal observed children with disabilities coming to the organisation, and began making special furniture for them with ideas and suggestions from therapists, individuals and caretakers. After that, there was no looking back!

. Ram Dayal's adaptations in

I

wheelchairs, chairs and tables for

persons with severe cerebral palsy enables them to sit for long hours at their workplace; he has made changes in doors and toilets to enable disabled people to be a part of the workforce; he has made communication boards and educational aids; he has made ramps at various auditoriums in Delhi, and has provided technical inputs to commercial organisations for the same; he has made adaptations in cutlery and looking glasses; he has made pen/pencil grippers, reading wedges and prone lying frames to enable persons with severe

impairment to pursue their education.

Ram Dayal is the rare and classic example of a person who utilises his traditional craft in the most contemporary way to make a difference in the lives of persons with disability. As awareness on disability issues increases, there is a crying need for more Ram Dayals, who could meet the specific need for such design changes.

INNOVATIVE USE OF CRAFT

He uses his carpentry skills

to change the lives of many

R a m D a y a l S h a r m a Senior Carpenter, Action for Ability Development and Inclusion (AADI)

2, Balbir Saxena Marg, New Delhi 110 016.

.

R a m Daya l S h a r m a w a s b o r n in a humb le fami ly o f c a r p e n t e r s in B a r b a t t a

vi l lage in d i s t r i c t Samast ipur , B ihar . E d u c a t e d til l C l a s s I X , he f o l l o w e d t h e family t r a d i t i o n , and c a m e t o D e l h i in 1984 in sea r ch of e m p l o y m e n t .

D e s t i n y b rought h im t o A A D I , t h e n k n o w n as t h e Spast i cs Soc i e t y o f N o r t h e r n India , in 1 9 8 5 . W h i l e do ing t h e w o o d w o r k f o r t h e n e w bui lding o f A A D I , R a m Daya l o b s e r v e d ch i ld ren w i t h d i s a b i l i t i e s c o m i n g t o t h e o rgan i sa t ion , and began mak ing specia l f u r n i t u r e f o r t h e m w i t h ideas and suggest ions f r o m the rap i s t s , indiv iduals and c a r e t a k e r s . A f t e r tha t , t h e r e w a s no look ing back!

R a m D a y a l ' s a d a p t a t i o n s in

w h e e l c h a i r s , c h a i r s and t ab l e s f o r p e r s o n s w i t h s e v e r e c e r e b r a l palsy enables t h e m t o s i t f o r long h o u r s at t h e i r w o r k p l a c e ; he has made changes in d o o r s and to i l e t s t o enable d isabled peop le t o be a p a r t o f t h e w o r k f o r c e ; he has made c o m m u n i c a t i o n boa rds and educat iona l a ids ; he has made r a m p s at v a r i o u s a u d i t o r i u m s in D e l h i , and has p rov ided techn ica l inputs t o c o m m e r c i a l o rgan i sa t ions fo r t h e s a m e ; he has made adapta t ions in c u t l e r y and look ing glasses ; he has made pen/penci l g r i ppe r s , read ing w e d g e s and p r o n e lying f r a m e s t o e n a b l e p e r s o n s w i t h s e v e r e i m p a i r m e n t t o p u r s u e t h e i r e d u c a t i o n .

R a m Daya l is t h e r a r e and c lass ic e x a m p l e o f a p e r s o n w h o ut i l ises his t r a d i t i o n a l c r a f t i n t h e m o s t c o n t e m p o r a r y w a y t o m a k e a d i f fe rence in t h e l ives o f p e r s o n s w i t h disabil ity. A s a w a r e n e s s o n disabi l i ty i ssues inc reases , t h e r e is a c r y i ng n e e d f o r m o r e R a m Daya l s , w h o cou ld m e e t t h e speci f ic n e e d fo r such design changes .

mailto:ssni@del3.vsnl.net.in

Overcoming his own

disability, he went on to

make a dijference in

the lives of others

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Subhash V. Dhavale Chief Operating Officer, /CIC/ Securities and Finance Company Limited

Flat No. 25, Building No. I, Doctors Quarters, Government Colony, Haji Ali, Mumbai - 400 034. Tel: 91-22-24906070 . E-mail: subash_dhavale@isecltd.com

Subhash Dhavale was affected with infantile paralysis at the age of 4, which rendered him completely paralysed from the neck downward. Over a period of the next 16 years, he underwent several surgeries that finally enabled him to walk with the help of a stick.

In 1970, he qualified as a Chartered Accountant, and then went on to obtain degrees in Law and Management.

Currently, the Chief Operating Officer of ICICI Secu rities and Finance Company, he has also devoted

I

considerable time to the Indian disability movement. Among his many other initiatives, he tested the first motorised tri-wheeler, specially developed for people with orthopaedic disabilities.

Subhash has conducted special sessions with the Mumbai and Thane police to inculcate awareness about the special needs of disabled people among them. He has done considerable welfare work ,through the Lions Club. He has also coordinated with the Ministries of Finance, Commerce and Industry for the manufacture of a specially made handoperated car for people with disabilities.

Subhash is a keen sportsman, having represented his school in junior level swimming and cricket competitions; and has indulged in his love for travelling by driving his own vehicle to most parts of

' India.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Overcominghis own

disability, he went on to

make a difference in

the lives of others

S u b h a s h V. Dhavale Chief Operating Officer, ICICI

Securities and Finance Company

Limited

Flat No. 25, Building No. 1, Doctors

Quarters, Government Colony, Haji

Ali, Mumbai - 400 034. Tel: 91-22

2 4 9 0 6 0 7 0 . E-mail:

subash_dhavale@isecltd.com

Subhash D h a v a l e w a s af fected w i t h infanti le para lys is at t h e age o f 4 , w h i c h r e n d e r e d h im c o m p l e t e l y para lysed f r o m t h e n e c k d o w n w a r d . O v e r a p e r i o d of t h e n e x t 16 y e a r s , he u n d e r w e n t severa l su rge r i e s tha t finally enab led h im t o w a l k w i t h the he lp o f a s t i ck .

In 1970 , he qual i f ied as a C h a r t e r e d A c c o u n t a n t , and t h e n w e n t o n t o obta in degrees in L a w and Management .

C u r r e n t l y , t h e C h i e f O p e r a t i n g O f f i c e r o f I C I C I S e c u r i t i e s a n d F i n a n c e C o m p a n y , h e h a s a l s o d e v o t e d

cons ide rab le t i m e t o the Indian disabi l i ty m o v e m e n t . A m o n g his many o t h e r in i t iat ives , he t e s t e d t h e first m o t o r i s e d t r i - w h e e l e r , spec ia l l y d e v e l o p e d f o r peop le w i t h o r t h o p a e d i c disabi l i t ies .

S u b h a s h has c o n d u c t e d s p e c i a l sess ions w i t h t h e Mumba i and T h a n e po l i ce t o incu lcate a w a r e n e s s a b o u t t h e specia l needs o f d isabled peop le a m o n g t h e m . H e has d o n e cons ide rab l e w e l f a r e w o r k t h r o u g h t h e L ions C l u b . H e has a lso c o o r d i n a t e d w i t h t h e Min i s t r i es of F inance , C o m m e r c e and I ndus t r y f o r t h e manu fac tu re o f a specia l ly made hand-o p e r a t e d ca r f o r peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies .

Subhash is a keen s p o r t s m a n , having r e p r e s e n t e d his s c h o o l in j u n i o r level s w i m m i n g and c r i c k e t c o m p e t i t i o n s ; and has indulged in his love f o r t rave l l ing by dr iv ing his o w n veh ic le t o m o s t pa r t s of India .

mailto:subash_dhavale@isecltd.com

..... ·- .._ ----·-- --- -----

--...

-

-.... -- -

She started the first

school for people with

visual impairment

in Rajasthan

... - --- -:._ -...:..~ -- ---- -. --- -:-

~

The State Commissioner

for Disabilil)', he believes in

working towards 'total' rehabilitation

-

DEDICATED ACTION

Vivek Kumar Agrawal

State Disability Commissioner,

Government o(Chattisgarh

Nirmala P.C.O., Bania Para, Durg,

Chattisgarh - 49 I 00 I. Tel.: 91-788-

2 2/ 28 6 I. E -ma il:

commissioner _disabilities_cg@ahoo .com

At the age of 6, Vivek

Kumar Agrawal slowly

started losing vision, but the

steadily progressing disability did not

deter him from pursuing his studies. He

obtained a Bachelor's degree in

Commerce as well as a degree in Law.

At the age of 25, he had a total loss of

vision. It was his own determination and

the support of his wife Jyoti that steered

him to organising people with

disabilities, anC: fighting for their rights.

As the Founder President of the

Disabled Welfare Society, he was

instrumental in putting pressure on the

government to implement the 3%

reservation in jobs for disabled people.

As a result, many disabled people got

I

suitable employment in Chattisgarh.

In recognition of his good work, the

government of Chattisgarh appointed

him as the State Commissioner for

Disabled People.

On Vivek's recommendation, the

govern ment of Chattisgarh has

increased the 3% quota for people with

disabilit ies in jobs (as mandated under

The Disability Act 1995) to 6%! More

than 550 disabled persons have already

been gainfully employed. Another

unique initiative ofVivek was to motivate

the management of the Bhilai Steel Plant

to allot plots to 200 disabled people. He

has now been asked by the Governor of

the state to start an industry -

comprising solely of workers with

disability - which would be a model not

only for Chattisgarh, but for the entire

country.

Vivek is also an accomplished artist

and singer, and performs with an

orchestra composed of visually impaired

persons.

DEDICATED ACTION

The State Commissioner

for Disability, he believes in

workingtowards 'total' rehabilitation

Vivek Kumar Agrawal State Disability Commissioner, Government of Chattisgarh

Nirmala P.C.O., Bania Para, Durg, Chattisgarh - 491 001. Tel.: 91-7882 2 1 2 8 6 1 . E - m a i l : commissioner_disabilities_cg@yahoo.com

A t the age of 6, V i v e k K u m a r A g r a w a l s l o w l y s t a r t e d los ing v i s i o n , bu t t h e

steadi ly p rogress ing disabi l i ty did n o t d e t e r h im f r o m pursu ing his s tud ies . H e o b t a i n e d a B a c h e l o r ' s d e g r e e in C o m m e r c e as w e l l as a degree in Law.

A t t h e age of 2 5 , he had a to ta l loss o f v i s ion . It w a s his o w n d e t e r m i n a t i o n and the s u p p o r t of his w i f e Jyot i t ha t s t e e r e d h i m t o o r g a n i s i n g p e o p l e w i t h disabi l i t ies , and f ighting f o r t h e i r r ights .

A s t h e F o u n d e r P re s iden t of t h e D i s a b l e d W e l f a r e S o c i e t y , he w a s i n s t rumenta l in put t ing p r e s s u r e o n t h e g o v e r n m e n t t o i m p l e m e n t t h e 3% r e s e r v a t i o n in j obs f o r d isabled peop le . A s a re su l t , many d isabled peop le got

su i table e m p l o y m e n t in C h a t t i s g a r h .

In recogn i t ion o f his good w o r k , t h e g o v e r n m e n t o f C h a t t i s g a r h appo in ted h im as t h e State C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r D i sab led Peop le .

O n V i vek ' s r e c o m m e n d a t i o n , t h e g o v e r n m e n t o f C h a t t i s g a r h h a s i nc reased t h e 3% q u o t a fo r peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies in jobs (as manda ted u n d e r T h e Disab i l i ty A c t 1 9 9 5 ) t o 6%! M o r e than 5 5 0 disabled p e r s o n s have a l ready b e e n ga in fu l l y e m p l o y e d . A n o t h e r un ique init iat ive of V i v e k w a s t o m o t i v a t e t h e m a n a g e m e n t o f t h e Bhilai Stee l P lant t o a l lot p lots t o 2 0 0 disabled peop le . H e has n o w been asked by t h e G o v e r n o r o f t h e s t a te t o s t a r t an i n d u s t r y c o m p r i s i n g so le ly o f w o r k e r s w i t h disabi l i ty - w h i c h w o u l d be a m o d e l n o t on ly fo r C h a t t i s g a r h , bu t f o r t h e en t i r e coun t r y .

V i v e k is a lso an a c c o m p l i s h e d a r t i s t and s inger , and p e r f o r m s w i t h an o r c h e s t r a c o m p o s e d o f v isual ly impa i red p e r s o n s .

commissioner_disabilities_cg@yahoo.com

I

:

, '

I "'

:

,,

~

..•. J

I

\\ When indeed s-ha I we

earn that we are a

re ated one to the

othe~ that we are a

members- of one body? 11

1,..-

1,

II

1,

I

I

11

r

"When i n d e e d shal' we learn t h a t we are all

r e a t e a one to the o t h e r , t h a t we a r e all members of one body?"

-Helen Keller

~ - -

TARTING SMALl

This V r: ., V • "'

organisation puts into

practice a unique and sustainable

model/or productive se{f

employment

B-11500,JanakPuri, NewDe/hi- I /0058. Tel.:91-1 l-

25597 J 28 . E-ma il: fod@vsnl.net,

fod_delhi@yahoo.com

Founded in 1992, the Family of

Disa bled (FOD) believes th at

entrepreneurship offers great scope for

persons with disabilities, especially those

who are economically disadvantaged.

It all started in 1993, when FOD

helped Jitender Kumar, a victim of

I

terrorism in Punjab, to open a snacks

stall with a small amount of Rs. 2,500/-.

Jitender made a success of it, and today

has two children and his own house.

Thus was launched the Apna Rozgar

Sch~me, wherein FOD counsels and

provides soft loans to economically

disadvantaged persons with disabilities

to start 'micro' enterprises such as

kiosks, magazine vending, candle making,

electronics, cycle repair and catering,

etc. · FOO has, till today, helped I 18

'Apna Rozgar' entrepreneurs to start

their own business', with a phenomenal This

organisationputs into

practice a unique and sustainable

model for productive self

employment

STARTING SMALL

Family of Disabled B,-1/500, Janak Puri, New Delhi - 110 058. Tel.: 91-1125597328. E-mail: fod@vsnl.net, fod_delhi@yahoo.com

F o u n d e d in 1 9 9 2 , the Fami ly o f D i s a b l e d ( F O D ) b e l i e v e s t h a t e n t r e p r e n e u r s h i p of fers g rea t s c o p e fo r p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies , espec ia l ly t h o s e w h o a re e c o n o m i c a l l y d i sadvantaged .

It all s t a r t e d in 1 9 9 3 , w h e n F O D he lped J i t ende r K u m a r , a v i c t i m o f

t e r r o r i s m in Punjab , t o o p e n a snacks stall w i t h a smal l a m o u n t o f Rs. 2 , 5 0 0 / - . J i t e n d e r m a d e a succes s o f it, and today has t w o ch i ld ren and his o w n h o u s e .

T h u s w a s l aunched t h e A p n a R o z g a r S c h e m e , w h e r e i n F O D counse l s and p rov ides so f t loans t o e c o n o m i c a l l y d isadvantaged p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies t o s t a r t ' m i c r o ' e n t e r p r i s e s such as k i o s k s , magaz ine vend ing , cand le mak ing , e l e c t r o n i c s , cyc le repa i r and ca te r ing , e t c . F O D has , t i l l today , he lped 118 ' A p n a R o z g a r ' e n t r e p r e n e u r s t o s t a r t t h e i r o w n bus iness ' , w i t h a p h e n o m e n a l

mailto:fod@vsnl.netmailto:fod_delhi@yahoo.com

I ~'

success rate of 84%! 54 of them have been able to open their own bank accounts, and 30 earn more than Rs. 6,000/- a month.

Today, after its pioneering effort, the Apna Rozgar Scheme is we ll recognised among rehabilitation centres, hospitals and NGOs, who refer cases for selfemployment to FOO.

FOO also helps persons with disabilities to get placements in NGOs and private sector companies. Till now, IO people have been successfully placed, enabling them to become self-reliant.

The Voice, brought out biannually by FOO, and distributed in India and abroad, is one of the few publications in India on

issues concerning disability. Presented in an interesting magazine format, The Voice, with the latest information and educative material has been able to fill a large void in this area.

For a few years now, FOO has also taken upon itself the task of promoting artists with different disabi lities to find expression. This is done through reproduction of their work on greeting cards and by holding exhibitions and sales of their work. This has directly benefited 27 artists. Yashpal Chandrakar, whose name was recommended by FOO, will be the only artist from India selected for the lnt~rnational Very Special Arts Festival, to be held in Washington DC, USA, in 2004.

succes s ra te of 84%! 54 o f t h e m have been able t o o p e n t h e i r o w n bank a c c o u n t s , and 3 0 e a r n m o r e than Rs. 6 , 0 0 0 / - a m o n t h .

Today , a f te r its p ionee r ing e f fo r t , t h e A p n a R o z g a r S c h e m e is we l l r ecogn i sed a m o n g rehabi l i ta t ion c e n t r e s , hosp i ta l s and N G O s , w h o re fe r cases f o r self-e m p l o y m e n t t o F O D .

F O D a l s o he lp s p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies t o get p l a cement s in N G O s and pr i va te s e c t o r c o m p a n i e s . T i l l n o w , 10 peop le have been success fu l l y p laced , enabl ing t h e m t o b e c o m e se l f- re l iant .

The Voice, b rought o u t biannual ly by F O D , and d i s t r ibu ted in India and a b r o a d , is o n e of the f e w publ icat ions in India o n

issues c o n c e r n i n g disabil ity. P r e s e n t e d in an in te res t ing magaz ine f o r m a t , The Voice, w i t h t h e la tes t i n fo rmat ion and educat i ve mater ia l has been able t o fill a large vo id in th is a r e a .

F o r a f e w yea r s n o w , F O D has a l so t aken upon itself t h e t a sk o f p r o m o t i n g a r t i s t s w i t h d i f ferent disabi l i t ies t o f ind e x p r e s s i o n . T h i s is d o n e t h r o u g h r e p r o d u c t i o n o f t h e i r w o r k o n greet ing ca rds and by hold ing exh ib i t i ons and sales o f t h e i r w o r k . T h i s has d i rec t l y benef i ted 2 7 a r t i s t s . Yashpal C h a n d r a k a r , w h o s e n a m e w a s r e c o m m e n d e d by F O D , w i l l be t h e on ly a r t i s t f r o m India se l ec ted f o r t h e In te rna t iona l V e r y Specia l A r t s Fes t i va l , t o be held in W a s h i n g t o n D C , U S A , in 2 0 0 4 .

One of India's largest public

sector companies

takes its role asa

concerned c01porate

citizen very seriously

ROLE MOI)EL

htndustan Petroleum r (

Petroleum House, 17, J. Tata Road, Churchgate, Mumbai - 400 020. Tel.: 9/-22-22023677, 2202615 I. E-mail: /almb@hpcl.co.in

What most people in India do know is that Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) is one of India's largest public sector companies in the area of refining and marketing of petroleum products. Many people also , know that it is one of India's most

I

profitable and well managed companies.

What most people do not realise is just how seriously HPCL takes its role of social responsibility and welfare activities for people with disabilities.

Consider this: HPCL is one of the rare organisations which has identified

. and reserved various posts for persons with disabilities. Today, out of a total workforce of 11 ,230 people, 135 or a full

A ROLE MODEL

One of India's largest public

sector companies

takes its role as a

concerned corporate

citizen very seriously

Hindus t an P e t r o l e u m Corporation Ltd. Petroleum House, 17, J. Tata Road, Churchgate,Mumbai - 400 020. Tel.: 9 1 - 2 2 - 2 2 0 2 3 6 7 7 , 22026151. E-mail: lalmb@hpcl.co.in

W h a t m o s t peop le in India d o k n o w i s t h a t H i n d u s t a n P e t r o l e u m C o r p o r a t i o n L t d . ( H P C L ) is o n e o f India's la rgest publ ic s e c t o r c o m p a n i e s in the a rea of ref in ing and marke t i ng o f p e t r o l e u m p r o d u c t s . Many peop le also k n o w tha t it is o n e o f India's m o s t

prof i tab le and we l l managed c o m p a n i e s .

W h a t m o s t peop le d o n o t rea l i se is j u s t h o w se r ious l y H P C L t akes its ro le o f s o c i a l r e s p o n s i b i l i t y a n d w e l f a r e act iv i t ies f o r peop le w i t h disabi l i t ies .

C o n s i d e r th i s : H P C L is o n e o f t h e r a r e o rgan i sa t ions w h i c h has ident i f ied and r e s e r v e d v a r i o u s pos t s f o r p e r s o n s w i t h disabi l i t ies . Today, o u t o f a to ta l w o r k f o r c e o f 1 1 , 2 3 0 peop le , 135 o r a full

mailto:lalmb@hpcl.co.in

-~

1.2% are persons with visual, orthopaedic and hearing impairments!

HPCL has also instituted and awarded perpetual scholarships - Rs. I 0,000/- per student - for visually impaired students, in association with the National Association for the Blind (NAB). In course of this association, HPCL has sponsored more than 120 visually impaired students, and has also provided Braille kits and text books, as well as equipment for production of talking books to NAB, Mumbai.

More examples of HPCL being a company with a social conscience: it has awarded 225 scholarships to persons with disability, ranging from primary to post-graduation education. It has, on an ongoing basis, generously provided for

computers , equipment for physiotherapy and therapeutic care, ambulance vans, school uniforms & bags, photocopier machines, tool kits and sewing machines for vocational training, etc. to a number of NGOs, rehabilitation centres and schools all over India!

HPCL has also been responsible for corrective surgeries for visually and orthopaedically impaired persons, including more than I 00 polio surgeries. It has also constructed multi-utility buildings, hostels, kitchens and dining halls at Coimbatore, Nagpur and Aurangabad.

Truly, HPCL is the ideal role model of an organisation which takes its dual responsibilities - corporate and social -seriously. And does well at both!

I

1.2% a r e p e r s o n s w i t h v i s u a l , o r t h o p a e d i c and hear ing i m p a i r m e n t s !

H P C L has a l s o i n s t i t u t e d a n d a w a r d e d pe rpe tua l s cho la r sh ips - Rs. 1 0 , 0 0 0 / - p e r s t u d e n t - f o r v isual ly impa i red s tuden t s , in a s soc ia t ion w i t h t h e Na t iona l A s s o c i a t i o n f o r t h e B l ind ( N A B ) . In c o u r s e o f th is a s soc i a t ion , H P C L has s p o n s o r e d m o r e than 120 v isual ly impa i red s tuden t s , and has a lso p rov ided Bra i l le kits and t e x t b o o k s , as w e l l as e q u i p m e n t f o r p r o d u c t i o n o f ta lk ing b o o k s t o N A B , Mumbai .

M o r e e x a m p l e s o f H P C L being a c o m p a n y w i t h a soc ia l c o n s c i e n c e : it has a w a r d e d 2 2 5 scho la r sh ips t o p e r s o n s w i t h disabil ity, ranging f r o m p r i m a r y t o post -graduat ion e d u c a t i o n . It has , o n an ongoing basis , gene rous l y p rov ided f o r

c o m p u t e r s , e q u i p m e n t f o r phys io therapy and t h e r a p e u t i c c a r e , a m b u l a n c e vans , s c h o o l un i fo rms & bags, p h o t o c o p i e r m a c h i n e s , t o o l k i ts and sew ing mach ines f o r voca t iona l t ra in ing , e t c . t o a n u m b e r o f N G O s , rehab i l i ta t ion c e n t r e s and s c h o o l s all o v e r India!

H P C L has a lso been respons ib le f o r c o r r e c t i v e su rge r i e s fo r v isua l ly and o r t h o p a e d i c a l l y i m p a i r e d p e r s o n s , inc luding m o r e than 100 po l io su rge r i e s . It has a l so c o n s t r u c t e d mult i -ut i l i ty bui ldings, hos te l s , k i t chens and dining hal ls a t C o i m b a t o r e , N a g p u r a n d A u r a n g a b a d .

T ru ly , H P C L is t h e ideal ro l e m o d e l o f an organ i sa t ion w h i c h t akes its dual respons ib i l i t ies - c o r p o r a t e and soc ia l ser ious ly . A n d does w e l l a t b o t h !

A company that provides

'more than equal' work

opportunities to mentally challenged

people

SETTING AN EXAMPLE

Sharayu Precision D-3180, M.I.D.C., O,inchwad, Pune-4/ I 0/9. Tel.: 9/-

20-74 75298/5299. E-mail: gatiman@vsnl.com

As many as 17 out of a total of 32

employees at Sharayu Precision, Pune,

are very special people. Special, not

because they are mentally challenged but

bec ause of their unflagging

determination to fight the odds and

stand on their own feet.

Guiding them all the way is the

I

Managing Partner of the company,

Subhash Chuttar. For Subhash, the

joorney began at home. He recalls that

his son, Ajay, was mentally challenged

but always a very bright child with a

sharp memory, and a lot of potential.

Then, seventeen years ago, Subhash

came across mentally challe nged

Suryakant Yadav, and got him into his

factory. Subhash trained him to work on

assembling jobs and today, Yadav

independently supports a family of four,

and Ajay, his son, is proficient in helping

his father with work related to the excise department!

SETTING AN EXAMPLE

A company that provides

'more than equal' work

opportunitiesto mentally challenged

people

Sharayu Precision D-3/80, M.I.D.C., Chinchwad, Pune- 411 019. Tel.: 9120-747529815299. E-mail: gatiman@vsnl.com

A s many as 17 o u t o f a to ta l o f 3 2 e m p l o y e e s a t Sharayu P r e c i s i o n , P u n e , a re v e r y spec ia l peop le . Spec ia l , n o t because t h e y a re menta l l y cha l lenged but b e c a u s e o f t h e i r u n f l a g g i n g d e t e r m i n a t i o n t o fight t h e odds and s tand on t h e i r o w n feet .

Gu id ing t h e m all t h e w a y is t h e

Managing P a r t n e r o f t h e company , Subhash C h u t t a r . F o r Subhash , t h e j o u r n e y began at h o m e . H e recal ls tha t his s o n , Ajay, w a s menta l l y cha l lenged but a lways a v e r y br ight chi ld w i t h a sharp m e m o r y , and a lot o f potent ia l .

T h e n , s e v e n t e e n y e a r s ago, Subhash c a m e a c r o s s m e n t a l l y c h a l l e n g e d S u r y a k a n t Yadav, and got h im into his f ac to ry . Subhash t r a i n e d h im t o w o r k o n a s s e m b l i n g j o b s a n d today , Y a d a v independent l y s u p p o r t s a family of four , and Ajay, his s o n , is p ro f i c i en t in helping his f a the r w i t h w o r k re la ted t o t h e e x c i s e d e p a r t m e n t !

mailto:gatiman@vsnl.com

I

l

After Yadav, Subhash went on to build Sharayu's workforce of mentally challenged persons, who are now engaged in jobs like assembling, drilling, rivetting, greasing, polishing, packing and readying material for dispatch. 'They have the potential to be productive; it is up to us to recognise this and provide them an opportunity", he says.

The company's contribution does not end at just providing employment. The camaraderie and affection levels at the unit are also very high. Everyone's birthday is celebrated, the annual picnic is remembered for months, and in times of illness, the workers are given medical attention and are well looked after. "All the mentally challenged employees of Sharayu are permanent employees, and wi ll always be with me", says Subhash. In

fact, even in times when orders are low, the organisation manages to find them some job or the other to keep them productively engaged.

Because of this excellent experience with a mentally challenged workforce, Sharayu now plans to set up _a Training Centre for 40 such people to prepare them for employment with other companies: Subhash also actively persuades other companies to employ such persons.

What Subhash strongly felt about and translated into concrete action, was to enable mentally challenged persons to make a contribution. The only thing needed was an understanding on the part of society. In turn, he has made society proud ofSharayu!

A f t e r Yadav, Subhash w e n t o n t o build Sharayu's w o r k f o r c e o f menta l ly cha l lenged p e r s o n s , w h o a re n o w engaged in jobs l ike assembl ing , dr i l l ing, r i ve t t ing , greas ing , pol i sh ing , pack ing and ready ing mater ia l f o r d i spatch . " T h e y have t h e potent ia l t o be p r o d u c t i v e ; it is up t o us t o recogn i se th is and p rov ide t h e m an o p p o r t u n i t y " , he says.

T h e company ' s c o n t r i b u t i o n does n o t end at jus t p rov id ing e m p l o y m e n t . T h e c a m a r a d e r i e and af fect ion levels a t t h e uni t a re a lso v e r y high. E v e r y o n e ' s b i r thday is c e l e b r a t e d , t h e annual p icn ic is r e m e m b e r e d fo r m o n t h s , and in t i m e s of i l lness , the w o r k e r s a re given medica l a t t en t ion and a re we l l l o o k e d after . "A l l t h e menta l ly cha l lenged e m p l o y e e s o f Sharayu a re p e r m a n e n t e m p l o y e e s , and w i l l a lways be w i t h m e " , says Subhash . In

fact , even in t i m e s w h e n o r d e r s a re low , t h e organ isa t ion manages t o f ind t h e m s o m e job o r t h e o t h e r t o keep t h e m produc t i ve l y engaged.

Because o f th is e x c e l l e n t e x p e r i e n c e w i t h a menta l l y cha l lenged w o r k f o r c e , Sharayu n o w plans t o se t up a T ra in ing C e n t r e f o r 4 0 s u c h peop le t o p r e p a r e t h e m f o r e m p l o y m e n t w i t h o t h e r c o m p a n i e s . S u b h a s h a l s o a c t i v e l y pe r suades o t h e r c o m p a n i e s t o e m p l o y such p e r s o n s .

W h a t Subhash s t rongly fe l t a b o u t and t r ans l a ted in to c o n c r e t e a c t i o n , w a s t o enable menta l l y cha l lenged p e r s o n s t o make a c o n t r i b u t i o n . T h e on ly th ing needed w a s an under s tand ing o n t h e p a r t of soc iety . In t u r n , he has made soc ie t y p r o u d o f Sha rayu !

THE DISABLED-FRIENDLY CORPORATE LOGO

I

T he disabled-friendly corporate logo was first conceived in 1999. Over the years, it has gained more and more acceptance amongst companies. One of the main reasons for this has been the greater awareness of rights of people with disability. However, this movement has taken place especially amongst responsible and socially committed organisations, and needs to percolate down to others as well. Our main objective of conceiving and promoting the logo was - and remains - that companies feel proud of the opportunity to be associated with it.

Graphically, the logo seeks to symbolise a partnership between corporates and the disabled community. The handshake represents equality and is a gesture of affirmation; it shows that the disabled person is not alone. In terms of action, what is sought to be achieved is that companies proactively provide a discrimination and barrier free work environment, and people with disability use their talent to productively contribute towards the growth of the organisation.

The logo uses the international colours representing disability: blue and yellow.

As a supporter of the disability sector, we ask that you actively try and promote the logo - and what it stands for - at your own workplace, and also influence others to do the same.

THE DISABLED-FRIENDLY CORPORATE LOGO

The d isabled-f r iendly c o r p o r a t e logo w a s f i r s t c o n c e i v e d in 1999 . O v e r t h e y e a r s , it has gained m o r e and m o r e a c c e p t a n c e amongs t c o m p a n i e s . O n e o f the main r ea sons f o r th is has been t h e g r e a t e r a w a r e n e s s o f r ights o f peop le w i t h disabil ity. H o w e v e r , th is m o v e m e n t has t a k e n p lace espec ia l ly amongs t respons ib le and socia l ly c o m m i t t e d o rgan i sa t ions , and needs t o p e r c o l a t e d o w n t o o t h e r s as w e l l . O u r main ob jec t i ve o f conce i v ing and p r o m o t i n g t h e logo w a s - and rema ins - tha t c o m p a n i e s fee l p r o u d o f t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o be as soc ia ted w i t h it.

Graph ica l l y , t h e logo s e e k s t o s ymbo l i s e a p a r t n e r s h i p b e t w e e n c o r p o r a t e s and t h e disabled commun i t y . T h e handshake r e p r e s e n t s equal i ty and is a ges tu re o f a f f i rmat ion ; it s h o w s tha t t h e disabled p e r s o n is n o t a lone . In t e r m s o f a c t i o n , w h a t is sought t o be ach ieved is tha t c o m p a n i e s p roac t i ve ly p rov ide a d i s c r im ina t ion and b a r r i e r f r ee w o r k e n v i r o n m e n t , and peop le w i t h disabi l i ty use t h e i r t a l en t t o p roduc t i ve l y c o n t r i b u t e t o w a r d s t h e g r o w t h o f t h e o rgan i sa t ion .

T h e logo uses the in te rna t iona l c o l o u r s r ep re sen t i ng disabi l i ty : b lue and ye l low .

A s a s u p p o r t e r o f the disabi l i ty sec to r , w e ask tha t y o u act ive ly t r y and p r o m o t e t h e logo - and w h a t it s tands f o r - a t y o u r o w n w o r k p l a c e , and a lso in f luence o t h e r s t o d o t h e s a m e .

I

"We could never learn to be

brave and patient, if there

were only jo s in , the worl ."

- Belen Keller

"We could never learn to be

brave and patient, if there

were only joys in the world."

- Helen Keller

Since its inception in

1999, the annual

NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller

Awards have become the

national benchmark in

recognising commendable

work being done in the

area of disability

THE NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARD WINNERS - PREVIOUS1YEARS

1999

INDIVIDUALS

• Dr. A K. Banerjee Choudhury • Dr. Bhushan Punani

• Georgekutty Kareparampil • Nisheeth P. Mehta

• Ramesh Mohan Gupta • Rashmi Paliwal • Dr. Uma Tuli

ORGANISATIONS

• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited • lnfar (India) Limited

• Titan Industries Limited

2000

INDIVIDUALS

• Dilip Deshpande • Jayshree Raveendran

• Kaushik Das • Meenakshi Balasubramanian

• Lion Dr. P. Athiannan • Pradeep Gupta

• Subhash Anant Datrange

ORGANISATIONS

• Jyoti Limited • Maximising Employment to Serve

the Handicapped (MESH) • Tata Tea Limited

THE NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARD WINNERS - PREVIOUS YEARS

Since its inception in

1999, the annual

NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller

Awards have become the

national benchmark in

recognisingcommendable

work being done in the

area of disability

1999

INDIVIDUALS

• D r . A . K. Bane r j ee C h o u d h u r y • D r . Bhushan Punani

• G e o r g e k u t t y K a r e p a r a m p i l • N i s h e e t h P. M e h t a

• Ramesh M o h a n G u p t a • Rashmi Pal iwal

• D r . Uma Tul i

ORGANISATIONS

• B h a r a t P e t r o l e u m C o r p o r a t i o n L i m i t e d • In far ( India) L i m i t e d

• T i t a n Indus t r ies L i m i t e d

2000

INDIVIDUALS • D i l ip D e s h p a n d e

• J aysh ree R a v e e n d r a n • Kaush ik D a s

• Meenaksh i Ba lasubraman ian • L ion D r . P. A t h i a n n a n

• P r a d e e p G u p t a • Subhash A n a n t D a t r a n g e

ORGANISATIONS • Jyot i L im i ted

• Max im i s ing E m p l o y m e n t t o S e r v e t h e H a n d i c a p p e d ( M E S H )

• T a t a T e a L im i ted

2001

INDIVIDUALS

• Dr. Amit Chatterjee • Dr. Armaity S. Desai

• K. Ramkrishna • Madhu Singha! • Paul Y. Samuel

• Prof. Singanapalli Balaram • Dr. Syed lshtiaq Haider

ORGANISATIONS

• Cummins India Limited • Mindtree Consulting Private .Limited • Schizophrenia Research Foundation

2002

INDIVIDUALS

• Damodar Thanvi • Dinesh Gupta • Ketna Mehta

• P. Suryanarayana • P.R. Mehta

• Poonam Natarajan • Sister Rosario Lopez

ORGANISATIONS

• Natio nal Thermal Power Corporation • Sakthi Trading Company

• Silence

I

/tis with a sense of pride thatweat NCPEDP reaffirm our commitment to honouring individuals and organisations who selflessly work towards a more equitable and just society

2001

INDIVIDUALS • D r . A m i t C h a t t e r j e e • D r . A r m a i t y S. D e s a i

• K. R a m k r i s h n a • Madhu Singhal • Paul Y. Samue l

• Prof . Singanapall i Ba l a ram • Dr . Syed Isht laq H a i d e r

ORGANISATIONS • C u m m i n s India L i m i t e d

• M i n d t r e e C o n s u l t i n g P r i va te L i m i t e d • S c h i z o p h r e n i a R e s e a r c h Founda t ion

2002

INDIVIDUALS • D a m o d a r T h a n v i

• D i n e s h G u p t a • K e t h a M e h t a

• P. Su ryana rayana • P. R. M e h t a

• P o o n a m Nata ra j an • S i s te r R o s a r i o L o p e z

ORGANISATIONS • N a t i o n a l T h e r m a l P o w e r C o r p o r a t i o n

• Sakth i T rad ing C o m p a n y • S i l ence

It is with a sense of pride that we at NCPEDP reaffirm our commitment to honouringindividuals and organisationswho selflessly work towards a more equitable and just society

~ National Centre for Promotion of ~ Employment for Disabled People

A-77, South Extension Part 11, New Delhi 110 049 Tel.: (0 I I) 26265647, 26265648. Fax: (0 I I) 26265649 E-mails: ncpedp@vsnl.com and pncpedp@vsnl.com

~ Websites: www.ncpedp.org and www.dnis.org

I

Shell National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People A - 7 7 , Sou th E x t e n s i o n P a r t I I , N e w D e l h i 110 0 4 9

Te l . : ( 0 1 1 ) 2 6 2 6 5 6 4 7 , 2 6 2 6 5 6 4 8 . F a x : ( 0 1 1 ) 2 6 2 6 5 6 4 9

E-mai ls : n c p e d p @ v s n l . c o m and p n c p e d p @ v s n l . c o m

W e b s i t e s : w w w . n c p e d p . o r g and w w w . d n i s . o r g

Shell

http:www.dnis.orghttp:www.ncpedp.orgmailto:pncpedp@vsnl.commailto:ncpedp@vsnl.com

THE FIFTH NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARDS INTRODUCTION MESSAGEVikram Singh MehtaSonia Gandhi

THE 5TH NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE Subodh Bhargava Pradeep Gupta Alana Officer Ashok B. Verma Dr. Shailaja D. Sharma

SPEARHEADING CHANGE Atul Desai

PIONEERING HU MANITARIAN LAWS Colin Gonsalves

EMPOWERING THE VISUALLY IMPAIREDJawahar Lal Kaul

ADVOCATING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES Nara Nageswarrao

BUILDING A BARRIER FREE .ENVIRONMENT Papiya Sarkar

INNOVATIVE USE OF CRAFTRam Dayal Sharma

MAKING A DIFFERENCESubhash V. Dhavale

A QUARTER CENTURY OF SUCCESSSushila Bohra

DEDICATED ACTIONVivek Kumar Agrawal

STARTING SMALL Family of Disabled

A ROLE MODEL Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd.

SETTING AN EXAMPLESharayu Precision

THE DISABLED-FRIENDLY CORPORATE LOGO THE NCPEDP-SHELL HELEN KELLER AWARD WINNERS - PREVIOUS YEARS1999 INDIVIDUALS ORGANISATIONS

2000 INDIVIDUALS ORGANISATIONS

2001 INDIVIDUALS ORGANISATIONS

2002 INDIVIDUALS ORGANISATIONS