Helping the differently-abled in this entrepreneurial world
Around 4-5% of India’s population is differently-abled, and a sizeable segment within this group has enough entrepreneurial skill and business acumen. It’s time we did our bit to help nurture that talent.
AJAY CHHANGANI
The entrepreneurship ethos in India has come a long way, and has made rapid strides in recent years. India is brimming with entrepreneurs and now ranks fifth in the start-up communities of the world. For the youth of India, entrepreneurship holds immense value just as government jobs did in the past. However, there is one significant percentage of the population whose need for meaningful employment largely remains unmet.
According to Census 2011, in India there are 2.68 crore persons with disability, making the disability sector estimated at 4-5% of the population. Out of these, 1.34 crore persons are in the employable age of 15-59 years, and approximately 99 lakh persons are marginal workers or non-workers. As 68% of India’s population lives in rural areas, the percentage of disabled is high in areas projecting low economic, health and social conditions, and is among the poorest in the population.
Moreover, the lack of awareness regarding skill development and training among the differently-abled contributes to them being significantly disconnected from skills and markets. Combined with existing nonhomogeneous training that lacks quality — especially when it comes to employability, improving employment opportunities for people with disability becomes a critical element. The need to scale up skill training infrastructure in view of the huge demand-supply gap has to be addressed.
Differently-abled individuals, too, have a strong desire to work and achieve economic independence, and seek to become entrepreneurs themselves. Upgrading existing training institutes will not only augment the quality of life for individuals with disability and their families, but there are also substantial gains for the broader economy.
In view of the current situation, India launched a new National Action Plan for Skill Training of Persons with Disabilities (2015). Under this plan, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Dis- ability collaborated to train 2.5 million persons with disabilities over the next seven years.
Today, due to greater awareness there has been an increase in the number of businesses owned and operated by people with disabilities.
Starting a business can be a great opportunity for many people with disabilities. In addition to meeting career aspirations and goals, entrepreneurship can provide benefits such as work flexibility and financial stability. Despite the numerous challenges involved, people with disabilities are succeeding at their own businesses at an incredible rate.
Determination and stamina are major assets when it comes to success. It involves investment in terms not only of time, but of effort and money. As India becomes the global start- up hub, differently-abled individuals are also seeking financial independence, with a desire to contribute to the economic success of the country. Like every other entrepreneur, they are working zealously to achieve success, growth and visibility in the rat race.
Differently-abled individuals also need an economic safety-net. There are a number of both government and government-authorised skill training courses, financial programs, and resources that can help people with disabilities to start and operate their own business. These resources can help to provide things such as business operating information, business and market development advice, and much more.
Many vocational and skill training organisations are dedicated to helping people with disabilities maximise their potential in the business world, to work with vocational rehabilitation, business and government. They encourage the participation and enhancement of people with disabilities in the workforce.
The recognition of the need for better infrastructure and resources, and the implementation of various government strategies and plans is creating many opportunities for individuals with disabilities looking for employment opportunities, especially entrepreneurs. The community, including the government and various stakeholders in the education and training sectors have contributed immensely in the initiative to ensure that differently-abled individuals see a brighter future, and lead an enriched, independent life. The writer is the CEO & co-founder of Rural Institute of Skill & Enterprise Development of India
Differently-abled individuals too need an economic safety-net.There are a number of both government and government-authorised skill training courses, financial programs, and resources that can help people with disabilities to start and operate their own business.