Forty-three-year-old Raju is a resident of Bangalore, Karnataka. He was diagnosed with Glaucoma at an early age after he faced vision problems in his right eye. Due to financial constraints in the family, Raju took up an office assistant’s job after finishing Class X. He faced difficulties in performing the tasks, especially running errands assigned to him but somehow, he carried on till he was 35. This work helped him provide for his family including education of his daughters.

But when Raju’s vision began to deteriorate at a rapid pace, things became unmanageable and he was forced to resign from the job. Following a friend’s advice, he pursued a rehabilitation programme including basic computer training. Through an NGO, he also got a livelihood opportunity by selling masks during the pandemic.

However, Raju was keen on finding a full-time role and he put out his requirement on Namma Vaani, a moderated audio-based platform for persons with disabilities looking for varied solutions. The Eyeway Helpdesk counselor came across his recorded message and contacted him to further understand his needs.

During the telephonic interactions, the counselor realized that Raju had no information about how to avail social security schemes and other government benefits. He was therefore advised to apply for a Unique Disability Identification card through which he could seek subsidies and concessions. Raju was also asked to subscribe to Eyeway’s WhatsApp messaging service where he receives regular updates related to news, technology, training and jobs.

Meanwhile, Raju’s daughter has completed her education and taken up a job to support the family. But Raju remains determined to engage in gainful employment so that his daughters are not burdened by this responsibility.