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Success & ABILITYIndia’s Cross-disability Magazine

April - June 2010Rs. 30

CENSUS 2011OUR TIME STARTSNOW!

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Success & ABILITY APR – JUN 2010 3

EDITOR: Jayshree Raveendran DEPUTY EDITOR: Gina JosephASSOCIATE EDITORS: Janaki Pillai, Priya Krishnaswamy, Valsala Menon, Kalpagam SarmaLAYOUT & DESIGN: R.G. Kishore KumarMARKETING: R.DhanyaILLUSTRATIONS: Farzana Cooper, Micheal MiliCREATIVE CONSULTANT: Anupama SurenderEXECUTIVE MEMBERS: Mr. C.K. Ranganathan, Ms. Leela Swamy, Ms. Revathy, Mr. S.Krishnaswamy, Ms. Jayshree Raveendran

CORRESPONDENTS: INDIA: BANGALORE: Gayatri Kiran Ph: 09844525045 Ali Khwaja Ph: 080 23330200NEW DELHI: Vasantha Patri Ph: 011 23382652J.K.Mehta Ph: 0124 2572612Navin Gulia Ph: 0124 2307931 BHUBANESHWAR: Dr. Sruti Mohapatra Ph: 0674 2313311 BHOPAL: Anil Mudgal Ph: 0755 2589168KATHUA (J&K): Manbir Sambyal Ph: 233914 ANANTNAG (J&K) Javed Ahmad Tak Ph: 01936 211363 U.S.A: Malathi Rajagopal10247, Fairway Drive, Ellicot City, MD 21042Anindya Bhattacharyya Helen Keller National Center, Sands Point, NY 11050PUBLISHERS: Ability Foundation EDITORIAL OFFICE: 28, Second Cross Street, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai 600 020, India. Tel/Fax : 91 44 2445 2400/2441 3013 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.abilityfoundation.org Published by Jayshree Raveendran on behalf of Ability Foundation, 27 Fourth Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai 600 020. Ph.: 91 44 2445 2400 Printed at Rathna Offset Printers, 40 Peters Road, Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014. Tel : 91 44 2813 2790 / 2813 1232.Rights and Permissions: No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or inclusion in any information storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission of Ability Foundation. Ability Foundation encourages dissemination of information and will normally grant permission promptly.

19 Cover Story An exhaustive report on Census 2011: a collaboration of articles thatdwells on the importance of the inclusion of persons with disabilities in theupcoming Census.30 Achievements Salil Chaturvedi shares a first time adventure and the thrill on sailing from Mumbai harbour to the shores of Goa.56 Spotlight A walk us through the new ITC Royal Gardenia luxury hotel in Bangalore that is totally barrier free and accessible for people with disabilities.

36 The CavinKare Ability Awards It was celebration time for everyone: the recipients, the participants and the audience.48 Caring Concerns Steria India, a leading IT enabled Steria India, a leading IT enabled its association with Ability Foundation and the journey towards becoming an equal opportunity employer50 Awareness Gayatri Kiran gives us a detailed insight into the Montessori Method of teaching that offers a broad vision of education as an aid to life.57 Movie Review “My Name Is Khan” a film truly worth watching, says Priya Krishnaswamy.59 People & Places Hari Adarsh Sripathi gives us a picturesque insight on the myriad sights and sounds of Berlin.61 Book Review Paresh Palicha reviews the book 'Arzee the Dwarf', in his inimitable style.62 Ponderings What is routine? A matter of comfort or habit? Wonders Meera Balachander.64 Flip Side Geeta Doctor's humorous and amusing take on the modern day global wedding.


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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESKFriends,

As we go to press, Census 2011 is about to begin in a phased manner across the country with the data collection for the National Population Register (NPR). Census 2011 is very significant to us in the disability sector. Our long felt grouse about inadequate accounting in the earlier Census should hopefully be well addressed this time.

Being 'fairly accounted', is sure to open up plethora of possibilities. More visibility and accurate population data makes possible government intervention at various levels and with this proactive action in adequate measures are bound to happen. This could well lead on to many things. We bring you an in-depth understanding of this massive counting effort.

This in fact, brings in a series of flashbacks to the way some of us doggedly worked for that itsy bitsy question on disability to figure in Census 2001… as well as our strengths at present when we are stronger by association and there is increased awareness (in the NGO sector itself) of each others' specific areas of disability… Certainly, it has been a meaningful and eventful decade from Census 2001 to Census 2011.

Having said this, the die-hard optimist that I am, the beauty of Life charms me. The things that have happened, by far outshine those that haven't. Indeed, in the more recent past, a strong wave of understanding of disability issues has come about. The government has – albeit slowly – and in some States – a trifle reluctantly, even – opened its doors to persons with disabilities. A point to applaud here is the budget presented by the Tamil Nadu Government this year, which revealed the State Government's strong inclination to become even more disabled friendly… launching a slew of benefits and creating a separate department for disability empowerment under the direct purview of the Chief Minister.

Again, commenting purely on the brighter side of things, it does seem that the disability sector in India never had it so good. We matter. We exist and therefore we are. We are citizens of this great country. Sure, we are still in want… but… we matter. We can make ourselves heard. Make no bones about that.

The world is one, people are one…Humanity is the same for you and me…Just as the storm and the gentle breeze are…In Life – no one is the giver or the receiver…Though during the journey of Life, our steps may sometimes falter…Day in and day out, the dawn breaks, flowers bloomThat's the way of nature and of the worldBeauty surrounds you and me alikeLike the gentle river and the mellow sea, We flow through life as a continuous movement of celebration…Reach out and embrace the new dawn…Let's remove barriers, let's celebrate Life…

These poignant lines written by Thamarai which were set to music by Srinivas for our CavinKare Ability Awards evening, reinforce everything that I truly believe in. All we need to do is reach out and embrace the new dawn, break barriers and flow through life, with our heads held high, as a continuous movement of celebration.

Jayshree Raveendran


[email protected]

NEWS & EVENTS

TechShare India 2010Media Partner: Ability FoundationTECHSHARE, conference-cum-exhibition on technology and the promotion of assistive technology for people with disabilities was held on February 15 and 16 at New Delhi. In Europe, Techshare has always been one of the biggest technology events to promote accessible technology for people with disabilities. It was brought to India by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (UK), Barrier Break Technologies and National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) with Ability Foundation as media partner.Techshare India highlighted the importance of implementing accessibility standards and complying with different accessibility laws. The exhibition showcased the role of technology in the lives of people with disabilities. One of the unique aspects of this conference was the experiential lab where any visitor could understand what an accessible world ought to be like. It contained devices that were completely accessible for everyone and made one truly realise how vast the technology of today really is.The two day exhibition and conference witnessed participation from more than 500 delegates from both government and non-government organisations, educational institutions and corporate sectors from across the globe. More than 50 speakers addressed issues related to accessibility standards and law. The exhibition had more than 40 stalls with a display of almost 100 different IT hardware and software products and services for people with disabilities. Some of the objectives of Techshare India was to create awareness about accessibility, build a platform for knowledge sharing and exploring assistive technology, which was successfully met in the two days. In the introductory session, Shilpi Kapoor of Barrier Break Technologies mentioned that this year's Techshare was aimed at 'bridging the barriers'. It worked as a perfect sequel to last year's Techshare, which was aimed at identifying these barriers. It was inaugurated by Shri Mukul Wasnik, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. In a very interesting speech, Mr.Wasnik emphasised on the need for accessibility. The government website for Social Justice is one of the few government websites that is completely accessible with large font, contrast, auditory descriptions, etc. The crux of the matter is now in bridging the gap between the government and the public with the help of technology. The conference was demarcated clearly into four parallel


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tracks. Track 1 covered Strategies for Inclusive Growth with topics such as Challenges of Web Accessibility and Standardization in Indian Languages, Touch Activated Audio Descriptive Tactile Models for Museum Exhibits etc. Track 2 focused on Empowerment for All that included in its purview, topics such as technology that can break the barriers of Deafness such as Multimedia Accessibility: Captioning, Audio Description, etc. The multimedia accessibility was a very interesting seminar, since one got to witness the process of captioning and audio description at first hand. Track 3 was all about unlocking the potential of technology and some of the main topics addressed in this track were the guidelines for Indian Government Websites and Advancements in Accessibility Technologies at IBM Research Labs. Track 4 took an interesting twist and consisted of workshops rather than paper presentations. The workshops ranged from a wide array of topics like open source tools for creating accessible books using DAISY software, creating accessible websites and empowering organisations to create an accessible format of information.

As these tracks were being conducted, byte sized sessions were also being conducted which lasted about 30 minutes but packed quite a punch in terms of content. Some of those topics included Mobile Phone Accessibility Solutions, Accessibility of Yahoo! Mail, Enhancing Employability, and introduction to various software like Dolphin, DAISY, JORDY (a digital telescope for the visually impaired.)

During the two days, one of the most enlightening conversations I had was with Mr. Stephen King of the World Blind Forum. He stressed again on the importance of technology in everybody's lives and just like Techshare India, a similar version has also been planned for China, Ghana and other countries. The main incentive of such an initiative is to encourage indigenous production of technology.

When it comes to systems being adapted to suit the people, the World Wide Web immediately figures as the most prominent form of technology that ought to be made accessible. In her presentation, Shilpi Kapoor stressed on a National Policy on Electronic Accessibility and how it is imperative that our country adopts and adapts international standards in technology which would be easier if done at the beginning of website development rather than as an add on at a later stage. This conference has merely created a buzz in the world of technology-friendly but still has a long way to go to make a visible impact said Ms.Kapoor. However, one would look for a more responsive participation from indigenous research agencies, who were conspicuously absent in this conference. Most technologies were showcased by international agencies, although it is a known fact that many Indian agencies work in the field of accessibility as well. Hence, the goal for the future techshares would be to increase the participation of Indian players.

Ms. Shanthi Raghavan of Enable India an organisation that works for employment of disabled persons commented that conferences as these raised awareness and this awareness makes us confident. “The fact that there is some technology out there that can help me achieve something I want to, will give me the confidence and that can boost my ambition to work further towards my goals. Knowledge, in this aspect, becomes a huge equaliser”, she said.

Techshare India 2010 has thus hit the nail right on the head, on raising awareness on the

availability of various technologies. This in turn will begin a process of dialectics where more people work to bring out more accessible technology. In the end, the world is not only getting more accessible but more aware as well.

- Vaishnavi venkatesh


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NEWS & EVENTS

AYJNIHH organises National Workshop on 'Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons with Hearing Handicapped’

Media Partner: Ability Foundation

A national workshop on “Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons with Hearing Handicapped” was organised by AYJNIHH on February 26 and 27 at Nagpur with Orange City College of Social Work, Nagpur as Local Partner. Ability Foundation was the Media Partner. The Workshop was attended by 118 delegates from Government and Non-Government organisations working in the field of Disability Rehabilitation across the country. The prime objective of the workshop was focused on creating awareness about various Articles of UNCRPD among the participants.

The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. N. Rathna, Former Director AYJNIHH, Mumbai and AIISH, Mysore. Shri R. Rangasayee, Director AYJNIHH, Mumbai in his introductory speech briefed the participants about UNCRPD and Expected Outcomes of the workshop. The issue on Women with Disabilities (Article – 6 of UNCRPD) was addressed by Dr. (Sr.) Rita Mary, Correspondent, Little Flower Convent for the Deaf, Chennai; Smt. Saraswathi Narayanswamy, Director, Balavidyalaya School for the Young Deaf Children Chennai, spoke on the issues pertaining to children with disabilities (Article – 7 of UNCRPD. Focussing on “Awareness raising “(Article – 8 of UNCRPD) Dr. Sanjay Ranade, HOD, Journalism, University of Mumbai spoke on the need to start long term and short term courses on Media and Disability Communication. The various issues pertaining to “access” in the areas of education, transport, information and Communication technology was dealt by Ms. Shilpi Kapoor, Managing Director, Barrier Break Technology; Shri P.M. Mathew, Computer Programmer, AYJNIHH, Mumbai and Dr. Hari Mahalingam, HOD, Chemical Technology, JIET, Guna. Dr. Varsha Gathoo, HOD, Education, AYJNIHH Mumbai dwelt on higher education for the hearing impaired, text book adoption, assessment strategies, teachers' training and development of curriculum frame work. The Workshop also included a demonstration of modification undertaken in the Aids & Appliances for independent living by Dr. A.D. Parikh, Asst Professor, B.M. Patil Medical College, Bijapur. The two speakers on Health (Article – 25 of UNCRPD) were Dr. Goswami, Faculty from AIISH, Mysore and Dr. Arun Agarwal, Addl. Director General of Health Services, Govt. Of. India, Dean, MAMC, New Delhi and Chairperson, National Programme on Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD). Dr. Geetha Mukundan, Dy. Director (Tech.), AYJNIHH, Mumbai and Shri Rajiv Jalvi, HOD. Audiology, AYJNIHH, Mumbai focused on High Risk Register and Appropriate Protocols in their presentation on Habilitation and Rehabilitation (Article – 26 of UNCRPD)

On the panel of the session of the “Work and Employment” (Article – 27 of UNCRPD) were Ms. Jayshree Raveendran, Executive Director, Ability Foundation, Chennai; Shri R. Bhattacharya, HOD, Socio-Economic Rehabilitation Dept AYJNIHH, Mumbai; Bro. C.A. Thomas, Director, Boys Town, Hyderabad and Dr. S.Z.H. Zaidi, Dy. Director, VRC, Mumbai. In the session on Statistics and Data Collection (Arrticle – 31), Shri R. Rangasayee Director, AYJNIHH, Mumbai, pointed out the importance of training for the personnel in methods of Data Collection in order to get more accurate and relevant information.

At the valedictory session, the highlights of the workshop were presented and the winners of the poster competition were felicitated following which was the address by Prof. Chandan Singh Rotele, President, Orange City College of Social Work, Dr Hari Mahalingam’s address as Guest of Honour and finally Dr Rathna's address.


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The 4th International Short Film Festival of India 2010Global Festival Partner: Ability FoundationISFFI 2010 was hosted over 20th and 21st of March at Albert Theatres, Chennai in the presence of Mr. Parithi Ellamvazhuthi, the honorable Minister for Information, Government of Tamil Nadu and a number of other dignitaries. Seventy short films from across the globe were screened during the two day festival and thousands of film lovers took part in the festival. The inaugural ceremony began with the honourable minister of information declaring open ISFFI 2010. The other guests of honour who participated in the inaugural ceremony were Rev. Joe Andrew, the Vice President of Don Bosco Institutions, Cinematographer & Filmmaker Rajiv Menon, Film Director & Editor B. Lenin, Director & Scriptwriter E. Ramadoss, Director Babu Sivan, Director Badri, Actor Arun Vijay, Actor Shakthi Vasu, Actor Mahendran and Ms. Jayshree Raveendran, Director of Ability Foundation, Chennai. The Ability Foundation is ISSFI's global festival partner and through out the festival, twenty films from Ability's '60 seconds to fame' competition were interspersed between screenings and were well received by the audience. There were 412 entries from 29 countries and 70 films were short listed for the final screening at the Festival. ISSF is an initiative of the Don Bosco Institute of Communicative Arts. The idea is to introduce short films of various genres from all over the globe to illustrate to film lovers the power of short films to deal with different themes and how these can become motivating, entertaining and instructive to the viewers. This was in collaboration with the information department, Government of Tamil Nadu and a number of media institutions and colleges both national and international. Thirty five movies were screened per day and it was a veritable feast for cinegoers. It was a mixed bouquet of Spanish, Australian, Polish, Indian, Australian and American films. The films ‘Accidental Art' by Peter Chombros, 'Dark Chocolate’ by Manchunadan, the French film Realisation by Quentin Detienne and an animated film 'Thomas comma' by Kimmelman were a few of the films which deserve special mention for their creativity and uniqueness of approach. All directors were awarded participation certificates. The first prize in the international category went to the Spanish film, 'Because they are things you never forget'. The

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second prize was awarded to yet another Spanish film, The Balcony Boy'. The third prize went to the film 'The day before yesterday'. In the national category, first prize was awarded to ‘Nadantha Kadhai’ by Pon Sudha. The second prize went to 'Not born heroes' directed by Visheshith from New Delhi. The third prize was awarded to 'Circle' directed by Santhosh Ram of Maharashtra. The award for best editing was bagged by Unconditional Love, directed by Navaneedha Krishnan from Chennai: best cinematography award went to 'Appa vandhar' directed by Venkatesh Babu; best creativity award to 'The stitches speak' directed by Nina Sambani and best screenplay award was bagged by 'The Jail' directed by Ajit Dasgupta.The prestigious audience choice award was presented to Mr. Irfan from Chennai for the film ‘Smile Please’.

ENABLE INDIA 2010 Media Partner: Ability Foundation

Utthan Prayash Foundation, organised a one day International conference at New Delhi on 10th March, 2010. The conference theme: Challenges of inclusive growth-empowering persons with disabilities.

After a welcome address by Mr Tulsi Das, President, Utthan Prayash Foundation, Mr A K Balayan of ONGC introduced the subject of providing employment to people with disability. He called upon society to take up the challenge of developing the ways and means to involve persons with disabilities (PD) in the mainstream of society

Ms Poonam Natarajan, Chairperson National Trust, in her address agreed that change of attitude is the first requirement and thereafter, providing opportunity. To achieve this objective, corporate sector needs to open out.

Shri Mukul Wasnik, Hon. Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment in his address said that more than making the physical environment barrier-free, public minds are to be made barrier-free. He mentioned a few areas which need the urgent attention of ministries concerned, such as changing building by-laws to make them barrier-free, provision of assistive devices at lower prices, manpower development; capacity development and R&D.

Tracing the issue of employment for persons with disabilities, Mr Javed Abidi of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment of Disabled People explained that it was only in 1977 that reservation of 3% and that also in category 'B' and 'C' of Govt. jobs was declared. By the early 90s when economy was opened out, government jobs had shrunk and the private sector had not come forward to provide jobs. Countries like Japan and China offer jobs for PD as ‘Punishment & Reward System' and ‘Incentive System' respectively.

Jayshree Raveendran of Ability Foundation focussed on the positive response from corporate sector in EmployABILITY job opportunities fairs organised annually by Ability Foundation, including the one it organised in New Delhi. Various areas covered for employment are Manufacturing, Publishing, FMCG, Hospitality, Banking & Insurance. Even at the first EmployABILITY held in 2004, candidates surprised employers with their high qualifications. Today, while there are employers coming forward, sometimes it is difficult to get the right candidates.

Ms Thilakam of ARUNIM, an entrepreneurship development initiative by National Trust registered in 2008 which is mainly concerned with marketing of products manufactured by NGOs working for those with autism, mental retardation, cerebral palsy and persons with multiple disabilities, called for empowering people with disabilities with gainful employment,


sheltered, supported or independent.

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CNN IBN7 super Idols 2010Knowledge Partner : Ability FoundationIBN7 Super Idols 2010, a series of profiles of people with disabilities from across India, was an initiative of IBN7, with Ability Foundation as knowledge partner. For us at Ability Foundation, it was significant that a mainstream television network had come forward to take this inclusive step. Speaking on the initiative, Ashutosh, Managing Editor, IBN7 said, “We at IBN7 are happy and proud to be associated with the Ability Foundation to salute these Super Idols of our society who have diverse adversities to emerge victorious even in the face of crippling disabilities. The exceptional work done by Ability Foundation in promoting the empowerment and mainstream integration of people with disabilities makes them the apt choice to be our knowledge partners for this initiative.” IBN7 Super Idols, with its strong networking and Ability Foundation as its knowledge partner had identified the 18 'Super Idols' whose work was classified under the following eight categories namely sports, entertainment, business & employment, education, national service rehabilitation, idol makers, special idol makers and life time achievement. A glittering function to honour the Super Idols was held at Mumbai and the awards were presented by none other than Aamir Khan who showed his solidarity and sensitivity yet again. “Promoting equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities is a cause which is very close to my heart. I am happy and proud to be a part of this awards function tonight which celebrates the amazing achievements of these exceptional individuals.” said Aamir Khan.IBN7 Super Idols was telecast on national television and was very well received and highly appreciated by all. This initiative gave a slice of life to the audience about the real life stories of people with disabilities in our country. This initiative made the audience stop and take notice of these exceptional achievers.It was a momentous occasion. As one of the Super Idols, Malini Chib said, “This is the first time in a glamorised event; disabled people were considered as 'Super Idols'. It's a start of making the subject inclusive and I would like to congratulate both Jayshree Raveendran from Ability foundation and Rajdeep Sardesai for creating a spectacular wonderful award ceremony on CNN-IBN.


NEWS & EVENTS

IIM Bangalore sets up office of disability servicesThe Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) in support with Mphasis Ltd, an HP company has recently set up an Office of Disability Services (ODS), in order to cater to the special needs of disabled students on campus. This is a big step forward as far as access on campus is concerned. The talks to initiate this process was started way back in July 2009 following the set up of the gender cell at IIM, Bangalore. Mphasis in this initiative is partnering with IIMB for funding and as a Knowledge partner. The aim of ODS is to provide solutions in terms of technology and other infrastructure support based on the needs of each student. MphasiS has taken up this initiative along with IIM Bangalore to showcase the fact that, such initiatives could be replicated in other IIM's, government institutions and professional educational institutes across the country. ODS will provide a single point of contact and all support for students with disabilities on the IIMB campus. The activities of ODS will include:

Assessment of students' special needs when they enter the institute. Proactive steps to provide all academic material in formats suitable for students. Identification and provision of scribes, readers and other support volunteers and Coordination of any special accommodations in the classroom and examinations.

Mphasis Ltd. along with IIM Bangalore have taken the lead towards inclusion. Such initiatives if taken up by all institutions in a big way, will pave the way to make inclusion in every sphere a reality. Information courtesy: Mphasis Ltd. National consultation on ‘Harmonising Laws with the UNCRPD’A national consultation on harmonising laws with the UNCRPD was organised by the Human Rights Law Network in partnership with the Deafway Foundation & NALSAR, focussing on the theme of convergence and the issue of cross disability. Amending outdated laws and perhaps even proposing new laws that are concurrent with the contemporary world was primarily the vision of such a consultation. The timing of this conference was opportune as the Government of India is due to give in a report to the UNCRPD in May. This consultation was expected to result in a methodical list of possible amendments that could be proposed as soon as possible. The first day saw the presentation of papers representing different disabilities. The extent of disability was one of the main issues flagged by many in the panel. The nuances of the disability need to be accorded with their ability and not their drawbacks. The support system provided to the persons with disabilities was also argued upon. The real significance of these laws with respect to those with mental illnesses and psychosocial disabilities was also exposed. The first day concluded on an open ended note, looking forward to a convergence towards common goals. The second day began with recommendations on looking forward to extending the purview of a law specific to one disability to all other disabilities. Advocate Amita Dhanda clearly postulated basic directives that, if followed, may contribute effectively to a convergence and hence harmonizing the laws with UNCRPD, most of which would sound very relevant in the field of mental disabilities.

1. Raise awareness before and after a law is passed. 2. Concrete programs for support.

3. Legislations to be such that they recognise the power


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of autonomy of disabled people. Once legislations are passed, society needs to take over the capacity building process. A consensus was reached about the definition of disability and it was resolved that the specific disabilities be modelled on a social approach rather than the disability specific medical approach.

It is also of utmost importance that the definition is not of 'disability' but of ‘persons with disability'.

- Vaishnavi Venkatesh

TAMIL NADU BUDGET 2010Tamil Nadu Finance Minister K Anbazhagan presented the state budget for 2010 on March 19 in the new state-of-art assembly-secretariat complex. The disability sector had much to cheer about as a plethora of benefits were stated… including the announcement of a separate department for differently abled persons to function under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister.

The government will take all necessary steps for enabling the differently abled persons to lead their lives getting their due share in all livelihood rights such as education, health facilities, employment and with equal rights and opportunities in the society, in accordance with with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The government will implement various welfare schemes by allocating funds unmatched before. The expenditure on the welfare of differently abled persons will be increased from Rs.49 crores in the year 2005-2006 to Rs.176 crores in the coming financial year.

Benefits and schemes announced included:

The upper income limit prescribed for 'differently-abled persons' availing assistance under various welfare schemes of Government is to be completely removed.

Differently abled persons are already exempted from the payment of the tuition fee, enabling them to pursue higher education. Now they will also be exempted from paying special fees from the coming academic year.

The monthly assistance of Rs.200 towards food charges to the students staying in the homes for the 'differently abled persons' run by the Government and voluntary organizations is to be enhanced to Rs.450 henceforth.

One more Institute of Mental Health (in addition to the existing one in Chennai) will be established for the southern districts at an estimated cost of Rs.10 crores.

The Government will provide financial support to voluntary organisations running rehabilitation homes for the mentally ill. Under this scheme, financial assistance to a tune of Rs. one crore each year, will be provided to 10 rehabilitation homes at the rate of one home for every three districts in the state.

People severely affected by elephantiasis coming under Grade IV category of this disease, who are not able to use their limbs, will be provided with monthly assistance of Rs.400 starting from the coming financial year.

A separate department for differently abled persons will function under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister.

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Geneticists unearth the roots of human variationA new study is examining the building blocks of life, using advanced single molecule methods to explore processes that lie at the very core of DNA variation in humans. The research by Dr Shriparna Sarbajna at Leicester University in the United Kingdom focuses on the process of "recombination" that re-shuffles our genetic content at the time of egg and sperm production.This “re-shuffling” produces new combinations that are passed on to future generations. Ultimately, these combinations accumulate over many years to generate the patterns of genetic variations seen in contemporary human population. Doctoral research by Dr Sarbajna uses techniques pioneered by world-renowned geneticist Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys to analyse human sperm DNA molecules. These techniques are ultimately used directly to understand the nature, location and frequency of changes occurring in our DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) matter.Dr Sarbajna said: "These studies are enabling us to explore the very basis of human genetic variation and aiding our understanding of how errors in the process produce pathological changes like those associated with conditions such as alpha thalassaemia and Down's syndrome."Our research has far-reaching consequences, ranging from assisting in genetic counselling through identifying factors contributing to infertility and chromosomal abnormalities, to understanding pathogenic rearrangements frequently seen in cancers and some inherited disorders. "Interestingly, understanding how recombination influences patterns of diversity can also shed valuable light into the history and origins of various human population," she added."Studying recombination is thus, not only of basic scientific importance, but also allows valuable insights into issues ranging from medicine to history and ancestry. “ At the heart of the problem is the fact that although vast catalogues of human genetic variation now exist, little is known about the processes that give rise to these in the first place," said Dr Sarbajna. This research is funded by the Royal Society, the UK Medical Research Council and the Louis-Jeantet Foundation.

- London Press ServiceNew Information and Communication Technology reduces attention deficit disorderA video game developed by a team from the University of Hertfordshire (UK) and Games for Life, a community Interest Company and research collaborator, reduces the symptoms of attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity (AD/HD). Experts from the University of Hertfordshire (UK) have developed a computer game that reduces the symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (AD/HD) that was tested on a group of children. Prof. Karen Pine and his assistant, Farjana Nasrin, the team working on the technology, investigated the effects of


NEWS & EVENTS"feedback electroencephalography (EEG)", – on ten children, learning strategy that detects brain waves. The system involves the child playing a fun educational computer game whilst wearing a helmet similar to a bicycle helmet. The helmet picks up their brain activity in the form of EEG (electroencephalography) waves that are specifically related to attention. In the process of the investigations, it has been found that, as long as the child concentrates they control the game, but as soon as their attention wavers, the game stops. The researchers have found at the end of the study that the children's impulsive behaviour was reduced, compared to a control group who had not used the system. "Children with a diagnosis of ADHD find it hard to control their impulses and inhibit inappropriate behaviour. This can lead to educational and behavioural difficulties. The Play Attention method may prevent long-term problems by helping children affected by ADHD, to be less impulsive and cultivate more self-control." said Prof. Karen Pine. Prof. Karen Pine and Dr. Rob Sharp, a senior specialist educational psychologist are continuing to work on futuristic projects with Ian Glasscock, Managing Director of Games for Life. A means of assessing learning in children with severe communication and physical difficulties by a thought-controlled computer game method is likely to have considerable potential for these children who cannot operate a computer manually. "Attention-related difficulties including ADHD affects many children, young people and adults and has a significant impact on their lives. Mind-controlled educational computer games technology has proven to reduce the core symptoms of ADHD,” said Mr Glasscock. Games for Life plans to roll out this new system across the United Kingdom soon to test the effectiveness of this game like device.For more information about Games for Life log on to www.gamesforlife.co.ukNew technology for people with visual impairmentIntel has released a new product for people with visual impairment. The device named Intel Reader is very simple to operate. The Intel Reader works by utilising a high resolution camera to take a picture of text. It is as simple as pointing the reader, taking a picture of the text, and letting it read aloud for the user. The devise converts the printed text into a digital readout which can either be magnified or played back via synthesised voice. The Reader can be used on any printed material. The device is very portable, allowing the user to take it anywhere they would need to. Another added feature is a headphone jack that would enable the user to maintain privacy. The Reader also comes equipped with a hard drive that allows the user to store multiple sources of text. The Intel reader is also compatible with MP3 and Daisy audio formats, digital talking books and can even store text transferred from the user’s computer.Information courtesy: www.intel.com

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NEWS & EVENTS

2nd ASLI National Conference Of Sign Language InterpretersThe 2nd conference of Association of Sign Language Interpreters (ASLI) was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi on February 13 and 14, 2010. The first conference was held in 2008 and with advocacy developments in the deaf community and a desperate shortage of trained interpreters, it was time to hold another national conference. The guests of honour and presenters were Dr Madan Vasishta, Professor Emeritus at Gallaudet University; Dr Vaishna Narang, Professor of Linguistics at Jawaharlal Nehru University; Desmond Masterson, a consumer of sign language interpreting and researcher for deaf blind people from the UK and Jennifer Smith, a Sign Language Interpreter from the UK. There was a presentation on DVD from Dr Deshmukh who spoke of his experiences in learning about deaf education, history and rights whilst running a school for the Deaf in Ichalkaranji, Maharashtra. Mr Arun C Rao as ASLI President discussed his vision for expanding the number of interpreters in India using new training methods tailored to reaching communities around India. Deaf people need a dramatic increase in the number of interpreters available to them in all areas of society to give them the equality that has been promised in the UNCRPD, which was ratified by the Indian government in 2007. There was a separate session with deaf people to discuss problems linked to the lack of interpreters and some of the issues they had with untrained interpreters, such as family members. This feedback has been recorded in order to strengthen advocacy efforts in the future.The interpreters present gained some invaluable information linked to interpreting for deaf people. Interpreters in India are in need of support and recognition for their efforts. The ASLI 2nd National Conference brought together interpreters from all over India, from Chandigarh to Hyderabad, from Kolkata to Coimbatore. A sense of community and belonging to an emerging profession is important at this time in India and the conference was a success in offering this support and information.

- Arun C. Rao


CENSUS 2011MAKING DISABILITY COUNT

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It seems just the other day that the disability sector was in a full throated struggle to get disability included in the Census of India. Debates, discussions, rallies and finally -for the first time in the history of our country- a question on disability was incorporated in the questionnaire. A far from the perfect question, a small step perhaps, but as they say, a huge leap for the disability sector in India. That was Census 2001.

All that is, of course, water under the bridge now. Now comes 2010 and the country's disability sector is abuzz again. A palpable tension and excitement is in the air. Reason: the impending Census 2011, the seventh census since India's independence. Now…how can the existing all-important question No.15 on disability be modified/changed/added to make it a more comprehensive one? How can the shortcomings of the last population census in counting people with disabilities be addressed?

Another moot issue that sets this census operation apart is that, ahead of Census 2011 and in conjunction with it, will be the data collection for the first ever National Population Register (NPR). NPR would contain such information as name, sex, date of birth, current marital status, name of father, mother and spouse, educational level attained, nationality, occupation, activity pursued, present and permanent addresses.

As stakeholders, the challenge before us is to do our utmost to ensure that such a NPR includes every man, woman and child with disability as well. What do we need to do to overcome these challenges and to achieve this? Effective training of enumerators? Public awareness campaigns? Disability activists from across the country have engaged themselves continuously over the last few weeks on these and other related issues.

To go back in history, we find that the Indian census has a rich tradition and enjoys the reputation of being one of the best in the world. The first census in India was conducted in 1872.The questionnaire of 1872 included questions not only on the physically disabled but also on the intellectually disabled. The practice was discontinued in 1931. In the words of the 1931 Census Commissioner, “The returns on infirmities at the Indian Census has probably never been satisfactory.” No attempts were then made to obtain such information at the Census of 1941, 1951, 1961 and 1971. It was only once, after our country's independence that an attempt was made to collect information on disabled persons under the Census. That was in 1981, because it happened to be the International Year for Disabled Persons. This practice was once again discontinued in 1991. Even a cursory glance at the 1981 questionnaire is enough to understand as to why the Census of 1981 failed.

The questionnaire of 1981 had only 3 categories – totally crippled, totally blind, and totally dumb. The definition of disability itself was restrictive and it left out two major categories, namely, hearing impairment and mental impairment, thus a chunk of the population was left out of the data collection.

Another drawback was the use of the word “totally”. By doing this, again a large section of the population, who were partially disabled, were not counted. The words ‘crippled’ and ‘dumb’ are also indicative of the awareness level with regard to disability at that time. The disability sector had thus to fight a prolonged battle to get disability included in Census 2001. After year-long consultations with NGOs, at the very


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last moment one question on disability was included in the census.

The achievement of Census 2001 was the inclusion of the question on disability. However, at most places, it was reported that the enumerators did not ask the question on disability. Moreover, the 2.7 million primary school teachers conducting the census were neither trained to handle the question nor did they have enough knowledge on disability. There were also issues regarding the categories of disability mentioned in the Census questionnaire.

The figure that thus emerged was persons with disabilities being only 2.13% of the Indian population, which was really way off the mark.Thus the critical issue is deciding the questions to be asked in the Census questionnaire.

The Census questionnaire can take upto nine categories, as double digit figures are not identified in the computer program being used for the census exercise. So, after a long cerebral exercise and looking at the constraints of space in the questionnaire, as also the single digit limitation of computer program, it was decided to frame the question with seven options. Thus the question asked in Census 2001 was –Q. 15. If the person is physically/mentally disabled, give appropriate code number from the list below:In Seeing …………. 1In Speech ………… 2In Hearing ………... 3In Movement …….. 4 Mental ……………. 5This time for census 2011, the NGO sector has suggested the following categories : 1. Seeing 2. Hearing & Speech 3. Movement 4. Mental Retardation 5. Mental Illness 6. Multiple Disabilities 7. Any Other.

Another important issue is the training and sensitisation of enumerators. In the training cascade 90 national trainers would train 725 master trainer facilitators, who will in turn train 54,000 trainers, who will then train the 2.7 million people who will go from door-to-door conducting the survey. The immediate task on the disability sector is to compile a training component for a 45 minutes intervention at the level of national trainers to be held in Delhi and Mumbai. Thereafter one partner in each state capital would be the nodal body for creating an expert group from across disabilities, to train enumerators in the state capital and at district levels.

To increase awareness within the disability sector and amongst disabled people and families, several strategies are needed, such as creating networks in each state to ensure that every single information filters down to the last available person/family with disabled member. Use of pamphlets, mass media, hoardings are some ideas for increasing visibility of the information. Leaders from various states could use all their existing partners, partner networks, other CBO networks, SHG groups, etc., to spread this message far and wide.

The onus is now on us. The Census operations are conducted in two phases. The first phase, which is House listing & Housing Census precedes the population enumeration by about eight to nine months, is due to commence from the first of April 2010. Within a short time period the message has to reach as many disability organisations/disabled persons and families, to first get themselves listed in the household list. The main purpose of the house

listing operations is to prepare the frame for undertaking population enumeration, besides providing a host of data on housing stock, amenities and the assets available with each household. Disability sector has to vigorously and


COVER STORYconsistently advocate for the inclusion of all persons with disabilities in National Population Register (NPR) and get the unique ID. The NPR, when created, would be a comprehensive identity data base in the country. This would not only strengthen the security of the country, but also help in better targeting of the benefits and services under the Government schemes/programmes and improving planning. During House listing and Housing Census and NPR Phase, we have to ensure that the names and other requisite particulars of the persons (infants/young/old) with disabilities are recorded in the NPR Schedule. In the second phase, Population Enumeration, data on various socio-economic and demographic parameters like age, sex, literacy, religion, disability, languages known, economic activity status and migration, etc. is collected in respect of each individual. Population enumeration will be conducted in February 2011. A collective watch and alertness on the part of activists will be required in this phase. It is the disability sector's responsibility to pro-actively address enumerators' initiatives, motivate them to ask the disability question, train family members to ensure that the question on disability is asked and ticked at the right category and ensure that all awareness materials are translated to the 16 languages for the common man to understand.The two greatest benefits for the population with disability will be (i) getting an equitable distribution of funds in budgetary allocations as equitably distributing the public money requires up-to-date population data and (ii) getting our active citizenship rights. Our whole representative democracy is based on numbers (population). The census will gain us a footing in demanding our right number of representatives in the government. In broad terms, the census will help India see 'Persons with disability as an integral component of the Indian population.'Suggested advocacy strategies

1. Meeting the Census commissioner of State.2. Ensuring that every print material that is released from their office is inclusive.3. Use of mass media to spread the message to both enumerators and respondents.4. Close interaction with enumerators on a continuous basis till Census.5. Film and print publicity material in local language.6. Extensive use of e-mail to reach all Community Based Organisations in the state and

create awareness about disabled people being counted in their neighbourhood and project areas.

7. Reaching out widely to persons with disabilities and their families.

Census 2011 is a mammoth mind boggling exercise which, as Union Home Minster Shri. P. Chidambaram said, “Nowhere in the world has a government tried to count, identify and issue identity cards to more than a billion people. This is the biggest exercise, I believe, since humankind came into existence… It would be our duty to ensure that we reach out to each and every person. This means special efforts will be required to ensure the coverage of vulnerable sections of society like the elderly, handicapped, weak and marginalised.Letter: HOME MINISTER,

INDIANEW DELHI- 110001Dated March 25, 2010

MESSAGEI am happy to note that the Ability Foundation is spearheading a media campaign to instill a sense of belongingness in the minds of the disabled persons by trying to get their data included in the National Population Register and Census of India 2011.It is heartening to note that the April-June issue of “Success & Ability” will focus on this theme as a lead feature. I am sure that with the efforts of the Ability Foundation, this segment of our population would feel part of our system. I appreciate the efforts of the Ability Foundation and I am sure they would enhance the confidence of the disabled people and send a positive signal that they are also being considered and cared for by society. I convey my best wishes to the Ability Foundation in their noble effort. P.Chidambaram


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Dr. C. CHANDRAMOULI, IAS, Registrar General and Census Commissioner India, has the challenging task of overseeing the Census of India in 2011, including the collection of data from April 2010 for the first ever NRP.

Extremely sensitive to the issue of disability, one of his many concerns is to ensure that people with disabilities are not excluded from the NRP. He is no stranger to the disability sector. During his tenure as Director, Census Operations for Tamil Nadu during the Census of 2001, he worked closely with Ability Foundation, Actionaid India and Vidyasagar.

Dr. C. Chandramouli also enabled the inclusion of a module on disability sensitisation for the 1, 50,000 enumerators in Tamil Nadu ― a first time endeavour for the entire country. Here, he writes on the importance of the Census operations and what makes it the largest such exercise in the world.

Census 2011Census 2011 will be conducted in two phases. The first phase is called the Houselisting and Housing Census. This is to be conducted between April and July this year, depending on the convenience of different States/UTs. The details required for creating the NPR will also be canvassed during this phase. The second phase called, ‘Population Enumeration’ phase will be conducted simultaneously all over the country from the 9th to 28th of February 2011.

This is the only source of primary data at village, town and ward level. It provides valuable information for planning and formulation of polices for Central and State Governments and is widely used by national & international agencies, scholars, business people, industrialists and many more. The delimitation/reservation of Constituencies ― parliamentary/assembly/panchayats and other local bodies is also done on the basis of the demographic data thrown up by the Census.

National Population Register The NPR would be a register of usual residents of the country. The NPR will be a comprehensive identity database that would help in better targeting of the benefits and services under the Government schemes/programmes, improve planning and help strengthen security of the country. As this is being done for the first time in the country, Census 2011 would mark a significant milestone in the country.

Magnitude of Operations & CostThe Census has rightly been described as the largest administrative exercise in the country. With the added task of preparing the NPR, its scope and magnitude has grown manifold. The numbers speak for themselves. Spread across 35 States and Union Territories, more than 240 crore households will be visited and 1.20 billion people enumerated during this exercise. To carry out this massive exercise, more than 2.5 million people will be engaged. The fact that many countries in the world do not even have a population equal to the number of officials who conduct the Indian census is an indication of the size of this operation! To add to the complexity is the fact that the census forms are printed in 16 languages and the instruction manuals in 18 languages. Surely, these facts vouchsafe the claim that the Indian Census is indeed the largest such

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operation in the world.

Census ProcessThe Census process involves visiting each and every household and gathering particulars by asking questions and filling up Census Forms. The information collected about individuals is kept absolutely confidential. In fact, this information is not accessible even to courts of law. After the field work is over, the forms are transported to data processing centres located at 15 cities across the country. A word now about the technology used. The Intelligent Character Recognition Software (ICR) that was pioneered by India in Census 2001 has become the benchmark for Censuses around the globe. This involves the scanning of the Census Forms at high speed and extracting the data automatically using computer software. This revolutionary technology has enabled the processing of voluminous data in a very short time and saving a huge amount of manual labour and cost.

NPR ProcessAs regards the NPR, personal details such as name, date of birth, sex, present address, permanent address, names of father, mother and spouse, etc., will be gathered by visiting each and every household. All usual residents are eligible to be included irrespective of their nationality. Each and every household will be given an acknowledgment slip at the time of enumeration. The data will then be entered into computers in the local language of the State as well as in English. Once this database has been created, biometrics such as photograph and 10 fingerprints will be added for all persons aged 15 years and above. This will be done by arranging camps at every village and at the ward level in every town. Each household will be required to bring the acknowledgement slip to such camps. Those who miss these camps will be given the opportunity to present themselves at permanent NPR centres to be set up at the tehsil/town level.

From NPR to Unique IDThe lists thus authenticated will then be sent to the Unique Identity Authority of India (UIDAI) for de-duplication and issue of UID Numbers. All duplicates will be eliminated at this stage based on comparison of biometrics. Unique ID numbers will also be generated for every person. The cleaned database along with the UID number will then be sent back to the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India (ORG&CCI) and would form the NPR. As the UID system works on the basis of biometric de-duplication, in the case of persons of age 15 years and above (for whom biometrics is available), the UID number will be available for each individual. For those below the age of 15 years (for whom biometrics is not available), the UID number will be linked to the parent or guardian.

National Identity CardThe NPR would have the data of every person enumerated during the Census operations irrespective of age. It would also have the biometric data and UID number of every person of age 15 years and above. National Identity Cards will be given in a phased manner to all usual residents by the ORG&CCI who has been designated as the National Registration Authority. To start with, the issue of cards will be done in coastal villages. After this, the coastal towns will be covered and so on till the entire country is covered.


Maintenance and Updating of the NPRNPR centres will be set up at tehsil level. Persons who have missed the two rounds of photography/biometric capture can come here for giving their particulars. Normally, the entry into NPR will be only through the process of birth registration or through valid immigration. New persons can also

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apply but will be admitted into the NPR system only after rigid verification. The state revenueofficials at the village, tehsil and district level will continue to function as registrars for NPR under the Citizenship Act. Services such as changes in the name/address, loss or damage of cards, capture of photograph/biometrics, issue of new cards, etc., will be rendered at these NPR Centres.

People's ParticipationIt is needless to emphasise that such an ambitious exercise such as the National Census and NPR cannot be successful without the complete cooperation of the people. It has been a common experience that vulnerable sections of the society like the elderly, infants, young children, women, the disabled and people belonging to the weaker sections of society get left out of the count, either because the enumerator does not ask about them or because the respondents themselves do not reveal their presence. It is absolutely essential that no one is left out especially due to the fact that along with the Census, the NPR exercise is also being carried out. In the last Census, the Census organisation worked closely with Non Governmental Organisations especially in the gender and disability sector. In Census 2011 such collaboration would be strengthened and effective action initiated to make this a people's movement. Ultimately, it is our Census and its success will pave the way for our bright future.

This milestone event in our country is about us, by us and for us – we have to make it count.”

Keeping all this in mind, it was very important to bring together the concerned stakeholders of the disability sector. Thus it was brought about on March 15th and 16th, everyone concerned — disability activists, social workers and leaders — came together to rectify the past errors, find a common ground and play their role in making the Census 2011 more efficient and effective.

The agenda of the meeting organised by National Centre For the Promotion of Employment of Disabled Persons (NCPEDP) was fourfold:

Preparing the question on disability,

Training and sensitisation of enumerators;

Creating awareness both within the disability sector and amongst disabled people and families

Advocacy with the central government, state governments,media and the private sector.

All issues were tricky but of utmost importance, each mutually dependent on the other. As the problems faced in Census 2011 reported that at most places the enumerators did not even ask the question on disability and the results confirmed that only 2.13% of the Indian population was disabled, it was time to set right these misappropriations. One of the really difficult tasks at the meet was to come up with an all-inclusive brief and easy to ask question that included all disabilities.

A common problem faced at the local level is that the enumerators, often primary school


teachers, may not understand correctly and may fail to explain some common disabilities such as learning disorders. Therefore, the question had to not only encompass all forms of disabilities but also be legible for both the enumerator and the common man. Some believed the question should be function-based/activity-based, i.e., in the form: “Do you have difficulty walking?” and so on so as to ensure that all people understand them and also decrease the likelihood of hurting their sentiments, self-esteem and pride.

A study conducted by NCPEDP on 'Disability Question in Population

COVER STORYCensus of India 2011' saw disability prevalence rates in numerous developed countries touching double digits. In developed countries, almost each person in the country is accounted for. Every citizen has a social security number with vital data about what is his/her age, his/her educational status and yes, whether he/she is disabled or non-disabled. So, the numbers are far more accurate and authentic. This Census will see a breakthrough in the preparation of the NPR. Dr. C. Chandramouli stressed on the importance of NPR. The Census 2011 would result in the creation of a comprehensive identity database in the country. Every citizen will be issued a separate identification card based on finger-prints and retina-scans, working with a unique code This code will find a place on all other databases including passport, PAN, ration card, etc. Another issue tackled at the meeting was the training of the enumerators. The training cascade includes 90 national trainers (NTs), 735 master trainer facilitators (MTFs), 54,000 master trainers (MTs) and 72 lakh enumerators and supervisors. The enumerators are mainly primary school teachers hired by the government, and they are the most important branch of the tree. This time, the role of NGOs will play a very important role in sensitisation of workers. “Besides senior officials, renowned personalities from among the NGOs have been selected as national trainers in each state to provide training to other officials to conduct the enumeration of the Census,” Dr Chandramouli said. “In the first phase of census 2011, data collection for creation of the first ever computerised National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC), along with houselisting and housing census would be taken up in April this year,” he added.The actual population enumeration would be undertaken simultaneously across the country from Feb 9 to Feb 28, 2011 followed by a five-day revision round from March 1-5, 2011. The preliminary census result would be declared on March 25, 2011. To conduct the Census operation, several thousand enumerators, supervisors and Census officers will be appointed across the country soon. Stakeholders discussed the way forward in creating easy to understand and teach training programmes. Creating awareness among the masses will be an essential task. Numerous innovative ideas were discussed during the two-day meet. These included forming alliances with different mass media outlets such as electronic news channels, newspapers and radio, along with CSR initiatives of private corporations. There were strong suggestions that Prasar Bharti and public broadcasting corporation should be contacted for help. Some also suggested that mediums like mobile advocacy, internet and social media can prove to be useful and effective. The way to advocacy was outlined in a few simple steps: pressuring the


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central government mnistries including the home ministry, social welfare ministry and information and broadcasting ministry; using Public Interest Litigations and Right To Information applications; reaching state governments and local administrative bodies such as the panchayat.

It's time to become visible!JAVED ABIDI, Honorary Director, NCPEDP

In India, Census has been conducted uninterruptedly since 1871, i.e. from the times of the British. And for some reason, the British were interested in collecting statistics on disabled people. Even the last Census of 1941 under the British Raj had a question on disability!

It is therefore even more distressing that in Independent India, no serious effort was made to collect disability statistics, as late as until 2001. In the Census of 1951, 1961, 1971, 1981 and then 1991, no effort was made to enumerate the disabled population of our country. Think of it and think hard. In real black and white Government records, we just did not exist!

As late as 1997, a full 50 years after India gained independence, if you asked any Government babu, we were a mere 'zero point some' percent! Not even one percent! No wonder the nation and its politicians and bureaucrats didn't pay us any attention! No wonder there wasn't much progress in the disability sphere of India's development.

A nation, especially its policy makers and decision makers, are mostly guided by cold numbers. No numbers basically means no resources and no resources certainly mean no progress or development.

We want access! We say that accessibility or a barrier free environment is the foundation of disabled people's empowerment. And we want accessibility of not just the built environment, we want electronic accessibility as well, and more. We want ramps built, we want WCAG compliant websites, we want thousands of sign language interpreters and we want digital books. We want inclusive education. We want incentives for the private sector to boost employment of people with disabilities. Sure, but how will it happen? How will it all happen without allocation of resources? A heck lot of resources. Crores and crores and crores of Rupees!!

The politicians and especially the babus will never allocate that kind of resources for us based merely on the goodness of the human heart, in other words charity or pity. A few crores maybe but not a naya paisa more! No wonder that even as late as 1995, the year the Disability Act was passed, the total budget on disability related schemes in the Social Justice (then, Social 'Welfare') Ministry was only 160 or 170 crores.

Fast forward to 2001, the year of the previous Census. Well, actually, 1999, when we wrote that innocent letter to the Census Commissioner with a simple request. To enumerate India's 'Invisible Minority', the present and yet not counted, nor acknowledged 70 million disabled citizens! The then Census Commissioner said 'no' and we picked up a huge fight. It was six months of sustained campaign, advocacy bordering on activism that finally led to the inclusion of that one dream question. A simple question and yet such a powerful question: ‘Are you disabled and if so, what is your disability?'

In 2001, when the last Census was conducted, when the enumerator came to my house and read that dream question, what I heard was: 'Do you exist?' And I loudly, with tears in my eyes said, 'Yes, I do. I exist. I am a citizen too. Yes, I too am a proud Indian!' Then, the numbers came. 21 million they said. I had mixed emotions. Not bad. From less than one percent to over two percent,


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the numbers had doubled actually. Not bad at all. But then, we looked into the mirror. The stark ugliness stared back. While some got counted, most got left out. Actually, millions got left out. They got left out because (a) the question was hurriedly and therefore, badly drafted; (b) the enumerators were neither trained, nor sensitised; and (c) not much awareness was created amongst disabled people and their families to step out, to step forward and to be counted.

This is what we have to get right this time. And together, collectively, all of us, each one of us, We Shall!

It is time. It is that time. Yes, indeed.

It is that time that each one of us shall be counted. Each one. All 70 million and plus. We shall not be invisible no more. Yes, it is that time.

It is time for India's disabled people to become visible!!

Calendar for conducting Houselisting & NPR April - June 2010Schedule Names of State/Union Territorities

1st April - 15th May Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Assam, Bihar, Goa,

Jharkhand, Meghalaya, West Bengal7th April - 22nd May Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Orissa, Sikkim

15th April - 31st May Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh

15th April - 1st June Karnataka

21st April - 4th June Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, Gujarat

26th April - 10th June Andhra Pradesh, Tripura

1st May - 15th June Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra, Punjab, Uttarakhand

7th May - 22nd June Madhya Pradesh

15th May - 30th June Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Mizoram, Rajasthan

16th May - 30th June Uttar Pradesh

1st June - 15th July Nagaland, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu

As the first phase of houselisting begins in April 2010, the most important challenge will be to make people conscious of the efforts and ensure that they realise the importance of counting. Dr. C. Chandramouli said, “The common man is skeptical of the 'Sarkari Consensus', so this time we made it personal. We will have to make it a people's movement and ensure that their status (the disabled) is revealed as it is on the ground. It is time we take our report card seriously.”

This hugely important exercise has to be utilised to the maximum. Parents, families, friends, disabled persons, service providers, leaders...all the concerned parties.

Responsiveness is the key. Reaching out is our strength. We need to make possible brand-new political equations for a reform- starved disability sector. Most importantly, as the government has stretched out its hands towards accountability, our first priority – right now, is to strive for maximum visibility…we have waited long enough. It's time to stand up!

- DEEPAK JHA, RAMA CHARI, SRUTI MOHAPATRA, JANAKI PILLAI

ACHIEVEMENTS

The Horizon Never Ends- by Salil Chaturvedi

Writer, actor, poet, writer in English as well as Hindi, adventurer, traveller, Head - Splash Communications, professional voice-over person… disabled activist… there are no full stops with Salil Chaturvedi, a wheelchair user as a result of an accident during his school days. His restless and indomitable spirit takes him from one unknown destination to another… his insatiable thirst to explore the unexplored, this time, made him determined to triumph against all odds and lead a four-member sailing expedition from Mumbai to Goa in a campaign for equal access for disabled persons. Here is his account of the expedition in his own words… going back in time after the event and translating his feelings on paper in the unique style that only he can… Read on… here's Salil's pen at its best. Now it's all done. Now it's time to go home. It was time for one last look at the coconut trees from the balcony, the lonely white chapel at the end of the road and the Aguada bay seen over the roofs of the buildings across our flat. Now, already, it's time for missing things. Time for Toni Morrison who once said… “it is sheer good fortune to miss somebody long before they leave you. And there are so many people and things to miss.” I'll miss the excitement that I felt as we cast off from Mumbai, beginning our sail that would last eight days and cover 280 nautical miles. 'This is it,' I said to myself, as the main sail came up, remembering the six months of intense preparation – working out, swimming, keeping fit, eating heavy duty breakfasts, reading books on sailing and navigation, designing the special seat that would be used on the boat and allaying mom's fears about the journey (No mom, I don't think I need to take along a deep-sea diver for safety). We were finally on the sea, on a heading of two-two-zero out of Mumbai harbour. The light was fading fast and when I looked back, I could see a clutch of friends and


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relatives on the shore waving at us in the twilight, holding flags that said Bon Voyage, though I couldn't read them from this distance. Moments earlier, Adi Godrej had looked at me as he had come to the end of his short speech at the flag-off ceremony and said, 'Enjoy the sail, Salil.' I would remember his words many times, especially when we were stuck in the sea with no breeze, waiting under the hot sun for hours for the wind to pick up. I'll miss that spot on the sea where I woke up the first morning. I pulled myself up from the floor of the boat on to the thwart. I rubbed my eyes and looked around and all I could see was this soft morning shade, a silvery pink. Miles and miles of it. No land, no topography, no sound, no birds, just a curvy gelatinous sea and our boat moving up and down on the silvery pink and silence, broken by the tinkle of water against the hull of the boat.

I'll miss every evening's routine, a little after sunset, when Umaji would open his dry sack and start wearing his cap and jacket and tell us to dress warmly before we got cold. I'll miss him radioing with Chaitanya on the boat behind; asking him to make sure everyone was dressed warmly on his boat. In fact, I'll miss all the radio conversations. 'Come in Chitanya … Chaitanya come in …' And I'll miss that first night when we lost radio contact and kept wondering where Chaitanya's boat was, till he crept up on us silently in the morning. I'll miss the suspense of the nights. The inky seas, the constant search for a reference point in the sky. Finding a star that was convenient to steer by. Flashing the torch from time to time on the compass kept along side, correcting the course of the boat till the arrow pointing north aligned itself to the red mark on the compass, then flashing the torchlight on the sail to warn others of our presence and finally a quick look at the tell-tales to see what the wind was doing. And when there was nothing else to do, asking someone (usually Umaji)

A brief exclusive interview with Salil for “Success and ABILITY” by Meera Balachander

1) This sail is certainly not your first travel experience. Would you rate it as the most adventurous till now?Yes, I have never ever before put myself at the complete mercy of the elements. A strange thing happened during the sail. I realised that one doesn't have to go with the flow, but one has to become the flow.

2) 'When you start off again, you'll forget all the waiting, as if it hadn't happened'. Besides the patience of waiting, what other insights into life did the sail bring to you?Well, the previous answer has one such insight. The other one would be of interconnectedness. Everything seems to be connected to everything else. Also, make the most of the wind that blows now.

3) What were the extra/special arrangements you had to make in view of your disability for this trip?I worked out for about six months, swimming regularly and doing weight training, so that I was physically fit. I also had regular physiotherapy sessions and stretching exercises. I concentrated on strengthening my back, since that was the weakest area. I had a special air-cushion imported from UK. This cushion gets strapped to me, so I am always sitting on a cushioned surface. We also built a special seat out of a car-rally seat. The seat was fitted with

shock absorbers to take away any sudden impacts to the spine. I was strapped into the seat with a four-point harness.

4) How often does the travel/adventure bug bite you?Generally, I like to travel once in three months, though I am spoilt now, after this sail. The experience was so exhilarating that I'd like to go on a really long voyage.

5) Where can we find you next?I'll let you know when I find myself!


ACHIEVEMENTSquestions like, 'What's our speed right now?' or, 'How many nautical miles from shore?' or, 'What's our average so far?' Then he'd consult the GPS and provide the requested information. I'll miss the wait for the moon to set, so we could see clearly in the dark. I'll miss looking up at the countless stars and the sound of the center-plate going dug-dug, dug-dug right next to my ear, as I tried to find a comfortable posture to sleep in. And I'll miss the life jacket under my head for a pillow. I'll miss all the planning that we did every day before we set sail – we head out two-four-zero for an hour and then we turn to one-eight-zero till we see the lighthouse, when we turn to one-six-zero; when we see the port we'll jibe and a couple of tacks should take us into the jetty; we'll be coming into the port from the northwest, so the approach should be easier, but we'll have to go around this headland and tack and finally luff up to the jetty… I'll miss the sparrow that came and sat on our boat once, all exhausted, her beak wide open and panic in her eyes. I threw a slice of orange towards her but the bird just looked at it and finally flew off when she saw the hills. I'll miss the mysterious butterflies that were out in the sea and the phosphorescence that I saw one night, along the main sail sheet that was hanging in the water. And of course, I'll miss the wedding anniversary we had on the sea. I'd finished my shift on the tiller and was resting on the floor of the boat. It would soon be time for me to take the tiller again. When it was past twelve, I heard my cousin on the radio with Chaitanya: 'Come in Chaitanya … Chaitanya do you read me?' 'I hear you, over.' 'Is Monika awake? Over.' 'Monika was on the deck, but she has just gone into the cabin to sleep, over.' 'When she comes out, will you wish her a happy anniversary, over.' 'Roger … copy… er … will you do the same with Salil, please, over.''Will do … over and out.' Then in the morning they got the two boats together, so Monika could be transferred to my boat and we could be together on our anniversary. I'll miss the times around lunch hour when the conversation always turned to food as we sucked on some oranges – remember the prawn curry at Zia's in Mumbai or the biryani at Deogadh? The poha at Ratnagiri was something else, wasn't it? Where exactly is the Lemon Tree restaurant in Aguada? And I'll miss that incredible sip of Thumbs Up when we reached shore in the afternoon at Ratnagiri. The bottle was put to the lips and when it came down the entire contents had disappeared in one smooth gulp!I'll miss the dolphins, the beaches and the cliffs we saw along the coast. The windmills, the radio towers,

ACHIEVEMENTSthe bridges over creeks and the eerie dark shadows of the Vengurla rocks that we passed at night. I'll miss the interminable wait for the three flashes of the Aguada lighthouse when we were well past Vengurla. The light was supposed to be visible 27 nautical miles away, but we never did see it because of the haze. And I'll miss the time when we were suddenly surrounded by fishing nets. We raised the center-plate up a little so the nets wouldn't get caught and meandered our way out. I'll also miss the rigging of the boat, the pulling of halyards, the unfurling of sails, inserting the sail batons, raising the anchor, lowering the centre-plate, putting in the rudder and the tiller and UC calling out to me, 'I'm casting off… have you planned your course, Salil?' And as we entered a port, UC always telling me, 'Be aware of the wind.' I'll miss sitting under the blazing sun, doing nothing, waiting for some breeze, wondering what had made me take up this sail. If we were lucky we'd see a sea snake or two, or a shoal of surface fish going past the boat or a barracuda zipping over the water on its tail. Then after hours of nothing, we'd eventually see the wind on the water and watch it make its way towards us. I won't forget Umaji saying to me, 'When you start off again, you'll forget all the waiting, as if it hadn't happened. That's the great thing about sailing.' I'll miss riding the big waves. The fine art of sliding the boat down a swell to gather speed and then bringing it back on course. I'll also miss our efforts to use every scrap of wind, every gust on the water, avoiding the holes in the wind. I'll miss the time when Monika and Shaunik decided to jump into the sea, when we were within striking distance of Goa. They were to be picked up by Chaitanya's boat. They kept asking me to get into the water, but I declined. And I'll miss the time when we finally anchored off the Cidade beach. A few friends had sailed out to meet us. All of us on the boat shook hands and hugged each other and suddenly there was a round of clapping on boats all around us. It lasted for about thirty seconds, but I'll remember it for a lifetime. I also understand now, Umaji's mysterious question, 'Doing this is so much better than not doing this, isn't it?' I understand now. But now, it's time to go home and miss things.


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ENCHANTING MOMENTSCAVINKARE ABILITY AWARDS 2010 PHOTOS

CAVINKARE ABILITY AWARDS 2010 PHOTOS


AWARDS

CAVINKARE ABILITY AWARDS 2010CavinKare Ability Awards in its eighth year has steadily and with increased tempo, helped break stereotyped notions associated with people with disabilities. It has made people all over the country sit up and take notice not only of the recipients of the awards and their achievements, but also challenged their own perceptions about disability. The awards ceremony itself has always been a phenomenally inspiring event, guaranteed to touch the most hardened hearts. This year was no exception. The one word that echoed throughout the evening was 'inclusion'. The evening opened to a striking rendition of Allah Tero Naam, rendered by Anooradha Sriram that set the mood for the evening. Revathy, who was MC for the show, Jayshree Raveendran, Founder & Executive Director, Ability Foundation and C.K.Ranganathan, Chairman & Managing Director, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd, set the event in context, reflecting on the journey of the Awards and the role it created towards an inclusive society. Hope, change, happiness, awareness – these were thoughts that were reflected as the four winners, who had taken the road less travelled, received their awards. The presentation of the awards was interspersed with other four segments of entertainment: music, dances and art extravaganza. First was a lively performance of Yakshagana by Mysore Nagaraj's Articulate India Dance Troupe. It was only because the programme specified that this was “an inclusive dance group of dancers with and without visual impairment” that the audience was able to understand and look at the tapes arranged as markers on the stage for the dancers who needed to feel their positions. There was a moment of drama when one of the performers came dancing across the auditorium, through the audience and leaped and bounded his way onto the stage: a dancer with visual impairment of course!The Sufi wheelchair dance by Sallauddin Pasha's “Ability Unlimited” troupe gave a whirling taste of the infinity beyond. The dancers swerved and twirled with grace, and their final performance to A.R.Rahman's mystical Khwaja mere Khwaja was a veritable treat for the eyes and the ears , with special lighting effects adding more “soul” to the performance. The performance by violin maestro Dr.Sriram Parasuram and artists Jacob Jebaraj and Sheela was just what it claimed to be - a superb convergence of music and art. Art which transcended the fact that Sheela, who had lost both her arms in an accident when she was four years old, painted with her foot, while Jacob Jebaraj with his hand, both the artists painted to the mood of the music. This was truly an amazing experience for all, as they witnessed art at its best and the creation of exquisite paintings. The high point of the performance was the song “Pudhu kondattam” (Celebrate Life) that was specially composed for the occasion. With inspiring lyrics by lyricist Thamarai,

AWARDSset to music under the direction of singer-composer Srininvas, the song symbolised everything that Ability Foundation stood for – a celebration of humankind and an inclusive tomorrow.The stage was filled almost to its limits by thirty odd performers who sang this inspiring song . There were thus popular singers, winners of a television music competition, Airtel Super Singers, Padmasri Smt. Gayathri Shankar, Dr.Aishwarya and singers from Comagan's Blind Orchestra. Adding the key element of inclusion were the students who signed the song in Indian Sign language. The audience too joined in, reading the words from papers that had been handed around. It was a moment of high energy and motivation. More inspiring than any of this, were the award winners themselves. Before each one received the award, a short film was screened which gave the audience a glimpse about their disability and their achievements.Bajrang Lal Suthar winner of the CavinKare Ability Mastery Award went through a paralytic attack as a young man of 20. From being a skilled, active young man, he became completely inert and inept practically overnight, when it was noticed that there was a small flicker of movement and sensation between his thumb and finger, his parents gave him a pen and paper. Today, Bajrang has become an artist in his own right himself with a unique style of his own. Bajrang has lived in a remote village in Rajasthan all his life. His paintings are distinctly surrealistic – even though Bajrang knows nothing of this European school of art, or even its name. Receiving his award, he expressed his gratitude and feeling of motivation that he had been selected for it. When he mentioned his determination to be the support of his aging parents, it was a poignant reminder that, as their only son, he was publicly pledging to make every effort to overcome his disability and do what he perceived to be his sacred duty by them.Puja Subramaniam , winner of the Cavinkare Ability Mastery Award, made a deep impression with her spirit of grit and determination. At the age of twelve, Puja was diagnosed with a progressive neuromuscular disorder named Charcot-Marie-Tooth. Accepting fresh challenges not just disability related ones but also as a woman, she effectively countered all stumbling blocks and established an engineering consultancy company – 'Bolster Engineering Solutions', which requires that she not only works hard at her job but also needs to persuade her clients to have faith in her ability to deliver. Thanking her family for having discerned her abilities and potential. she said, receiving this award was like seeing an oasis after a long walk through the desert. She dedicated it to every disabled individual in the world in the hope that their potential, too, would be identified and nurtured.The audiences were enthused and greatly inspired by the recipient of our CavinKare Ability Mastery Award this year,


AWARDSZamir Dhale. Zamir's zest for life is all the more potent as he is deafblind. Living every moment to the fullest, as an Advocacy Officer at Sense International (India), Ahmedabad, he is a loving husband, a doting father and a vociferous activist, travelling extensively in India and overseas, presenting papers at conferences to create awareness on the needs and rights of deafblind people. Speaking through his interpreter Sachin, Zamir said that the award, was an award not just for him but for all his deafblind friends, special educators, parents of deafblind children, his colleagues, his family and all who had supported him. Zamir chose his moment on the stage to also request the Government of India to accord deafblindness unique disability status and to include it in the PD Act with inclusive policy for training, education, employment and health. With Shri Mukul Wasnik, Hon. Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment as chief guest of the occasion, it was a valid platform and showed Zamir's professional outlook and dedication to furthering the cause of inclusion.The recipient of the CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence, Vedantam Sada Siva Murthy, exemplified endurance. Murthy lost both his legs in a train accident twenty eight years ago. He deeply understood the pain of losing a limb and wanted others to have access to the facilities that he couldn’t have had. Thus was born the 'Chaitanya Artificial Limb Centre' at Palakol, near Rajahmundry, with the aim of providing both physical and psychological rehabilitation for everyone. With fierce determination and optimism, he has till today, helped over 600 patients begin a new life. Murthy in his acceptance speech spoke of the people who had guided him through difficult times and motivated him. He pledged to continue to serve and received a standing ovation from the audience.A galaxy of dignitaries was present and they were clearly very moved and inspired by every one of the awardees. The chief guest, Shri. Mukul Wasnik, Hon. Union Minister Social Justice & Empowerment and guest of honour, Shri N.Murali, Managing Director, The Hindu were joined by jury members Dr Mohini Giri, Chairperson, Guild of Service and Mr Shravan Garg, Group Editor, The Bhaskar Group in felicitating the CavinKare Ability award recipients. Shri N. Murali said the awards represented the triumph of hope over adversity and triumph of human spirit and ‘never say die' attitude. He lauded CavinKare and Ability Foundation for instituting the awards. Shri Mukul Wasnik spoke eloquently on how inspiring the evening had been. He said that the Central Government had initiated a process to harmonise Indian laws with the United Nations Convention for Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities. He expressed the government's solidarity with the mission of Ability Foundation to move towards an equitable society for every citizen with disability.There was scarcely a dry eye in the audience, as each of the awardees received their awards. While the audience at the event felt inspired and motivated to carry forward the great movement of inclusion and celebrating diversity in various walks of life, many also commented and gave thought to the hundreds of others who may not be receiving awards but continue to live brave and extraordinary lives, facing adversities with courage, determination and cheer. A relaxed dinner provided the opportunity for guests to interact with the awardees and their families.

AWARDS

The Making Of “Pudhu Kondattam”In conversation with singer-composer SrinivasWhen we telephoned singer - composer Srinivas and asked if he would put together a few songs for a ten minute segment for the 8th CavinKare Ability Awards function, he accepted with alacrity and enthusiasm. Srinivas: I had heard and read about Ability Foundation and seen photographs of Jayshree. I was happy to do something even in a small way. We then caught up with him, to discuss the songs, what his stage requirements would be and so on, but he had a surprise for us… “Why film songs”, he asked us, “I was thinking we should do a new song, a sort of ‘Ability’ song”.A new song, we asked ourselves in disbelief, how was this really going to happen?! Who was going to write the song… and the music, and the recording and… and… we had just all of five days! Responding positively to the one call Srinivas made… lyricist Thamarai then came into our lives. Over at Srinivas's home studio, Thamarai listened to our 15 minute brief and to the music that Srinivas provided her and asked to be left alone till she had put down her thoughts. Less than an hour and a half later,… Jayshree, Bharathi and Janaki were sitting around her… letting those beautiful words flow into our hearts! “Ulagam ondru, uyirgal ondru” (the human race is the same, for you and for me…) with Srinivas humming away beside her… truly a magical moment! Before we knew it, it was evening and we were in Rajiv Menon's recording studio, kind courtesy Rajiv Menon... It was buzzing with activity, the young singers from a well known television show, celebrities in their own right, humming the song as they tried, first one, and then another, variation of a line… Said Srinivas: “It would have been very easy to get a keyboard player and sing a few of my own songs, but I would not have really contributed anything to the evening. Of course, having committed to doing it, I was a little worried about how I was going to pull it off! I honestly feel, you should grab the opportunity when it presents itself and do something good. When I began to call others to join this project, I selected those who I thought were basically sensitive, and would beable to devote enough time, with enthusiasm.” The idea was always that this song would be an inclusive one, and our singers included those with visual and orthopedic disabilities. Away from the studio, students with hearing impairment were rehearsing the song… in Indian Sign Language! “Differences are what make us so unique and interesting, so we should ensure that everyone is included and treated equally with no condescension or pity.” There… we thought… it was done! The impossible had become possible… so many string instrumentalists, percussionists, drummers, flutists… all walking in andAWARDSout of the Studio till 2 am to learn and record their piece… it was now seemingly done. But no! Apparently not! The recording over, the indefatigable perfectionist Srinivas was soon at the state-of- art A.M. Studio, made available to us, thanks to A.R. Rahman, for the mixing. Finally, it was truly ready. The fruits of tireless labour of love. Came the evening of the show… as the singers filled the stage and the opening bars of the song were heard, we knew it was going to be an extra special evening. Continued Srinivas: “On the programme day, I felt so great that for once in my life I had done something good. It was totally different from any other programme that I have done. Usually I don't ask my wife or parents to come for any of my programmes, but for this I invited them and they enjoyed it immensely. The awardees were so amazing. What I liked about the


programme was that it was so positive and no one was sympathising or crying about disability.” There are people in this world who go the extra mile to make the impossible possible....and in so doing touch the hearts of those around them. In Srinivas, we found such a man. Thank you, Srinivas!THE J.U.R.YMOHINI GIRI “ CavinKare Ability Awards are not merely awards in recognition of a person's capabilities. They are given to achievers who have overlooked their personal limitations. It recognises the innate talents of individuals and acts as a right motivator to reaffirm the awardees in whatever work they're doing. I have been associated with the Foundation since the inception of the awards. From then to now, it really has come a long way ahead. Each year is better than the last. Every time I am here, it looks like a fresh start. Women need to be given special mention and awards for women with disabilities can also be highlighted. I have worked with war widows and many of them are alienated by the society. Women with disabilities face multiple problems. Such awards can give them strength and renewed hope.”DR.V.KRISHNAMURTHY“ Of all the institutions I have been associated with, the work done by this group, particularly the way in which Jayshree Raveendran works; I am amazed and happy about what Ability Foundation is doing. I have been a part of the CavinKare Ability Awards for the past three years. Year after year, the nominations we get are of a higher order, making it difficult to choose. The awards instituted by the Foundation have really caught the attention of a larger population. I am quite proud to be associated with these awards.”

AWARDSSHRAVAN GARG “ It is a wonderful initiative and this is my first experience. It's nice to be in Chennai and meet people who are doing such sincere and dedicated work for this cause. I think it should find support from every corner. The kind of entries that have been received from over 20 states shows people's enthusiasm and we should have more and more people coming forward to help and participate in events like this. All over the country there are hundreds of people helping out the disabled; if they could learn from the work CavinKare and Ability Foundation is doing, there could be a common platform that can be established with new ideas so that more can be done. We take it for granted that the media needs to know certain things, which may not be the case. You need to make a space by sensitising them and telling them that they should make the disabled a part of their growth. That cannot happen till the media is invited and shown what activities such organisations are doing. Am sure once that is done, more and more corporate will come in and help out and take it forward. Be it electronic, print, audio, they will all be sensitised.”RADHA MOHAN“ It was a learning experience, as this is my second year of participation as a Jury member. These awards are a great inspiration for persons with disabilities. These awards are an opportunity to know individuals, about their great work and to get inspired. I realised this year, all candidates have achieved great things without doubt. All the people who have zsupported them and helped bring them into the limelight also need to be honoured along with the winners! Earlier people with disabilities were portrayed in a comical way. That image had to be changed and my film, Mozhi was an attempt to showcase people with disabilities as any other dignified and respected individual. ”KANIMOZHIKanimozhi, Rajya Sabha MP and lyricist is noted for her ardent convictions and sensitivity. This is the second time she has been associated with the CavinKare Ability Awards as a member of the eminent jury. She has been extremely sensitive to the cause of disability and strongly advocates the need for inclusion at all ends.


AWARDS

AWARD WINNERSWINNER’S SPEAKThe proud winners of the CavinKare Ability Awards 2010 were Vedantam Sada Siva Murthy (Andhra Pradesh) Eminence; Puja Subramaniam (Madhya Pradesh) Mastery; Bajrang Lal Suthar (Rajasthan) Mastery and Zamir Dhale (Gujarat) Mastery. EMINENCE AWARDVedantam Sada Siva MurthyAccording to Sadasiva Murthy, this award is “very soothing to a broken heart”. “I am very pleased to receive the Award, and today an award means i work harder tomorrow- to upgrade the services of the center founded by me; to reach out to help more people, especially the local populace and be able to provide free services to more people than that is being done currently. A huge credit of my success goes to my “better half” and also my partners at the “Chaitanya Artificial Limbs Center”. I have not been able to switch off my mobile as it keeps ringing with congratulatory messages from family, friends and all my patients. I am very happy and thank CavinKare and Ability Foundation for this honour.”MASTERY AWARDBajrang Lal SutharDespite the odds being stacked against him, Bajrang Lal Suthar has proven himself to his parents on many counts- on winning recognition, on winning respect and an award; but more practically taking his mother on a plane for the first time! He has also won the respect of his community and his village. “Winning the award means a lot to me at the personal level, and it is one of the most important events of my life, in fact a turning point. My life should be a little easier now after winning this prestigious award. I feel more energised now and want to plan for an exhibition at the Rashtrapati Bhavan!” He feels he has turned a corner with this award and is on his way up from the bottom. He had this to say on the occasion - “Jeena chahata hoon, daya nahin. Protsaahan chahata hoon, mujhe mayoos na kar. Meri himmat na tod. Ek aas abhi baaki hai. Jeetenge hum. Kyonki ek saans abhi baaki hai!”(I want to live. I need not pity but encouragement. Do not disappoint me. Do not discourage me. I have an aspiration to win, because there is still a breath left in me.)

AWARDSMASTERY AWARDPuja B. SubramaniamFor Puja Subramaniam, the award is a great motivator as well as a big responsibility. “I feel it my duty to be a better role model to my peers now on. At a professional and personal level, this award means better respect and trust from peers and clients, as I feel action is trusted more than words. This award would not have been possible without my mother and brother, who have always stood by me. It is important to accept your child and love him/her unconditionally. Then the child will love him/herself and see potential in self. If parents see the child as an achiever, the child will become one.” Puja feels a great sense of achievement at having won this award, in her words, “like seeing an oasis in the desert”.MASTERY AWARDZamir DhaleZamir Dhale oozes confidence and energy. Zamir admits he was confident that he would win the award, and while making him and his family very, very happy, it has left him fully charged to do more and more in the area of advocacy for the deaf blind population. He wants now to reach out to more and more of his peers and help them, their parents, special educators, policy makers and society to be more aware of their needs and potentials. His main aim is to advocate equal educational opportunities for all special needs especially the deaf blind population, who he feels, are neglected. He confidently relayed this message to the Chief Guest of the evening Shri Mukul Wasnik, Hon. Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Zamir has this message for all –“Helen Keller was the first deaf blind person to get recognition. I learnt from her and built up my confidence. I want all deafblind and disabled friends to be like her and overcome all sorrows and sadness, build self-confidence and become independent.”

- SAAZ AGGARWAL, GAYATHRI KIRAN, KALPAGAM SARMA


CARING CONCERNS

TOUCHING LIVESSteria focuses on setting up strategic partnerships with its customers in each of its key markets: the public sector, finance, telecommunications, utilities and transport. In October 2007, Steria acquired the British firm Xansa. The new group employs over 19,000 staff in 16 countries, including 5,000 in India.Steria India: With a 20 year history in delivering from India (erstwhile IIS Infotech and Xansa), Steria India drives real and long-term cost reductions and performance improvements. Today, Steria leads European IT service providers in their India presence with 30% of its global headcount in India. Steria India has close to 5,500 employees in India across delivery centres in Noida, Chennai and Pune.Dr. Mukesh Aghi, CEO, Steria India speaks to Success & ABILITYCould you please spell out the vision and philosophy of Steria in a nutshell.Group Steria has a vision ' to be recognised as the most attractive and innovative provider of IT enabled services In Europe'. Steria India corporate social responsibility (CSR) which is focused on 'education' for marginalised sections of society believes that 'every child has a right to a successful tomorrow and it is for every responsible adult to make this happen'. Steria is an equal opportunity employer in true sense, with absolutely no discrimination whatsoever on the basis of religion, sex, economic status, physical health, etc. We welcome the physically challenged and all our facilities around the world are disabled friendly. You have been an equal opportunity employer absorbing several qualified candidates with the right qualifications into your workforce… what is your take on this? How do you feel about absorbing persons with disabilities at various levels in your company?As mentioned earlier there is no discrimination and only merit and qualification determine selection. There is however a growing realisation within the company of the need to be more inclusive as more awareness comes in on

CARING CONCERNS the need to be more proactive in identifying, selecting, training and employing more candidates with physical disabilities. The company is slowly moving in the direction of making this a part of the HR policy of the company. Many companies seem reluctant to employ disabled people except as CSR initiatives. Don't you think that it is high time that disabled or non-disabled, the focus should be on qualifications and skills vis-à-vis job requirements? CSR is a good starting point and you can count on CSR to kick start this initiative. What happens after that is what makes all the difference. Within Steria we have been able to overcome resistance and a negative mindset to a very large extent and today only skills and qualifications matter. We are now trying to go one step forward and make a purposeful attempt to bring in more candidates from the ranks of the disabled. Our goal is to achieve 5% of total work force in the next 5 years. Does your company have a disability policy – on hiring, on accommodation, etc?No, there is no specific policy. Is a policy really necessary? In the absence of policy, however, all efforts are made to make the physically challenged feel at home. As mentioned earlier all our facilities are disable friendly. New policies and the associated changes will come in as we employ more disabled candidates. If so, what were the reasonable accommodations you had to make – in terms of screen reading software, ramps, sign language sensitivity, etc to create an inclusive environment in your office?We already have a substantially inclusive environment in our offices not only with regard to physical infrastructure but also attitudes, behavior and awareness among our staffWhat is your estimation of our job fair "EmployABILITY"? We also welcome your advice/suggestions on ways we could improve on what we do.Great Idea! Apart from this event, you could also be in constant touch over the mail with regular updates on availability of disabled candidates for employment. Companies have periodic cycles of recruitment mainly dependant on the flow of business, and one needs to be at it constantly and regularly so that one is able to achieve one's targets.Your advice/message to qualified persons with disabilities seeking jobs, on equipping themselves better to compete on par with their non-disabled peers.We always seek to tell them that they are not disabled - but specially abled. They are no different from you or me. While we may give them special treatment, it is sometimes required, they should not expect it and always be ready to compete on equal terms. Anything else you might like to add?We admire the work done by Ability Foundation. We are privileged to be associated with you and we shall be in touch always.


CARING CONCERNSwww.steria.comwww.steriaindiafoundation.orgTouching the lives of…India ImpactChildren 46000Hospital 3000Extended Staff 900Women & Rural Dev 4507 member CSR team with 600 + staff volunteersTotal Projects = 58Chennai 23 projects15 schools, 4 orphanages, 1 hospital, 3 in-house programmesNoida 19 projects9 schools, 3 orphanages, 4rural & slum projects - adult literacy, 3 in-house programmesPune 16 projects10 schools, 2 schools for special children, 1 orphanage, 3 in-house programmes

http://www.steriaindiafoundation.org/

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AWARENESS

A PHILOSOPHY CALLED MONTES- GAYATHRI KIRAN

“Gradually, we educators are confronted with a simple but important fact: to help the child is not what he needs and indeed to give that help is an impediment for the child. Therefore he must be allowed to act freely on his own initiative in this free environment." - Four Planes of Education: AMI, 1971 (Edinburgh and London lectures): p. 4” “Scientific observation has established that education is not what the teacher gives; education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences upon the environment. Human teachers can only help the great work that is being done, as servants help the master. Doing so, they will be witnesses to the unfolding of the human soul and to the rising of a New Man who will not be a victim of events but will have the clarity of vision to direct and shape the future of human society.”-Maria Montessori, Education for a New World. These are a couple of quotes from the works of a woman who strongly believed in what she said and practiced it. She not only practiced it, but also single-handedly gave us one of the soundest educational scientific methodologies of all times.

AWARENESSBackground Born in Chiaravalle in the Province of Ancona in 1870, Maria Montessori was the first woman to practise medicine in Italy, having graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Rome in 1896. As a physician, Dr. Montessori was in touch with young children and became profoundly interested in their development. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was the first woman medical graduate of Italy. She was influenced in a major way by the worlds of Itard and Seguin. She was actually not a teacher but an excellent scientist, first and foremost. She was deeply influenced by psychiatry, special education and anthropology. Building upon the works of Seguin, she developed a highly successful method of teaching children. In 1907, she opened the first Casa dei Bambini or House of Children ― as all Montessori Schools are called ― over the world, including in India. Much of her work with early childhood came from systematic scientific enquiry and above all, intense observation. In fact even now, a major part of any Montessori teacher training involves rigorous training in observation. In 1907,she was given the opportunity to study "normal" children, taking charge of fifty poor children from the dirty, desolate streets of the San Lorenzo slum on the outskirts of Rome. The news of the unprecedented success of her work in this Casa dei Bambini "House of Children" soon spread around the world. People came from far and wide, to see the children for themselves. Dr. Montessori was as astonished as anyone at the realised potential of these children; the child's way of learning. This is the path the child follows; he learns everything without knowing he is learning it and in doing so, passes from the unconscious to the conscious, treading always in the paths of joy and love. The India connection During World War II, Dr. Montessori was forced into exile from Italy because of her anti-fascist views and lived and worked in India. It was here that she developed her work; Education for Peace and developed many of the ideas that are taught in her training courses today. She was twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In India and Pakistan (part of pre-Independence India), the earliest Montessori Houses of Children were set-up by Maria Montessori herself between 1940-1948. Since then, these have made a slow but steady impression on preschool education. Recently, there has been a great resurgence of interest in this programme arising out of greater awareness of preschool education as well as disillusionment with the traditional preschool methods.Basic philosophy of education Dr. Montessori viewed the young child as having an inbuilt capacity for ― self development. According to her, the environment holds a secondary, but definite role in this pattern and can hinder or help but does not serve a creative function. As the child develops, he goes through a series of stages or sensitive periods, which determine his predisposition or readiness for particular types of learning. As he reaches this stage, the child seeks experiences that serve


AWARENESSthese purposes and are rewarding in themselves. Until the child is ready for a task, all that the teacher can do is wait for the child's inner life to organise itself. (Montessori, 1949.)Dr. Montessori believed that no human being is educated by another person. He must do it himself or it will never be done. A truly educated individual continues learning long after the hours and years he spends in the classroom because he is motivated from within by a natural curiosity and love for knowledge. Therefore, the goal of early childhood education should not be to fill the child with facts from a pre-school course of studies but rather to cultivate his own natural desire to learn.In the Montessori classroom this objective is approached in two ways; first by allowing each child to experience the excitement of learning by his own choice rather than by being forced and second, by helping him to perfect all his natural tools for learning so that his ability will be at maximum in future learning situations. The Montessori materials have this dual long-range purpose in addition to their immediate purpose of giving specific information to the child. Another observation of Dr.Montessori's, which has been reinforced by modern research is the importance of the sensitive periods for early learning. These are periods of intense fascination for learning a particular characteristic or skill, such as going up and down steps, putting things in order, counting or reading. It is easier for the child to learn a particular skill during the corresponding sensitive period than at any other time in his life. The Montessori classroom takes advantage of this fact by allowing the child freedom to select individual activities, which correspond to his own periods of interest. The Montessori approach offers a broad vision of education as an aid to life. It is designed to help children with their task of inner construction as they grow from childhood to maturity. It succeeds because it draws its principles from the natural development of the child. Its flexibility provides a matrix within which each individual child's inner directives freely guide the child towards wholesome growth.Planes of development and the Montessori Programmes The transformation of children from birth to adulthood occurs through a series of developmental planes. This concept is beautifully illustrated by drawing parallels between this development and the life stages of a butterfly. Each stage is similar to the metamorphosis of butterfly through it's various life stages- where the stages are very distinct, but yet built upon the earlier stage and following a described pattern.The four planes of development are said to be cyclical (each

AWARENESS plane is characterised by a period of construction, followed by a period of consolidation), sequential (each plane builds upon the foundation laid by the previous one) and distinct (each plane of development provides the optimal time for learning in specific areas). Montessori practice changes in scope and manner to embrace the child's changing characteristics and interests. The Absorbent mind (0 to 6 years)The first plane of development occurs from birth to age six. At this stage, children are sensorial explorers, constructing their intellects by absorbing every aspect of their environment, their language and their culture.The goals of the Montessori programme are to support sensori-motor, intellectual, language and moral development. The curriculam of the Montessori programme include exercises in practical life, muscular education, sensorial education, intellectual education, language education and the teaching of reading, writing and numeration. The exercises of practical life are those that help the child become autonomous and also help the child's entry to school by the presence of home-like-materials, which the child is familiar with. Sensorial materials include those for developing visual, auditory, tactile, thermic, taste and smell perceptions. Form, colour, height, weight, length and density are some of the concepts taught by the use of these materials. Advanced sensorial materials are also used for teaching language. There are exercises of practical life, sensorials, language, arithmetic and cultural extensions. Geography, history, biology, botany, zoology, art and music are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities. Children learn about other cultures, past and present. This allows their innate respect and love for their environment to flourish, creating a sense of solidarity with the global human family and its habitat. Experiences with nature in conjunction with the materials in the environment inspire a reverence for all life. History is presented to the children through art and an intelligent music programme. Most of these materials are auto educational and many are self-correcting. No group instructions are provided and the teacher's role is as minimal as possible, except when demonstrating and modeling the materials; verbal output is minimal and functional only. The Researcher (6-12 years)From age 6 to 12, children become conceptual explorers. They develop their powers of abstraction and imagination and apply their knowledge to discover and expand their worlds further.Elementary school children, typically, can be characterised by their questioning minds, their ability to abstract and imagine, their moral and social orientation and their unlimited


AWARENESSenergy for research and exploration. They move from the concrete through their own efforts and their discovery to the abstract - thus greatly expanding their field of knowledge.In a research style of learning, elementary school children work in small groups on a variety of projects, which spark the imagination and engage the intellect. Lessons given by a trained Montessori teacher, direct the children towards activities that help them to develop reasoning abilities and learn the arts of life. Children, at this age, are driven to understand the universe and their place in it and here, their capacity to assimilate all aspects of culture is boundless. Elementary studies include geography, biology, history, language, mathematics in all its branches, science, music and art. Exploration of each area is encouraged through trips outside the classroom to community resources, such as library, planetarium, botanical garden, science centre, factory, hospital, etc. This inclusive approach to education fosters a feeling of connectedness to all humanity and encourages their natural desire to make contributions to the world.The Explorer (12-18 years)The years between 12 and 18 see the children become humanistic explorers, seeking to understand their place in society and their opportunity to contribute to it.Dr. Montessori recommended that the adolescent should spend a period of time in the country away from the environment of the family. This would provide an opportunity to study civilisation through its origin in agriculture. She suggested they should live in a hostel which they would learn to manage and open a shop where sale of produce would bring in the fundamental mechanics of society, production and exchange on which economic life is based. She outlined a general plan for their studies and work but believed that the program which she called "Erdkinder" (German for "land children") could only be developed from experience. To conclude Though the common notion is that the Montessori methods are applicable only to preschoolers, we find that the Montessori method has been developed as a complete schooling process. A note of caution, however :the Montessori method seems to be running the risk of becoming isolated by its own mystique. If the method does not adapt towards progressiveness and does not allow changes in it's tools and techniques, it may lose out on a lot of innovation. This is a view put forth by a number of educationists and concurred with many who work with pre-school education –, that Montessorians are allowing themselves to be tied down by their own materials/manipulatives and methods. “Follow the Child” was the basic tenet of Montessori. One needs to understand the basic paradox central to the Montessori pedagogy; seeing the universal characteristics of all children, while at the same time, appreciating the child as a unique, respect-worthy individual. If this can be understood, Montessori becomes a complete method for educating our young and preparing them for tomorrow. If not, it stagnates ― choked so hard by it's own materials and apparatus that it ceases to function.Montessori is a philosophy of education in it's entirety and should not be limited to its materials. All technical details are sourced from http://www.montessori-ami.org/ and original texts of Dr. Maria Montessori.

MOVIE REVIEW

LOVE RULES THE WORLD- PRIYA KRISHNASWAMY

A peep into the life of people with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) opened to the world through celluloid with Dustin Hoffman's meaningful performance as a gifted autistic savant in Rainman in 1988. Twenty two years later, Karan Johar's, My Name is Khan, gives you a similar insight albeit fine entertainment. The movie is a fascinating love story of a person with disability, Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) and the struggle he goes through to win back his love and prove a religious purpose. With a touch of secular (in) tolerance, bringing back many unsaid and complex memories that anger/hatred between people can bring, the movie not only entertains but also mesmerises, enthrals and captivates. It is a road journey through a troubled post 9/11 America towards humanism and much needed forbearance.Khan moves to America after the death of his mother. His work helps him meet hairstylist Mandira (Kajol), a free-spirited woman who lives with her son Sam. After some predictable romancing, Mandira marries Khan. The happy existence of the couple is disturbed after the 9/11 attack in New York. Sam gets involved in a fight with a few seniors in college who beat him up because his second name is Khan. Sam dies and a shattered Mandira blames Khan and he being a muslim for the death of her son. Mandira insists that as long as he remains a 'Khan', he would be looked upon as a terrorist, even if he persuaded the US president otherwise. All muslims don't carry guns. All muslims don't understand war and killing. Undeniably, all muslims are not terrorists. That is the import of Khan's message, the one he picks up and walks with, through the length of America, in his search for justice and a fair hearing, which he believes only the president of the country can provide. He wants to meet Mr.President and tell him, "My Name is Khan, and I am not a terrorist". His touching and inspiring journey across the country is also to win the love of his life back, who like many others, blames religion for the tragic occurrences in many families including their own. Considering that people with AS experience difficulties to develop friendships or to share achievements with others, display lack of social or emotional reciprocity and impaired nonverbal behaviors in areas such as eye contact, facial expression, posture, and gesture, Khan's character serves as an eye-opener that given the right kind of environment (or sometimes even, the not-so-right), there is no stoppage to the achievement of an individual, he being disabled is merely by-the-way. The director portrays “inclusion” sensitively. A film like this is sure to have a far-reaching influence due to its elevated thinking. It serves as a bridge between human sentiments and indifference as well as between disabled & non-disabled people. A welcome break from the mundane monotony and clearly a rise above the ordinary.


SPOTLIGHT

A ROYAL & INCLUSIVE RETREAT FOR ALL- GAYATHRI KIRAN

The new ITC Royal Gardenia is a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel in Bengaluru. The hotel has a very beautiful interior and excellent ambience. However, there are two more important reasons why it is unusual or remarkable. One, it is a luxury hotel that has made the effort to be barrier free and accessible for the “special needs” clientele. Two, they have made positive efforts to be a sustainable eco-friendly building. ITC Royal Gardenia has been designed with an integrated approach towards minimising on level changes, thereby enhancing structural accessibility with a critical eye towards finishing, fixtures and aids; juxtaposed with assuring ease and convenience. This basically means that the ground levels of the hotel, including the main restaurants, Lotus and Cubbon Pavilion are all at one level, with minimum obstacles. This provides ease of movement for both guests and employees. The level access to the reception area is further assisted by a suitable reception height to ensure clarity of communication without any obstruction and a similar concept adopted in the 'Lobby' area. Access from the lobby towards the 'Lotus Pavilion' is leveled by a wooden platform (ramp) that

SPOTLIGHT breaks into a marble floor defining the space of the 'Lotus Pavilion' that acquires a central position at the 'Royal Gardenia'. The menu cards feature in large print and the cutlery available is easy and light to grip, providing a hassle-free dining experience. All corridors have slip resistant flooring and have been installed with 100 lux lighting. Internal doors and passenger lifts are adequately wide and spaced with illuminated lift controls and call buttons, audible and visual information and adequate timing device for all emergency communication system suitable for wheelchair users and for guests with impaired hearing. Stairs across the public, private and back areas of the hotel are equipped with hand rails on both sides with even, leveled, slip resistant landing areas. A dedicated elevator for people with disabilities comprising a panel that is strategically located on the left wall, to enable floor access with a key card and is situated at a convenient reach of 900 mm. Well-equiped cloakrooms for the disabled are located beside the all-day dining restaurant, Cubbon Pavilion and on the first floor of the banquet wing. The minimum dimension of a cloakroom is 6 X 6.5 ft, the cloakroom beside 'Cubbon Pavilion' measures 8 X 6.5 ft and the cloakroom dedicated for guests with disabilities at the banquet wing complies by the minimum area specifications furnished. Room number 1214 located on the 12th floor is a guest room dedicated for disabled persons. This apart, the user friendly INCOMM facility which is a touch point for all guest requirements including raising an alarm during fire is a common feature across all guest rooms. The fire alarm signal is a blinker in room number 1214 versus a sprinkler in other guest rooms. The wardrobe units with hangers are located beside the bathroom which is at a suitable access height of 900 mm and the 'El Safe' is at an accessible reach of 1100 mm. The width of the door is 1 mt to encourage comfort in entry, avoiding obstacles. Along with the various other barrier-free access, the emphasis on “responsible luxury” is another commendable feature. Hotel Royal Gardenia was conferred the highest rating for green buildings in the world – the LEED India Platinum Rating. This recognition makes it the world's largest platinum rated hotel and is yet another manifestation of ITC's leadership in sustainable practices The LEED Platinum Rating for the ITC Hotel is one more green milestone close on the heels of the ITC Green Centre at Gurgaon. This centre was chosen by the US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, to announce her vision on Indo-US collaboration on climate change during her recent visit to India. After a tour of the building she called it the “monument to the future”. ITC's exemplary commitment to green practices have also enabled it's hotel in Kolkata – the ITC Hotel Sonar to be the only hotel in the world to earn carbon credits. In keeping with the ITC Commitment to the “Triple Bottomline” philosophy, ITC Hotels have aspired to be an 'exemplar' in the service sector and provide leadership to positive environmental action in a sustainable manner. According to Chief Executive, ITC Hotels Division, Nakul Anand, “The ITC Royal Gardenia exemplifies ITC's vision and is perhaps the perfect example of finding a common rhythm between a man-made and natural environment. The challenge was to see how luxury and responsibility could be in harmony together. Thus a series of sustainable measures and practices were embraced to ensure that elements of nature were effectively harnessed at every level inside the luxury hotel”.


AMBALAL REAL ESTATES AD

PEOPLE & PLACES

BERLIN BROUGHT TO LIFE- HARI ADARSH SRIPATHI

The very name Berlin conjures up an image of metal boots and a wooden helmet marching down an ice-laden street with a grim impassive look on its face. Sixty years hence, the cliché of Berlin still remains. The sunny weather and balmy summer breeze do not hide the inherent frigid disposition of its denizens. Berlin is a city that has time and again made the mistake of purging its past. It was customary in the middle ages when new dynasties wanted history to start from them; it was also done as part of propaganda by the Nazis, but even today the present German leadership thinks it best to wipe off the World War defeats from history books and completely obliterate memories of a certain Adolf Hitler. What the Germans have done instead is made an abortive albeit commendable attempt to rebuild their city into a modern day metropolis and at the same time rejuvenate its pre-Nazi majesty. The years from 1914-1945 for which Germany is detested world over is desperately being forgotten. It does not take long to figure out the list of contributions Germany has made to the world. Einstein, Freud, Beethoven, Marx, Bismarck et al have luminated Germany's hall of fame and yet, a few dark years were enough for a great nation in the making to fall from grace and be condemned forever. But for being dragged down by history, Berlin could have been a match to Paris. Its Pergamon museum is commendable and offers the best original display of Greek history in the world. The Reichstag, Government buildings and the new Hauptbahnof would be masterpieces in any era. Berlin possesses vast lawns and lush foliage and is one of the least polluted capitals in the world. Its Unter den Linden is a clear match to Paris' Champs d'Elysees with the Brandenburg Gate, a perfect foil to the Arc De Triomphe, majestically imposing itself on the scene. And in Potsdam, it possesses a counterpart to Versailles. Ironically both world wars were decided by treatises in either locales. Both Potsdam and Versailles share an eerily similar history. If history gives a city character and brings it to life, Berlin has been condemned to suicide through erasing its past. The Berlin wall is all but a stub, an example of 'history cleansing' by the Germans. A photo exhibition on the holocaust tells you in passing about Himmler and Goering but blatantly leaves out their boss. You would even mistake the Berlin Wall as something relevant to the Nazis and not to the Cold


PEOPLE & PLACESWar. At places like Checkpoint Charlie subtle demarcations can be seen between the Soviet and the American spheres of influence as West Germany and East Germany converge. In the face of rigorous attempts to hide this difference, the tiny nuances become that more conspicuous. Germans are an enterprising lot nevertheless and they promise to bring to life a new Berlin, the most modern city in the world. Its scrupulous tidiness is unmatched in any other country. Berlin plans for the future with seven league boots ensuring that Germany remains a cut above its contemporaries. Their Parliaments for example, are undoubtedly the finest creations of the 20th century. They make an attempt never to be quiet, so that activity allows them to forget their terrible past and take pride in a ruthless efficiency. When I was there, over a weekend, two marathons were going on. I have also never seen so much sporting activity. No wonder Germany is a powerhouse in everything they do. However, beauty and tragedy are favorite companions. That is so poignantly underscored in Berlin - a city that started off to achieve the glory of Rome and London, but took a disastrous turn in the middle and ended up on the wrong side.

BOOK REVIEW

ARZEE THE DWARF

- PARESH PALICHA

ARZEE THE DWARFAUTHOR - Chandrahas ChoudhuryPAGES – 215PRICE - Rs 325PUBLISHER - HARPER COLLINS INDIA

The vulnerability one feels being physically abnormal in the so-called normal world or to put it simply the insecurity and fear of emotional and physical hurt one feels for owning a deformed and weak body, yet hiding it with built-up audacity and witticism is beautifully brought out in Chandrahas Choudhury's debut novel Arzee the Drawf. That is not all; the book also successfully brings out the fact that these people live life internally (in which everything is magnified or looked through the prism of their deformity) even if they pretend to be extroverted and out-going. They are like an iceberg, with only a small part of them being seen by the world. Arzee is employed as a deputy projectionist in a dilapidated cinema hall named Noor. He seems to be regaining his confidence after a failed love affair and is hoping to get a promotion, as the head projectionist seventy year old Phiroz has conveyed his desire to leave the job. Though unsure of the good times, he just boasts about it to his friends with whom he plays card games. The book is divided into thirteen chapters in which the author tries to provide us the experience of a roller-coaster ride ending one chapter on a happy note and the next one on despair. It tries to mingle the personal life of the protagonist with the atmospherics of the metropolitan Bombay (sic). But, all through the writer does not lose the meditative narration of Arzee's inner life.

The turmoil he is going through almost in a 'stream of consciousness' manner where a serious thought may end up rousing a chuckle in us or a seemingly lighter thought culminates with unexpected profundity. Sample Arzee's thoughts on reading the poster of breathing exercise recommended by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living;

The breath! Arzee had never really thought about breath – it seemed to take care of itself, so there was always something else to think about. He breathed deeply once or twice, but didn't feel any difference and he was too tired to hold out for longer. Idly he found himself wondering what brand of shampoo Sri Sri Ravi Shankar used. These things give a solid base to the character whether in his thought process or even in his dealing with others. The language used here is proper English, without peppering of local slang. But, that does not take away anything as far as representing low life of Mumbai is concerned; given the cosmopolitan nature of the city. There are characters doing cameo; like Arzee's cab driver friend Dashrath Tiwari, who doubles up as a dialogue writer of Bhojpuri films. Once they have zestful conversation in a roadside teashop past midnight about Arzee's depressing phase and vanish never to return. Arzee even fights against being stereotyped, so he slaps his girlfriend's father who tells him to go back to circus in a violent fury. Later he convinces us that the slap was unintentional. Likewise, the humiliation he feels when he has to dress up like the bottle of a newly launched soft-drink and stand outside malls on a daily basis for a good amount. Arzee the Dwarf is an extremely readable book for the empathy it has towards its eponymous lead.


PONDERINGS

ROUTINE THOUGHTS- MEERA BALACHANDER

If a thought process about something as routine as routine, can be dedicated to someone, I would do it to my father. Life in my parental home used to be punctuated by his routine. Rhythmic footsteps at 4.30 am sharp, walking from 6 am to 6.45 am, summer, winter or monsoon; at 8am sharp emerging footsteps from the bathroom, washed clothes in hand, 8.30 am at the breakfast table, at the same place, with the same pieces of crockery…and so the day would progress. His routine included catnaps while reading the newspaper and keeping an eye and ear open for my mother's well being which - included giving her tablets, encouragement, a joint peep into current affairs over breakfast and presiding over the family parliament after the 5 pm biscuits. He was loyal to routine to the spoonful and to the second.

I remember my grandmother's routine: it was as if each moment had a purity and personality of its own, the before-bath part of the day textured differently from the after-bath part. Morning had sanctity, fasts had sanctity. Lunch had sanctity and she relaxed after that. Evening likewise. I can almost smell the fragrance of the incense stick lit with the lamp at the same time, the serenity that enveloped the house with her chants... dramatically narrated bedtime epics cozily summed up the day's routine-the grandmother's and the little child's.

Little child… wonder what a child's routine would be like today. A packed day, with packed snacks, packed lunch and series of classes, competitions… like packets of fast food, the day parceled in packages. I guess the present day grandmother, in case she does catch an occasional glimpse of her grandchild's life, would herself be caught in it, like one of the sachets of chutney in Haldiram's readymix bhel. The 'Daily Grind' is not only about breakfast batters but better still, about the battering that the routine offers to school goers and officer goers alike.

Doing the same thing at the same time can be termed robotic, mechanical or mechanically robotic. Lack of imagination, creativity or just plain old laziness could find solace in routine. But then, nature devised the biological clock so that the planet wouldn't go haywire with mayhem and cross-purposing. Variety in species with varying routines created eco-balance. Hibernating polar bears, seeds-in-waiting, spawning salmons, the daily blooming hibiscus… each with a follow instincts… a nice code. Wonder what nature would have thought up for man if he were to obediently follow her code too?

A little tough on the imagination, given that man tirelessly aims to add variety to spice up life with inventions and contraventions, creating daylight in the dark, and hanky-pankying with spaces and species making life on Earth one big perpetual cake mixing ceremony. And in this mix-up we still need our little consistency which routine gives. Don't we wait for the bawling newborn to stop her nightly wakefulness and 'fall into a normal routine'? A friend married for 30 years says she and her husband play carom every evening exactly at 7. Another old couple plays cards just before bedtime. The morning tea-sharing couple; routine the wedding vow-keeper; a daily telephonic talk with a child or a daily visit to an old parent; a good morning, good night sms… same words perhaps, same contents and yet, as a friend put it, there is comfort in it. Perhaps we all have deep within us the insecurity of an autistic child for whom

the daily rhythm is all important to find a foothold in life. Routine as rhythm can turn into routine as ritual or rituals as routine. All of them have in common a lilting


PONDERINGS accent. If routine designs the day for some, rituals give shape and meaning to life for others. Like a well-fitting garment on the body. How tight or loose is well-fitting is of course each one's personal idea. Government offices favour the chalta hai casuals as collective uniform. As for time-table, that straight jacket of the school-goer, the word still hovers like a dark cloud in the psyche. Discipline and duty would go hand in glove with routine. Among the better known routine devotees would be Adi Shankaracharya. For the spiritually innocent, he equates sincerely done daily duties with meditation and a passport to nirvana.There are those who doze off noisily in the midst of their silent meditation; there are those who meditate silently in the midst of their noisy routine. Routine, in fact, is like a multi-layered ice cream or cake. It can have interesting combos like 'cleaning-listening to the news-sketching a new recipe in the mind' or 'cooking-reviewing yesterday's events – deciding what is important in life' or 'bathing – creating a new tune-measuring one's efficiency'. An astronaut, on a prolonged space mission, taking walks in space need not feel spaced out – to have a down to earth feel, he/she has only to devise a healthful, earthy routine. Another trail of thought would be that even the smallest task, however ordinary, should be done for its own sake, with perfection, and not as a decoy for hidden agenda – or routine. Breathe with awareness, clean with dedication and chant with devotion. The dusty connection to the nooks and corners of the house are as valuable as the visceral connection to one's innards while breathing or the spiritual link to the higher realm of existence while chanting. Routine the adjective, can sound deceptively boring. The bypassed routine medical exam brings about bypass surgery, a routine security drill can unearth a potential bomb, while an ignored routine spring cleaning could favour termites and terrorists alike. 'Why was the routine fire safety drill ignored?' is post-inferno fireworks. What exactly provides the strength in a well routined life? The comfort of certainty of a well defined way of life no doubt – as long as it is not an end to itself to have fitted today's 24 hours in the ledger, exactly like yesterday. A ditto, so to say. Going back in thoughts to my father, he continued to be as intrepid a thinker at 95 as he was way back when I was a timid school girl and he a busy government officer. Yet, this stickler- for- routine person would take time off his schedule to accompany me to school if a bully troubled me. Routine had empowered him then, and in his twilight years. Like say, the day was a series of dots to be joined, with dedication and awareness-and also-with spontaneous, creative squiggles and rounds to give it a wholesome feel. That is what made his brand of routine so appealing. His innocent looking catnaps recharged his grey cells. He could reconfigure ideas while munching the single Good day biscuit at 5 pm. Be flexible in the mind in an orderly way. Like being anchored yet sailing. I suspect he mulled over the deficiencies of the Union Budget or pondered the wonders of genetic engineering while making the 'U' turn with his walker. 'I can't afford weakened eyesight' he might have been telling himself, 'whom can I ask for a solution?'. Successfully finding solutions was his life long mission. Solutions…'Eureka' ! I need not elaborate on that famous by- product of routine!

FLIPSIDE

WEDDING IN THE FAMILY- GEETHA DOCTOR

There was a time when Kerala weddings were so simple that “blink!” and it was over. Everything was kept to the basics. The bride wore a simple pure off-white and gold bordered saree with gold ornaments, some jasmine in the hair and a demure air. The bridegroom was similarly attired in a white mundu, shiny silk shirt, Himalayan bouquet snow in his hair and Cuticura powder whitening his face, sporting a tiny moustache known as “podi meesha” which he would have trimmed with a pair of razor sharp nail scissors made in China. The main event would be the tying of a bride chain or “thali” that consisted of a gold chain and gold ornaments that were special to whatever community that they belonged. The only tricky part was when the bridegroom had to hook the thali, around the bride's neck while the drummers and Nadaswaram players, were instructed to create a terrific din. In some communities, the ladies also set up a dreadful howl with their tongues being flapped back and forth, to keep the evil spirits out of the way at the auspicious moment. This was then followed by a grand feast.So, when my niece who had already found her bridegroom and been married to him in a civil ceremony in the USA, as befitted two naturalised citizens of that country, said she wanted a Kerala style wedding in India, I had no second thoughts. Why not!What I had not factored was that there is now a trend for “global weddings” that involve a cast of people from all over the world who have to be dressed and made to participate in all the different events. In the case of a cousin in Mumbai, the bride's family had left their small town in Mid-Western America to attend a traditional Indian wedding at my cousin's apartment. The morning of the wedding, a specialist in saree tying had come in and draped more than twenty Americans into their blouses, petticoats and sarees of course. The men wore Fab india kurtas and pyjamas. The bride's sister, young and buxom with all the genes inherited from her Swedish ancestors who had originally settled in the Mid-West, had however not found a blouse that fitted her. Much to everyone's shock and horror she appeared at the ceremony, not just blouse-less, but bra-less with the saree draped casually over one shoulder. It created such a sensation, that alas, even the Arya Samaj priest could not concentrate on his usual spiel and kept putting the ghee over the wrong set of bricks, nearly setting the place on fire. Of course, many of the guests thought it was the best wedding ever in terms of scenic beauty Mid-Western American style. My niece's issues were on a smaller scale.She wanted an “authentic” Kerala style thali, the small pieces that are strung from a chain. To this end, she would stare fixedly at an appropriate victim, usually an aunt or distant cousin, much as you might watch a bloodsucker looking at a fly and then lunge forward with her camera or Blackberry and take a snapshot. Of course, the easier route of finding one at a jewellery store was not an option because these are now machine made and not very attractive.Having zeroed down on what she felt was a good design, I did not point out that most of these traditional thalis are phallic symbols, since being an emancipated young woman, she would have been shocked at wearing the


FLIPSIDEmale member so blatantly around her dainty American neck. She went ahead and ordered the triple ornament thali with a Tamilian jeweller, without specifying the size. The Kerala ones are about half in an inch long or perhaps even less, so they look quite innocuous. When she finally got her thali, it was not only three inches long, its shape like a long hanging tongue, with two golden balls by the side, made it obscenely evident of what it represented! Needless to say, it all ended in tears. There was then the case of the missing Nadaswaram tape. As everyone knows the Nadaswaram is a long wind-pipe that can sound very impressive when played in the open precincts of a temple by an expert. However, in most cases it can also sound like the howl of wolves waiting to close in upon their prey. At a given signal, just as the crucial moment for the tying of the thali approaches, the Nadaswaram player is supposed to jerk the older members of the family into paying proper attention by making the appropriate shrieking and wailing sounds. Since my niece was already married, one of the several event managers that she had roped in was of the opinion that what was needed for the occasion was a tape with the soothing chanting of thethousand names of Vishnu by Kishori Amaonkar. There she was mistaken. Another older and more traditionally inclined manager of wedding ceremonies had gone to the trouble of taping a nadaswaram player and his drummers. When she found that Kishori was resting securely in the nest of the tape recorder waiting to be switched on, as it were, she swooped down and ejected her from her place and put in her Nadaswaram tape. When the first event manager who had her finger on the tape found this out, by accidently activating the tape, she was so enraged she did another quick switch. Kishori was re-instated, but no one knew this as yet. Meanwhile, the bridegroom had been put into position within the beautifully decorated mandap, surrounded by garlands of yellow marigolds, tube roses, red roses and green mango leaves. As the bride's party waited in the adjoining room, waiting for the Nadaswaram tape to be turned on, all they could hear was Kishori's melodious chanting. “Where's the Nadaswaram!” asked event manager number two, “we can't start without it.” She had turned a shade of rich magenta, when event manager number one told her that the tape had no sounds on it. It was a blank tape. “Nada! nada!” ,wailed the bride who is a scholar in Spanish.“What nada? What nada? Has she broken the string of her petticoat?”, wondered the older ladies in the audience. Finally of course she came out looking radiant. The couple exchanged rings, they garlanded each other with flowers and all the elders in the family came to sprinkle rice and bless the twice married bride and groom. In spite of all the hurdles, it was a wedding ceremony to remember.

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