Camp to give a helping hand to divyangs

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had coined a new term for such people – ‘Divyang’ (people with extraordinary capabilities) instead of ‘viklang’ (handicapped).

The organisers of the camp said they aimed to provide free artificial limbs and smart equipment to the differently-abled. As part of the event, doctors of Swami Dayanand Hospital provided free health checkups to divyangs.

There are several NGOs working for divyangs. One of them is Viklang Shahara Samiti, which provides insurance to physically-challenged people and spread awareness among them about new schemes such as ATM cards, bus pass and opening of bank accounts to name a few. 

It also provides training to divyangs in tailoring, mehendi, basic tally, beauty course and spoken English. The Samiti provides free schooling from Classes I-VIII and raises funds for divyangs’ marriage. 

Sarthak Education, another NGO working for the cause, provides a three-month training and placements to divyangs based on their skills, wherein each person gets an average package of Rs 12,000 to 15,000 per month.

Shashank, an ENT Specialist said:  “It is difficult for a person suffering from hearing impairment to lead a normal life, but 92 per cent of physically-challenged people have benefited through Divyang Assessment Camps.”

Anjali Kumar Sinha, an ortho specialist said: “We deal with many ortho cases such as polio and a few trauma injuries and genetic problems, but a campaign like this plays a positive role in the uplift of society”.

Ram Prakash, who lost sight in his right eye in 1980, has been facing many challenges in getting a job. 

Shubham aged five years is suffering from an ortho disease since birth. His father narrates how his son continues to faces discrimination in the society. Due to this disease, he is unable to move his limbs and perform the regular chores. Unable to consume solid food, he has been on a liquid diet since birth.

In most cases, disability is a hurdle in the progress of an individual. Most affected among them are the poor. This camps have effectively addressed their problems. These camps have ensured that maximum equipment and facilities are provided to differently-able people. 

But still a lot needs to be done to sensitise the society so that they are facilitated rather than discriminated against.