“Aramba swayudga kendra,” both established by the disabled Entrepreneurship and Leadership Foundation in seven taluks of Gadag district, are dedicated to empowering differently-abled individuals. These centers focus on providing life-sustaining training programs, including dairy training, tailoring, bread making, candle making, and beekeeping, enabling the differently-abled to engage in productive activities.
These ASK Centers serve as comprehensive resources, offering invaluable information and support for all aspects of disability. They are strategically located in 7 taluks: Gadag, Mundaragi, Shirahatti, Gajendragad, Naragunda, Rona, and Laxmeshwar, making their services accessible to all differently-abled individuals in Gadag district.
As an example, an ASK Kendra has been established within the Farmer Extension Center of Gadag Taluk, courtesy of the Deal Foundation. This initiative provides a platform for disabled individuals to kick-start their professional lives. Nirmala, the livelihood officer of Gadag Taluk, has spearheaded the formation of self-help organizations for disabled individuals and women, offering them training in livelihood activities through the foundation. Notably, organizations like “Samartha Vikalchetana Mahila Swasahay Sangh” and “Samriddhi Disability Men’s Self-Help Group” have received training in paper bag production at these Ask Centers and have begun selling their products. “Kalyana Basaveshwar Swa Sahay Sangha” has also initiated a job utilizing a roti machine, supported by the Deal Foundation and Selco Company. These endeavours aim to empower individuals financially and inspire others as role models.
Furthermore, the ASK Centers offer a range of products for sale, including dolls, honey, counting items, candles, bags, and agricultural essentials like earthworm fertilizer and seeds.
The Deal Foundation is diligently working to establish a department within the Gadag ASK Center for the production of equipment tailored to the needs of physically challenged individuals, particularly in the field of prosthetic and orthotic technology.
Prosthetics involve the replacement of missing body parts with artificial joints, employing technologies like trans-radial, transhumeral, and transtibial prosthetics.
Transradial prosthetics are artificial arms designed to attach below the elbow.
Transhumeral prosthetics are artificial arms used above the elbow and below the shoulder.
Transtibial prosthetics are artificial legs designed for below-the-knee amputations.
The Deal Foundation’s efforts have already had a profound impact on the lives of many, such as Mr. Manjunath Bangla from Mevundi village, who was able to regain his independence thanks to a transhumeral prosthetic. With this, he now operates a solo-owned cold drink shop and can drive a two-wheeler independently, showcasing his financial self-sufficiency.
Looking ahead, the Deal Foundation aims to manufacture agricultural equipment that benefits disabled farmers and women, including tools like hand ridgers, fruit harvesters, sugarcane strippers, and chickpea decorticaters.
In summary, the Deal Foundation’s mission is to empower differently-abled individuals and improve their economic well-being. They aspire to create opportunities and enhance the livelihoods of disabled individuals while promoting their inclusion in various fields. This noble endeavor is a source of pride for both SIDBI and the Deal Foundation, and it represents a strong foundation for the prosperity of all involved.
For further information or specific inquiries, please contact info@deal-foundation.com or visit www.deal-foundation.com.
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