The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was the biggest event during this quarter. JVS, in collaboration with local CSOs and other Representative Organizations and Governments, organized Disability Day celebrations at 63 locations in December 2023. A total of 7752 persons, including persons with disabilities, parents, and other stakeholders participated in these events with colourful programmes such as sharing successful life stories, awareness programmes, medical certification camps, sports and cultural programmes. The events witnessed encouraging participation of many dignitaries, including Members of Legislative Assemblies, Deputy Collectors, Chief Medical Officers, District Education Officers, Teachers, Block Development Officers, etc. These events have enabled the persons with disabilities to strengthen their unity in DPOs and build solidarity for their rights and entitlements.  

JVS has been spearheading a programme on Inclusive Development of Children and Youngsters with Disabilities in 14 states in North India focusing on the overall rehabilitation of over 6000 children with disabilities for the past two decades and more.

In 2023, this programme has directly impacted the lives of 5619 children across 60 locations in 14 states with the support of 127 field facilitators and in collaboration with 60 local CSOs. At the end of the year, we organized two regional gatherings with field facilitators and CSO heads to take stock of the effectiveness of the programme as well as to gain knowledge for effective fieldwork.

The first gathering was held on December 13-15, 2023 in Varanasi, and the second on December 17-19, 2023 in Kolkata. A total of 101 participants participated in these gatherings. Mr. Satish Kumar Singh, Senior Advisor- Centre for Health and Social Justice, Mr. Mohd Zeeshan, Founder-YES Foundation, Ms. Shampa Sengupta, Director-Sruti Disability Rights Centre, and Ms. Gargi, Founder-Prajak, facilitated the different sessions on Gender, Child Rights, and Networking.

Feeling the need to create a stronger network of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations, the participants also deliberated on the formation of a network and drafted a vision statement and objectives of the Network and worked on strategies for engaging with stakeholders. This draft document is to be deliberated at local DPOs and the final document will be drafted at the regional meeting in early 2024.

In a joyous event, the students of Muskan Day Care came together to celebrate Diwali at the Jan Vikas Samiti premises. The festivity extended beyond the daycare, as Students from the tailoring and CCRT courses joined in the merriment.

Lamps Aglow with Learning: The young Students, under the guidance of Muskan Day Care, lit traditional lamps symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. This illuminating experience not only brightened the surroundings but also imparted a valuable lesson on the significance of Diwali.

Artistry in Rangoli: Creativity took centre stage as the Students showcased their artistic flair in crafting vibrant rangolis. They participated in creating these intricate designs and learned the delicate art of rangoli-making, adding a touch of tradition to the festive atmosphere.

Inclusive Celebration: The Diwali celebration extended its warmth to include the students from the tailoring and CCRT courses, fostering a sense of community and shared festivities. The diverse activities aimed to bridge gaps and enhance understanding among the Students.

Understanding Diwali’s Essence: Beyond the sparkle of lights and the colours of rangoli, the event provided a platform for the students to delve into the deeper significance of Diwali. Together, they absorbed the cultural and spiritual aspects, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the festival.

The Muskan Day Care Diwali celebration at Jan Vikas Samiti premises brought joy to the Students and served as a testament to the power of inclusive celebrations that transcend boundaries and bring communities together in the spirit of festivity.

We are thrilled to announce the grand inauguration of the Garv Se Centre, a vital initiative to empower disabled individuals aged 18 to 45 by providing them with essential training and connecting them to meaningful livelihood opportunities.

Collaboration: Jan Vikas Samiti & Enable India 

This remarkable endeavour results from a collaborative effort between Jan Vikas Samiti and Enable India, two organizations deeply committed to creating equal opportunities and a more inclusive society.

Our main guest for the inauguration was the Vice President of Jan Vikas Samiti, Father Subhash. We were honoured to have the State Manager of EnAble India, Mr Aashish Kumar, join us on this momentous occasion. Alongside them, our Assistant Director, Father Dayakar, and our dedicated staff, including Savitri and many others, contributed to the success of this event.

Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and inspiring stories as we embark on this journey to empower and uplift the lives of differently-abled individuals.

Let’s come together to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to shine!

Today, we had the pleasure of hosting 21 wonderful children from Bachpan Day Care, a Special School in Varanasi, for an eye-opening exposure visit to our Jan Vikas Samiti (JVS) campus.

Our mission at JVS is to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with special needs, and this collaboration was nothing short of heartwarming. The children from Bachpan Day Care had the opportunity to visit our Rehabilitation Centre and Muskan Day Care Centre, where they witnessed the inclusive culture we foster.

During their visit, we extended a warm welcome to the students and teachers of Bachpan Day Care and shared insights into the work we do at JVS through a captivating movie presentation on a projector. It was a fantastic way to introduce them to our mission and values.

But what truly made this collaboration mesmerizing was the interaction between the students of Muskan Day Care Centre and Bachpan Day Care. They came together, forging new friendships, and engaged in games that filled our campus with laughter and joy. It was a heartening sight to see these children bond and share their experiences.

At JVS, we believe in the power of unity and inclusion, and this collaboration exemplified that spirit. It’s heartening to witness the positive impact it had on everyone involved.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to share our journey with Bachpan Day Care, and we look forward to more such collaborations that spread love, laughter, and support among these amazing children.