Asha Bhavan launched the campaign called “A World Without Barriers” through a glittering ceremony on 15th October 2006. The event was inaugurated by Mr. Russy Modi, the doyen of Indian Industry and a highly respected public personality.

What is A World Without Barriers Campaign?

A World Without Barriers is a campaign being launched by Asha Bhavan Centre with an aim of improving access and opportunities to vulnerable and handicapped persons. Through the campaign, we are aspiring for a society where disabled and handicapped persons are able to access their rights and receive opportunities for self development, making them productively contribute to the growth of the society. This can happen only if all the members of the society consciously work and commit ourselves to ensure that every one receives equal opportunities in life.

Who can be involved in this campaign?

Any one, who comes with commitment and compassion, can join this movement. We particularly invite the corporate heads and celebrity social leaders to usher the change process for a barrier free access through their active participation. An example set by such leaders of the society will have a huge impact and ripple effect on the society in general.

Where will the campaign take place?

The campaign is being launched in Kolkata. In the months to come, we have plans to take this throughout India. We will take this campaign to schools and other educational institutions, general public, government agencies, business sector, media and grassroots.

How can you be involved in this campaign?

This campaign requires huge investments, both time and money. You can be involved in many ways, like:

•     Volunteer and give your valuable time and intellect to drive this campaign
•     Sponsor disabled or handicapped children, ensure their growth and development
•     Generously donate to this cause
•     Identify yourself with this concept, start practicing it at home and workplace

I am a corporate representative. What do I get back by investing in this development process?

We are sure that you believe in corporate citizenship and the associated social responsibilities. Many of you must have already adopted CSR as a corporate policy.

Business thrives in good economies. Economic development is directly related to productivity. Increased productivity leads to increased income. Increased income leads to bigger market. Business develops in bigger markets. Almost 80 percent of India is rural. Nearly 400 million people lead a life of subsistence. Today, all major business houses are planning to go rural. However, rural society has to be equipped to absorb the impact of the market. The investments can be justified only if rural economy is buoyant.

Thus, it is not just philanthropy but a pragmatic business approach to invest in building rural sector and removing poverty. In next ten years, we need lots of people to cater our growing rural segments. These people should ideally come from rural background. For that we need to build their capacities. We have to invest in their education, growth and development. One rupee invested today in social development will fetch business ten rupees tomorrow! Removing vulnerabilities and ensuring equal access will make the rural society confident. Their confidence results in improved productivity.

This social cycle based on business model is what corporate bodies get in return. Added benefits include enhanced value in terms of image, stakeholder satisfaction and feel good factor, not to mention tax benefits!

I am from a school in Kolkata. How Do I get involved in the campaign?

Asha Bhavan is organizing a series of sensitizing workshops for school teachers and school children. Last year, over 100 children were given orientation on disability and this year, the sensitization program is getting higher in coverage and intensity, ensuring that disability is understood and appreciated at all walks of life and schools become inclusive for disabled children, creating an enabling environment for them to grow and develop like any others. Please contact our city office for more details and when the next set of training will happen.