Empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
Creating Inclusive and Dignified Rural Lives in Boudh, Odisha
At CARD (Center for Agriculture and Rural Development), we believe that every individual has the right to live with dignity, independence, and equal opportunity—regardless of physical, sensory, cognitive, or developmental challenges. In rural areas like Boudh, Odisha, persons with disabilities (PwDs) often face social exclusion, poverty, and a lack of access to essential services.
Through our inclusive development initiatives, CARD is working to ensure that no one is left behind.
Why Our Work Matters
According to Census data, over 2.68 crore persons in India live with some form of disability—many of whom live in rural areas with limited access to healthcare, education, employment, and mobility support. In Odisha, these challenges are compounded by deep-rooted stigma, poor infrastructure, and a lack of awareness.
At CARD, we strive to transform the lives of persons with disabilities by creating inclusive systems, building awareness, and enabling economic independence.
Our Focus Areas
1. Identification and Community Mobilization
We begin by identifying and registering persons with disabilities in rural communities, often overlooked in government databases. This helps ensure they can:
a. Access disability certificates and entitlements.
b. Join self-help groups and local development activities.
c. Be recognized as equal members of their communities.
2. Inclusive Education Support
Education is the first step to empowerment. CARD advocates for and facilitates:
a. Enrolment of children with disabilities in mainstream schools.
b. Special education support, home-based learning, and mobility aids.
c. Teacher sensitization programs to create inclusive classrooms.
3. Livelihoods and Skills Training
We believe that economic empowerment leads to social empowerment. CARD offers:
a. Vocational training tailored for persons with disabilities.
b. Access to self-employment schemes and SHGs (Self Help Groups).
c. Support in accessible farming techniques, microenterprises, and small-scale businesses.
4. Health and Rehabilitation Services
We work with medical professionals and rehabilitation experts to provide:
a. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, calipers, etc.
b. Community-based rehabilitation (CBR) services in remote villages.
c. Access to regular medical camps, therapy sessions, and follow-ups.
5. Rights Awareness and Advocacy
We empower persons with disabilities and their families to:
a. Know and claim their rights under laws like the RPwD Act, 2016.
b. Participate in Gram Sabhas and local governance bodies.
c. Advocate for accessible public spaces and services in their villages.
Our Impact in Boudh, Odisha
Over the years, CARD has supported more than 1,200 persons with disabilities across the district, helping them access disability pensions, healthcare, assistive technologies, and livelihoods.
Our efforts have led to:
a. Reduced stigma and discrimination within families and communities.
b. Increased school attendance of children with disabilities.
c. A growing number of PwDs becoming economically self-reliant.
Each success story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit when given the right support and opportunities.
Inclusion Is a Journey, Not a Destination
At CARD, we believe inclusion is not just about infrastructure—it’s about attitude, empathy, and action. Our team works closely with community leaders, Anganwadi workers, ASHAs, educators, and local governance structures to embed inclusion in every layer of rural life.
Collaborations and Partners
We collaborate with:
a. Government departments such as the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD), Odisha.
b. Rehabilitation centers and disability rights organizations.
c. CSR partners and donors focused on inclusive development.
These partnerships help us scale our impact and reach more underserved individuals in remote areas.
How You Can Help
Together, we can create a society where disability is not a barrier to opportunity.
🔹 Donate to provide assistive devices, training, and medical care.
🔹 Volunteer your time to mentor or support community activities.
🔹 Partner with us to design accessible programs or sponsor PwD initiatives.
Contact Us
CARD (Center for Agriculture and Rural Development)
Boudh, Odisha, India
📧 info@cardngo.org
📞 000000357
🌐 cardngo.org
Follow us on social media for real-time updates and stories from the ground.
