From Kashmir to Kanniyakumari for a more inclusive society

Boniface Prabhu, who holds the unique honour of being the first Indian to win a medal at the International Paralympic Games, is considered a pioneer of quadriplegic wheelchair tennis in India, having represented the country at several international events in six disciplines. Tennis apart, the sporting icon and Padma Shri awardee has been a strong advocate for a more inclusive society by creating awareness and educating the public about PWDs in the country. As part of his most recent effort, Thums Up Veer Kashmir to Kanniyakumari Mission, he set off from Kashmir on November 9 on a 4,500-km-long road trip across the length and breadth of the country in an effort to increase awareness about the rights, needs and aspirations of PWDs. 

“During my matches and my personal visits — be it to public places or theatres or hotels, I’m constantly reminded that I am a disabled person. I wondered the plight of regular disabled people, when I as a noted person go through so many hassles in everyday life. That’s when I felt the need to embark on this journey. We have many laws and acts like The Persons With Disabilities Act, 1995. However, there is a lack of knowledge and awareness in society about disabled persons. That is the first step for a more inclusive society. We’re not saying move the mountains. You’ve created a mountain, just create the access to get around it,” explains Boniface, who will inaugurate a pilot project in learning disability with American India Foundation (AIF) on December 5 in the city. 

AIF in association with Cheshire Home will also impart skill development training to 10 youths (18 and above age), who will be supported by the foundation in their job placements as well. The training will be given at the Development Education Centre, The Anbalaya Special School for the Mentally Challenged Children, in Thiruvottiyur. As part of his expedition, Boniface has been meeting with hundreds of people, including students, government officials and civil society workers. He hopes to assist in the training of nearly 10,000 people in sign language. Campaign VEER also aims to address challenges related to inclusive education and employment, skill training and development, and disabled-friendly technology. He adds, “It’s about time we stopped blaming the government for everything. The Prime Minister has laid the seed by launching a scheme like Accessible India. Now it is our turn to make the best of the opportunity.” 

Prabhu is driving with his friend Murali and a team in a specially modified seven geared automated car. He rides in the morning and rest of the day he attends events interacting with people. He is expected to finish the expedition on December 7. However, he says, the journey doesn’t end, rather begin thereafter. “Until we create an environment in which a disabled person and one with all bodily functions and skills intact can walk together, see together and talk together, without having to depend on each other, the journey doesn’t end,” he concludes.