Inclusive growth on May Day

Visual impairment was never an unconquerable hurdle for B. Karthi, who has been selling Benzoin resin, or sambrani, for 10 years now. However, with the help of good Samaritans like those from Padikkatugal, a volunteer-based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), life becomes easy for him, he says.

As part of the organisation’s May Day celebrations, the NGO honoured and helped some physically and mentally challenged people like B. Karthi by buying materials for their small business at Madurai Corporation’s Special Needs Park here on Tuesday.

“The aim is to empower people who are disadvantaged. If our small contribution can help them succeed in their business, we are willing to go a long way,” said S. Malaisamy, one of the core members of Padikkatugal, who contributed ₹10,000 for their welfare.

He says that with the growth of organisation, many people with impairments have approached them this year seeking help. “Our funds are usually crowd sourced. We put out a specific need on Facebook or WhatsApp and people from different parts of the world who have a connection to Madurai, contribute to us. It is interesting to see people come together for a cause,” he adds.

Recipients like Karthi say that aid from NGOs helps them connect with other people.

“Visually challenged people usually operate telephone booths or make wire chairs. However, both these things are now out of fashion. We have to keep adapting to the new changes. NGOs guide us through these changes smoothly and put us in touch with people who want our wares,” he says. R. Kamatchi agrees.

Kamatchi, whose husband has development disorder and sells pens at Mattuthavani M.G.R. Bus Stand, received pens worth ₹ 1,000 from the NGO.

She says, “When Labour Day promotes inclusive empowerment of people with disabilities, it becomes holistic. The government must learn from such organisations and help our businesses sail smoothly.”