Written By: Dr. C. R. Desai

WE taught Aditi to swim. She brought the roof down till she overcame the fear of water; once she did that, she took to swimming like a fish to water. We started taking her to swimming competitions. It did not matter to her whether it was the first prize or a consolation prize. She just loved to go on stage and be cheered. We then had to celebrate it by taking her out for dinner.

We noticed that she was happy to go to the special school and spend time with her peers. Neelima got a group of parents together and motivated them to take our children out for small walks on the hills around Pune. They loved wearing proper shoes and a cap and carrying a shoulder bag with a water bottle. When the parents dropped them at the designated spot, the children happily waved them goodbye. We walked at their pace. They loved to be with nature. We taught them to identify plants, flowers and birds. The small trek ended with a cup of tea and some snacks. They seemed to love it.

The small steps

The group started growing; almost 30 IDs gathered every Sunday for the trek. We pushed them a bit more each time. They never failed to surprise us. By the end of six months, almost all of them could walk about 15 kilometres on one trip. An adventurer at heart, Neelima, along with a few parents, planned a four-day walkathon. Except our special friends, everyone told Neelima that it was too ambitious. She convinced the parents and got a thumbs-up from all of them.

The first miracle

On November 27, 2003, we walked from Pune to Lonavala, a distance of 64 kilometres in three and a half days. All along the way, we got a rousing welcome from people who had gathered to witness this miracle. Parents had come to pick up their child at Lonavala. They could not believe that their child had done the impossible. For the first time, the parents were proud of their ID child. The children were basking in the glory; they knew that, finally, they had been accepted for what they are. That day Lonavala was wet with tears of joy.

Taking courage from this experience, we organised a Parvati Hill climbing competition. Of course, no one thought we could pull it off, except our special friends. More than two hundred special friends from in and around Pune participated in this event. We took utmost care to see that any special friend who needed special assistance had the support of a volunteer. There were doctors and even an ambulance ready to cover any mishap.

Shocking surprise

We were in for a shock: the special friend who got the first prize did it in just 2.5 minutes!! People who have climbed the Parvati Hill can understand the significance. We have been conducting this activity for 15 years now; participation only kept increasing. This year, we had 57 Autism Spectrum children participating in the event.

India’s first exclusive club

We started the first-ever adventure club for IDs. Our special friends have been to the Himalayas eight times for high-altitude trekking. They’ve done rock climbing, rappelling, zorbing, river crossing, para-gliding and para-sailing.

We got to spend hours and days with thousands of IDs. We lived with them, laughed with them and cried with them. We got to see the world through their eyes. It was a sharp learning curve.

Sharp learning curve

In 2003, we started a day-care centre. We taught the IDs some academics and made them appear for school examinations. Some of them reached the 9th standard; of course, with assistance. Most of them did not understand what they were doing and why they were doing it. We started a sheltered workshop. We made candles, agarbattis, paper lanterns and so on. We sold them as products made by our special friends. We got a popcorn-making machine and literally stood outside theatres to sell them. A kind organisation donated us a semi-automatic press on which we could make rubber products. We bought the raw material and moulds. Our special friends had great difficulty operating it; there were a lot of rejections and waste. The finished product would fetch us 3 paise per piece; today, we get 10 paise for a similar job. After hours of work, we could not even recover the cost of the raw material. Our special friends were blissfully unaware of all this; they had no clue about the concept of money. They worked in the workshop for some time and then got distracted. The special educators and helpers had to spend more time finishing the products to make them sellable.

We were learning a lot. Our special friends would work for a few hours in the workshop, waiting for the dance or singing teacher to come; then they would be full of enthusiasm. We had started the sheltered workshop to prove to the world that our special friends could become productive members of society. The sale of our products could not even pay the salary of one special educator. Our products were bought not because they were good but because they were made by IDs. Barring a few, very few, our special friends could not understand money. They did not understand why they were making these black rubber things and why most of them had to be thrown away—rejected. The workshop would never become self-sustaining unless the special educators and helpers did most of the work. Whom were we fooling other than ourselves?

We asked ourselves some serious questions. Were we imposing our ideas of normalcy on our special friends? Did they understand the concept of dignity of labour? Could our special friends ever earn enough to live by themselves? Are we trying to fix a square peg into a round hole?

By this time, we had worked with thousands of IDs belonging to all categories. We learnt that when we break down the problem to the basics, there are only two types of IDs: those who can live by themselves and those who need assisted living for life. 99% of IDs belong to the latter category. This brought in a lot of clarity. In 2007, we started Navkshitij, our residential rehabilitation centre for intellectually disabled adults (IDs above age 18).

Difference between IDs and the mentally ill

Right at the outset, we were clear that Navkshitij would focus solely on IDs, the intellectually challenged, and not on the mentally ill. In the case of mental illness, the emotions, mood, perceptions and behaviour of a person are affected. These can be treated. A mentally ill person can manage the symptoms and lead a normal independent life. An ID, on the other hand, has problems with basic learning and understanding, processing information, communication, social skills and performing day-to-day activities. The condition is permanent and not curable. At best, an ID can learn life skills to cope with daily living and execute them with help or supervision.

Our learning continued…

Read Previous Blogs:

Through the eyes of a parent

Rehabilitation and Inclusivity: An Introduction

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate– Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve. Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement. Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work. #BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

Follow on LinkedIn: Dr. C. R. Desai

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Reading Time 6–7 mins)

Blog 1

NEELIMA and I, both post-graduates in medicine, got married in 1982. We set up practice and started the regular struggle of a middle-class family; taking loans, digging holes and running fast to fill them. In 1984, we were blessed with our first daughter, Noopur, a pure bundle of joy. Life was an uninterrupted picnic. In 1987, we were blessed with our second daughter, Aditi and the world came crashing down on us. Aditi was a blue baby, with a compromised blood supply to the brain. It took us some time to realise that she was Intellectually Disabled; it took us almost 14 years to accept it.

We ran from pillar to post; Modern Medicine, Ayurveda, Acupressure, Kinesiology… Nothing seemed to work. We then went to temples and did poojas. We tried literally everything from Allopathy to Tirupati. We then took it up as a mission. We were ready to do what it took to make Aditi normal. Ayurveda massage, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dance therapy, music therapy. We had read a book What To Do About Your Brain-Damaged Child by Glen Doman. We made hundreds of cards and kept showing her these cards every day; God knows what she understood, but we didn’t relent.

Inclusivity: The first attempts

We put her in a nursery where she enjoyed herself, but at age six she was just too old to belong there.

So we put Aditi in an inclusive normal school so that she would spend time with normal children. We thought she would learn to be normal. The effect was quite the opposite. She became painfully aware of the fact that she was abnormal. Her problem of bed wetting resurfaced. She started throwing tantrums. She learnt that the only way to stop people correcting her at every opportunity was to yell loudly and throw tantrums. Her behavioural issues multiplied. We quietly withdrew her from the school. She now started going to a special school. Our efforts with all therapies continued.

We took her wherever we went. We took her on picnics, treks and long holidays. Noopur just loved Aditi; of course, Aditi tried her best to irritate her—that was her attention-seeking behaviour. Our family was a package deal. We wouldn’t go to any function without Aditi. It separated the grain from the chaff. Many of our friends distanced themselves from us. Those we were left with became Aditi’s friends for life; they had accepted her as she was.

Realisation and acceptance

I remember that day so clearly. Neelima was trying to read out a story to Aditi. Aditi was trying her best to irritate her, frustrating all her efforts. It was taking a toll on both. I could sense the tension mounting. That is when I had a flash of understanding. I called Neelima out, put an arm around her shoulders and said “Aditi has accepted all of us as we are; why can’t we as parents extend her the same courtesy? Why can’t we just accept her as she is? Why are we trying to make her like us? We are trying to make her do what we want. Can we take a step back and try to find out what she wants?” There were tears in Neelima’s eyes. We stayed like that for some time; the message was sinking in. Then she started sobbing. “We have been torturing this girl for fourteen years trying to make her like us.” I kept quiet. After some time, I could feel her breathe a sigh of relief. She shook her head and said, “Not anymore.” That was the day we truly understood our daughter; life changed for all of us.

We went back into the room; Aditi was looking at us quizzically. We gave her a big hug, a group hug; tears streaming down our eyes. At first, she was taken aback, a bit confused and then she burst into a smile. She broke away from us and started dancing, running all over the room and laughing loudly. “Oh my God! You have finally understood what I have been telling you for years. Please let me be myself, I am good as I am.” There was no trace of accusation in her eyes. She was plain relieved that we had given ourselves the liberty of seeing the world through her eyes.

We, as parents, want our children to study, get a degree, get a job and start earning. We want them to get married, set up a family, have children and lead a normal life. With help from society, most differently-abled people like those with physical or visual handicaps or hearing impairment can be trained to get normal jobs and fulfil the formula for normal people. They can be included and absorbed into the normal society with impairment-inclusive buildings improving accessibility. Advances in computer technology have made it possible for the visually impaired and hearing impaired to get respectable jobs in banks and the IT industry. It is their right to get higher education and deserving jobs, and lead a normal life. Many corporates under their CSR are a big help in the effort to rehabilitate the differently-abled. The efforts of the whole society are moving towards an inclusive world where the differently-abled are offered an equal opportunity to use their other abilities to create a new life for themselves and be included as a normal person in society.

Inclusivity is not a one-size-fits-all solution

This isn’t, however, a one-size-fits-all solution, especially when it comes to the intellectually disabled. We need a different understanding and definition of rehabilitation and also of inclusivity. The world of an ID is quite different. We have to see the world through their eyes to see what they would want for themselves.

It is said that when you go fishing, you should use what the fish likes as bait, not what you like. Let us make an effort to find out what the IDs like. Welcome to the world of the Intellectually Disabled.

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Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate– Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve. Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement. Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work. #BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Reading Time 6–7 mins)

REHABILITATION of Persons with Disabilities means creating a space in which the impact of the disability is mitigated and the person gets a fair chance to explore his or her abilities. In the case of physical disabilities, improving accessibility to every public facility serves the purpose to a large extent. In the case of the visually impaired, having audio instructions and creating computers that work through audio feedback have done wonders. They are now working in banks, back offices and corporates. The hearing impaired communicate with sign language and can easily learn to operate computers and find employment. The government is making all efforts to improve facilities in schools, colleges and government offices. Inclusive schools and job quotas for the disabled have helped in levelling the playing field for the disabled. They can now educate themselves, get a decent job, become self-sufficient and lead as normal a life as possible. In their case, we need to educate, empower, equip and employ them and then give them a chance to carve out their future.

How IDs are different

The problem with PwIDs (Persons with Intellectually Disabilities) is quite different and should be treated differently. The IDs (Intellectually Disabled) can see, hear, touch and feel but they process the sensory inputs differently. They perceive the world through a different pair of glasses. After processing the inputs, their reactions and responses are slow and quite different. Their body doesn’t easily keep pace with their minds. Their movements are awkward. To compound the problem, most of them also look different. Their needs are different, their aspirations and priorities are quite different than ours. In the case of IDs, we need to say, “Leave your darling 18- or 20-year-old ward with us, we will look after them for the rest of their life.” It needs a different level of courage, confidence and commitment.

In inclusive schools, even with special educators to support them, the IDs can never catch up with the rest of the children. Many of them come back with an inferiority complex and feeling traumatised. The reason is that, by and large, they are kept away from games, they are unable to understand jokes and they cannot do most of the things that the other children can. To make matters worse, they drool, trip and fall, and are often incontinent and soil their clothes. Some of them have epileptic fits. Inclusive schools, even with the best intentions and facilities, cannot make IDs normal. The IDs feel different because they are different in so many ways.

Often, parents are in denial and push their children to look and act normal, only to make them feel more frustrated time and time again. The children try their best to please their parents and cannot understand why they are never satisfied. They do not pick up social cues so their responses seem bizarre. Even when they try to do the right thing, they trip, fall, spill and break. In social scenarios, the parents are constantly found apologising for their child’s behaviour. The child knows that he or she has done something wrong; it also does not know what is right or just cannot do it right. Just imagine the trauma that ID children go through every day of their life.     

As adolescents, the body has grown, the hormones are flowing and the ID does not know what is happening. Their behaviour becomes all the more incongruent. Now they have to be protected not only from others but from themselves too. People laugh; however sensitised they are, they laugh, scorn, slight, ignore or shy away from our children. Some of them laugh because they believe it lightens the tension that is there when people are interacting with IDs. People do not know how to respond; by and large, they are scared of saying or doing the wrong thing. This is the age when IDs start developing behavioural problems. Everyone around them is trying to correct them—sometimes kindly but often rudely. The IDs feel the scorn and indignity at the cellular level. They try and try their best but just don’t seem to get it right. Finally, they resort to their defence mechanism; they shout, scream, yell, throw things or become violent. They have learnt that these tantrums make people around them shut up and stop picking on them. But this behaviour makes them stand out like a sore thumb; it scares other people even further away from them.

As adults, the IDs have other problems. Even special schools do not want them. Some day-workshops do allow them but they are few and far apart. One parent, generally the mother, has to take them to school or at least to the bus stop and be there when they come back. The situation is no different when they are offered a job. Parents with female IDs never risk sending their daughters to work for obvious reasons. The main problem is that most IDs do not understand money. They wonder why Papa has to go to work every day. “He gets something called money if he goes to work; then we can enjoy a picnic, a holiday or go to a restaurant.” That’s all that money means to them.

As age advances, the situation becomes more complicated. IDs cannot live by themselves. They cannot run a house, pay bills, manage staff and look after their own health and hygiene even if the parents have a lot of money. By now, they have been isolated from society. The parents are ageing. By the age of 35–40, they lose one or both parents. Affluent parents do leave behind enough money for their darling child to be looked after; often, the guardian takes control of the money giving the child the bare minimum. Most other families just leave it to God. Many parents pray that their darling child dies before them. Society has no idea of what happens to adult and ageing IDs. They just fade into oblivion.

True rehabilitation

The IDs have suffered enough. It is our responsibility as a society to create a system that can be justified as true rehabilitation for IDs. Before that, we have to learn to see the world through the eyes of an ID. We have to understand their likes, dislikes, choices and priorities.

Rehabilitation and Inclusivity, a series of blogs, is an attempt to get us closer to understanding IDs. It will become easier if we put aside our biases,  pre-conceived notions and quick fixes.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate– Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve. Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement. Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work. #BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Parenting a Child with Intellectual Disability

The Initial Struggles

• Being a parent of a disabled child, particularly one with an intellectual disability, presents immense challenges.
• The most difficult hurdle is the inability and unwillingness to accept reality, often leading to depression.
• Daily life brings numerous practical difficulties, further amplifying emotional struggles.

Transforming Challenges into a Mission

• Dr. Chandrashekhar Desai and his wife, the late Dr. Neelima Desai, turned their personal adversity into a movement.
• As parents of Aditi, a child with an intellectual disability, they chose action over despair.
• Their journey exemplifies how love, perseverance, understanding, and acceptance can bring about transformative change.

Founding Navkshitij: A Beacon of Hope for Mentally Challenged Adults

The Vision Behind Navkshitij

• Navkshitij is a residential rehabilitation home that offers lifetime care, love, and acceptance to mentally challenged adults and persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs).
• The organization strives to provide dignity and happiness through its innovative programs and facilities.

Expanding the Reach of Navkshitij

• In 2022, Dr. Desai assumed leadership as the president of Navkshitij, spearheading several advancements:
  • Construction of a new rehabilitation centre at Asawali, accommodating 150 PwIDs.
  • Establishment of a state-of-the-art training centre for Navkshitij’s flagship courses.
  • Initiation of a research programme to evaluate the impact of residential rehabilitation.
  • Exploration of job placement opportunities for PwIDs, creating sustainable solutions.

Dr. Desai’s Multifaceted Contributions

Achievements in Medicine and Beyond

• A distinguished ENT surgeon and respected acupressure therapist with over four decades of medical practice.
• Known for his empathetic approach, building genuine connections with his patients beyond treatment.

Innovating with the Human Positioning System (HPS)

• Dr. Desai has studied Advaita Vedanta for over thirty years.
• Combining modern medicine and Ayurvedic principles, he developed HPS—a guiding system for healthy and happy living.
• HPS has been presented at national and international conferences, gaining recognition for its innovative approach.

A Life of Adventure and Balance

• An avid sports and adventure enthusiast:
  • Cycled through five European countries with his elder daughter at the age of 13.
  • Regularly plays tennis, embodying a balanced and active lifestyle even at 69 years old.

Recognitions and Awards

Honouring a Lifetime of Contributions

• In 2024, Dr. Desai was honoured with the Vocational Social Appreciation Award 2024–25 by the Rotary Club of Akurdi.
• This award recognizes his exceptional contributions to:
  • The rehabilitation of mentally challenged adults and PwIDs.
  • The field of medicine.
  • Humanity at large.

Conclusion

• Dr. Chandrashekhar Desai’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication.
• His work at Navkshitij continues to inspire countless families and individuals, offering hope and dignity to mentally challenged adults and persons with intellectual disabilities.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate– Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve. Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement. Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work. #BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Diwali 2024 Festivities at Navkshitij

This year, Diwali was celebrated with a variety of events designed to engage, inspire, and uplift our mentally challenged adults, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Here’s a look at our vibrant week of festivities:

• October 26 – Diwali Party Sponsored by the Sarthi Group
  • Our Diwali party marked the beginning of the celebrations. Sponsored by the Sarthi Group, the event brought together special friends from both Marunji and Talegaon centers for an unforgettable evening of dance, music, and food.
  • The Talegaon center performed a spirited dance themed on Shivaji Maharaj, reflecting a strong cultural pride and enthusiasm. The Marunji center presented a lively lokgeet dance, showcasing traditional music and movements.
  • Our President, Dr. Desai, addressed the audience, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Sarthi Group for their support. The Sarthi Group not only provided essential items for our friends but also participated in group dances, creating a strong bond and joyous spirit in the celebrations.

• October 27 – Creative Fort Model-Making Activity
  • In keeping with the spirit of innovation and creativity, our special friends participated in a fort model-making activity using soil, jute bags, and recycled materials. The activity encouraged them to use their imagination, and the models were a true showcase of their skill and creativity.

• October 28 – Parents’ Meeting and Family Connections
  • To bring families closer during this festive time, we organized a parents’ meeting at both centers. Parents gathered to share experiences, connect with staff, and celebrate the sense of community at Navkshitij. Some special friends also left to celebrate Diwali with their families, ensuring they, too, could experience the warmth of home.

• October 29 – Dhanatrayodashi Celebration
  • As part of the Diwali traditions, our friends and staff celebrated Dhanatrayodashi together. This gathering allowed our friends to experience the joy of community, sharing the festival’s blessings with one another in a family-like setting.

Memorable Outings for Our Mentally Challenged Adults

October 30 – Fun Outings and Activities

• Marunji Center’s Day of Excitement: Our friends from Marunji were treated to a day filled with thrilling activities. Starting early, they enjoyed a movie experience featuring a missile planet adventure, a toy train ride, mechanical mirrors, rain dancing, and more. These activities brought immense joy and created cherished memories for our friends.

• Talegaon Center’s Visit to Bhimashankar: The Talegaon unit enjoyed a memorable day at Bhimashankar. They visited the Bhimashankar temple in the morning, followed by a lovely lunch and an afternoon of fun activities, including boating, playing games on swings, cricket, tennis, and dancing. These outings are not only a source of joy but also an opportunity for our mentally challenged adults to interact with new surroundings, enhancing their social and emotional experiences.

The commitment of our staff members shines through in these moments. Many of them could have chosen to celebrate Diwali with their families, but they dedicated their time to ensuring our special friends had a beautiful and fulfilling experience. Their empathy and dedication have made a lasting impact, demonstrating the strong bonds formed within our Navkshitij community.

November 1 – Lakshmi Puja and Diwali Lights at Life Republic Campus

• On November 1, our staff and friends held a Lakshmi Puja ceremony at both centers, inviting blessings of prosperity and well-being for the coming year. That same day, our friends from Marunji visited the Life Republic campus, where they admired the vibrant Diwali lights, soaking in the festive atmosphere.

November 3 – Bhai Duj Celebration

• To conclude the Diwali celebrations, we celebrated Bhai Duj on November 3. This heartwarming event allowed everyone to celebrate the bond of brotherhood, fostering love and unity within our Navkshitij family.

At Navkshitij, Diwali is more than just a festival; it is a time of unity, joy, and shared love. For our special friends, particularly the mentally challenged adults who may not have their own families to celebrate with, the Navkshitij community becomes their family. Diwali here is a reminder that with care, love, and support, everyone can experience the warmth of family, bringing light and joy into each other’s lives.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate– Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve. Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement. Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work. #BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Adults with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) or mentally challenged adults require consistent vocational training as an integral part of their rehabilitation process. Vocational training not only equips them with essential skills but also plays a key role in improving their behavior and self-management. However, providing this training comes with its own set of challenges, as identifying and nurturing the skills of mentally challenged adults demands significant dedication and effort. The role of special educators and caregivers is critical, as they guide PwIDs from the initial observation phase to full proficiency in a specific skill.

At Navkshitij, our mission is to empower persons with intellectual disabilities. We have designed Individual rehabilitation plans (IRP) at our two centers, where we operate sheltered workshops to impart vocational skills.

Inception of the Chocolate Unit

In 2008, Navkshitij established the chocolate unit as part of its vocational training program for mentally challenged adults. This idea stemmed from our special friends’ love for chocolates. Frequently, donors and parents brought chocolates to celebrate birthdays, and they were also used as rewards in behavior management strategies. Our late founder, Dr. Neelima Desai, saw an opportunity to transform this love for chocolates into a learning experience and approached Ms. Nitu Mudra, the owner of Tinies Chocolate, for help.

Ms. Mudra kindly agreed to provide training to our staff and also supplied the raw materials needed to start the chocolate-making process. This collaboration helped initiate a journey that would soon become an essential part of our vocational training program for intellectually disabled adults.

Challenges in Training Mentally Challenged Adults

Training mentally challenged adults in the intricate process of chocolate making was no easy task. The preparation of chocolates requires maintaining strict hygiene, precision in measurement, and careful packaging. Additionally, our special friends had to overcome the challenge of controlling their desire to consume chocolates, which could be harmful if not managed properly.

We embraced this challenge head-on by designing a training program that suited the abilities of our special friends.

Step-by-Step Approach to Vocational Training

• Selecting Participants: The first step was selecting a group of PwIDs to participate in the training. Our special educators carefully observed their abilities and divided the overall chocolate-making process into smaller, manageable tasks. Each task was then assigned based on the individual’s IQ level and skillset.
• Task Specialization: Instead of teaching every step to all participants, each individual was trained to master one or two specific tasks. This specialization ensured a more efficient production process and allowed each person to focus on their strengths.
• Addressing Overeating through Role Play: Before starting the training, we used role-play activities to address the issue of overeating. This helped our special friends understand the potential health risks of consuming too much chocolate and prepared them for their roles in production.

Focus on Hygiene and Safety

Given the importance of hygiene in chocolate manufacturing, we devoted an entire month to training our friends on proper hygiene practices. This training was more rigorous compared to when we produced non-edible items, like candles and akash kandils.

Key areas of hygiene training included:

• Wearing gloves and caps during production
• Proper handwashing techniques
• Safe disposal of waste materials

Production Training and Legal Compliance

After mastering hygiene protocols, our special friends moved on to learning the technical aspects of chocolate making, including:

• Measuring ingredients with precision
• Proper packaging techniques

Each individual was assigned tasks based on their capability and interest, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.

Before launching the unit, we needed to secure the necessary legal permissions. Our dedicated team worked diligently to obtain the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) certification, which allowed us to legally operate our chocolate manufacturing unit.

Success and Sweet Rewards

Today, our special friends are fully trained in the art of chocolate making. They take pride in fulfilling numerous orders, especially during the Diwali season, without any difficulties. The chocolate unit has not only enhanced their vocational skills but has also added a sense of purpose and achievement to their lives.

Since its inception in 2008, the chocolate unit has brought an extra layer of sweetness to the lives of our mentally challenged adults, empowering them with valuable skills and increasing their self-confidence.

The journey of the chocolate unit at Navkshitij is a testament to the power of vocational training in transforming the lives of mentally challenged adults. Through patience, dedication, and structured guidance, these individuals have gained meaningful skills that contribute to their rehabilitation and overall well-being. The chocolate unit is not just a business—it’s a symbol of empowerment, growth, and the sweetness of progress for our special friends.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate- Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve.Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement.Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work.#BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Gandhi Jayanti, observed every year on October 2nd, is a day to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and reflect on his values of peace, cleanliness, and social justice. At Navkshitij, we have traditionally celebrated this day with street plays and efforts to raise awareness about important social issues, such as the education of girls, child marriage, and the rights of disabled persons.

This year, however, we took a different approach by organizing two meaningful activities at our Talegaon and Marunji units, focusing on community engagement and social responsibility for mentally challenged adults and individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Navkshitij Talegaon: A Cleanliness Drive with Rotary Club

At our Talegaon unit, the celebration was held in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Talegaon as part of the Nirmal Bharat Swachhata Abhiyan, a nationwide campaign promoting cleanliness. Here are the key highlights:

• 25 special friends with intellectual disabilities from Navkshitij, along with staff members, gathered at Talegaon railway station early in the morning.
• Joined by 20 Rotary Club members, they cleaned approximately three kilometers of road near the station.
• Armed with garbage bags, the group collected litter, transforming the station road into a cleaner and more welcoming space.
• After the cleaning campaign, everyone shared snacks together.
• Mr. Milind Shelar, president of the Rotary Club, praised the dedication and hard work of both the Navkshitij staff and our special friends.

This cleanliness drive not only supported the Swachh Bharat initiative but also provided an opportunity for adults with intellectual disabilities to engage in community service, reinforcing their sense of contribution and belonging.

Navkshitij Marunji: A Rally for Awareness

At the Marunji unit, Gandhi Jayanti was celebrated with a rally aimed at spreading social awareness. Key points from this event include:

• Preparations began a day earlier, with special friends creating campaign boards, while the administrative team worked on completing the necessary legal formalities.
• On October 2nd, special friend Prashant, who has an intellectual disability, was dressed as Mahatma Gandhi, and he truly resembled the Father of the Nation.
• The rally started at 10 AM, covering approximately four kilometers in and around Marunji.
• During a 15-minute break at the Kalbhairavnath Mandir, our special friends enjoyed cold drinks and chocolates.
• Even after walking for one and a half hours, the energy of our special friends remained high, and they passionately shouted slogans throughout the rally.

This rally not only helped spread the message of cleanliness and social responsibility but also empowered our special friends, providing them with an opportunity to develop their social skills and engage confidently with the public.

Key Takeaways

• Community Engagement: Both the cleanliness drive and rally aimed to involve mentally challenged adults and individuals with intellectual disabilities in meaningful activities that help them participate actively in society.
• Social Awareness: Through these events, we raised awareness about the importance of cleanliness and social responsibility.
• Confidence Building: Participating in public events like these helps boost the confidence and self-esteem of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Skill Development: These activities also enhance social and communication skills, promoting inclusion and interaction with the broader community.
• Gandhi’s Legacy: By embracing Gandhi’s ideals of community service, we continue to promote a cleaner and more inclusive society for everyone.

This year’s Gandhi Jayanti at Navkshitij was a testament to the power of inclusion, teamwork, and collective action. From cleaning streets to marching in rallies, our special friends and staff demonstrated that even small actions can make a significant difference.

These activities are especially important for mentally challenged adults and those with intellectual disabilities, providing them with a platform to engage, contribute, and grow within the community.

Together, we continue to move closer to a world that is cleaner, more inclusive, and more supportive of individuals with diverse abilities.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate- Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve.Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement.Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work.#BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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Introduction

Intellectual disability affects many families globally, with approximately 1 in 50 families having at least one child with such a condition. These families face numerous challenges, especially as the child grows older. Behavioral issues become more pronounced, particularly after the age of 18, when mental development lags behind physical growth.

Ajinkya Goundaje, at 33 years old, embodies such challenges. His journey from a boy with significant behavioral issues to a confident individual contributing to his community is a story of patience, care, and targeted rehabilitation.

Background

• Name: Ajinkya Goundaje
• Age: 33
• Condition: Intellectual disability with behavioral challenges
• Admitted to Navkshitij: 2023

Initial Challenges

Ajinkya’s parents were anxious when they brought him to Navkshitij in 2023. He struggled with several issues that hindered his independence, including:

• Lack of training in activities of daily living (ADL), specifically in toilet training
• Digestive problems that impacted his overall health
• Over-dependence on his mobile phone, which led to aggression when removed
• Balance difficulties, affecting his physical coordination

His name, meaning “the one who can never be defeated,” seemed ironic at first due to the behavioral hurdles he faced.

Rehabilitation Plan

Upon his arrival, the Navkshitij team initiated a one-month observation period to assess Ajinkya’s strengths and weaknesses. This allowed the team to design a customized intervention plan targeting his core challenges:

• Toilet Training and Dietary Adjustments: Ajinkya’s digestive issues were closely linked to his toileting challenges. After observing which foods were easily digestible for him, the team created a specific diet plan. Within two months, 90% of his digestive and toileting issues were resolved.

• Behavioral Management and Reducing Mobile Dependency: The team worked on reducing his reliance on his mobile phone by involving him in engaging activities. Gradually, this dependence decreased, and his aggression diminished.

• Physical and Motor Skills Development: Ajinkya had balance issues, so the team incorporated his love for dancing into his daily routine. He participated in one-hour dance sessions and trampoline exercises, which helped improve his physical coordination.

• Engagement in Meaningful Activities: Ajinkya developed an interest in gardening, and the caregivers encouraged him to spend more time working in the garden. This engagement gave him a sense of purpose and helped him form social bonds with his peers.

Results and Progress

• After three to four months of consistent therapy, Ajinkya’s transformation was evident. He was no longer dependent on his mobile phone and had become more independent in his activities of daily living. He enjoyed spending his free time working in the garden and socializing with his friends.
• Ajinkya’s involvement in agricultural activities expanded when he became part of a nursery project at the Talegav units. His efficiency in filling soil bags surpassed his peers, and his skills earned him the position of nursery supervisor. He embraced this leadership role with pride and dedication.

Parental Observation

When Ajinkya’s parents visited him after a few months, they were pleasantly surprised by the changes in their son. He proudly showed them the tasks he was responsible for, demonstrating his work ethic and commitment. The progress they witnessed was beyond their expectations.

Conclusion:

Ajinkya’s journey from dependency and behavioral challenges to a confident, independent individual highlights the importance of personalized rehabilitation programs. His case shows that with targeted intervention, even severe behavioral and intellectual challenges can be managed effectively. Ajinkya’s transformation serves as an inspiring example for families and caregivers, proving that intellectual disabilities can be managed with the right care, patience, and support.

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Strategically introducing Vansh Nehara’s story against the backdrop of statistics sheds light on the challenges individuals with disabilities face in finding employment opportunities. Despite efforts to bridge the gap, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities remains significantly higher than those without disabilities. In 2023, the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities stood at 7.2 percent, twice that of those without disabilities. This stagnation in employment figures underscores the importance of initiatives like Navkshitij, which not only provide residential care but also empower individuals with disabilities through tailored training and employment opportunities. Vansh Nehara’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of such initiatives, offering hope and inspiration for greater inclusivity and support in our society. This is the story of our special friend, Vansh Nehara.

Background

• Name: Vansh Nehara
• Age: 30
• Condition: Moderate intellectual disability with an IQ of 50%
• Background: Originally from Delhi, communicated in Hindi
• Current Residence: Navkshitij (admitted in 2021)
• Language Barrier: Faced challenges communicating in Pune where Marathi is predominantly spoken

Initial Challenges

• Behavior: Shy, non-engaging with staff, and non-participatory in activities
• Intervention: Initiated a language development campaign with Hindi-focused activities twice a week
• Activities Included: Bollywood-style speaking and mimicry
• Outcome: Helped Vansh adjust to life at the Marunji unit

Individual Rehabilitation Plan (IRP)

Objective: Tailored to Vansh’s abilities, divided into in-house and community training

1. In-house Training:

•    Basic life skills: Understanding money and time
•    Road safety
•    Basic personality development

2. Community Training:

    Activities: Purchasing vegetables and groceries

3. Community Engagement: Enhancing communication skills with strangers, shopkeepers,   and auto drivers

Discovery and Development of Talent

• Talent Identified: Interest in photo editing.
• Encouragement: Assisted daily with photo editing at the reception’s computer.
• Leadership Role: Engaged as an assistant caretaker in the Talegaon unit.

Preparation for External Employment

• Skill Development: Learned basic job skills through YouTube and other online platforms.
• Partnership: Enrolled in job training through a partnership with RPG Company.
• Salary: Earns 14,000 INR
• Support: Two dedicated staff members assist Vansh and three other special friends at their new workplace.
• Milestone: First experience in employing an adult with moderate intellectual disability.

Conclusion

Vansh Nehara’s journey at Navkshitij showcases the potential within individuals with disabilities when given the right support and opportunities. His progress from a shy resident to a confident employee exemplifies the transformative power of tailored rehabilitation programs and inclusive employment initiatives. Vansh’s story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the critical need for societal support in fostering independence and employment for individuals with disabilities.

Highlights

• 7.2% Unemployment Rate for Individuals with Disabilities in 2023.
• Navkshitij’s Impact: Tailored training and employment opportunities.
• Vansh’s Transformation: From shy and non-engaging to a confident assistant caretaker and photo editor.
• External Employment: Vansh’s successful integration into a job earning 14,000 INR.

Key Takeaways

• Supportive Employment Partnerships: Vital for providing real-world job opportunities and fostering independence.
• Personalized Rehabilitation Plans: Essential for empowering individuals with disabilities.
• Community and In-house Training: Crucial for skill development and social integration.
• Encouragement of Talents: Fosters confidence and leadership qualities.

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What is Creativity?

Creativity is the ability to generate new ideas, innovate, and express thoughts in unique ways. It is deeply tied to imagination and originality. Artists, scientists, and thinkers are often seen as creative minds who develop innovative solutions to problems.

At Navkshitij, we are dedicated to nurturing the emotions and creativity of persons with intellectual disabilities. These individuals also possess creative potential; we simply need to identify their abilities and promote them in the right way.

We specialize in uncovering the hidden gems, much like extracting diamonds from a coal mine. Our focus goes beyond nurturing creativity; we also strive to refine and develop it through various activities and events.

A Recent Trekking Adventure

In month of June, we organized a trekking trip to Naneghat, a beautiful and historical location. Our special friends were especially surprised from the unique reverse waterfall at Naneghat. With the help of our special educators and team members, they learned about this natural wonder, creating lasting memories of its beauty.

As we reminisced about our visit, we began preparing for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. We involved our special friends in every aspect of planning because active participation has shown remarkable results.

Planning for Ganesh Chaturthi

During our discussions about eco-friendly Ganesh decorations, Prakhar suggested, “Can we create a scene of the Naneghat waterfall?” While some friends thought this idea was not realistic because of the challenges of recreating a waterfall, we engaged in lively discussions to explore all perspectives.

After much discussions, we decided to create an eco-friendly decoration themed around the Naneghat waterfall. The next day, we began our preparations, even though we weren’t sure how to execute our ideas.

We searched videos on YouTube and collaborated with our special friends to develop a structured plan. We collected waste materials like jute bags, old newspapers, and bamboo, determined not to use any plastic or thermocol in our decorations.

Overcoming Challenges

Initially, we faced challenges while constructing our structure. The bamboo sticks we used were too small and not strong to support the jute bags properly. To solve this, we cut the jute bags and utilized strong bamboo sticks. While we managed to build a stable structure, we encountered another issue: the soil and plaster of Paris we used for shaping did not dry quickly enough. To address this, we used a hot gun to speed up the drying process, and after several efforts, the structure finally dried correctly.

Next, we needed to address the issue of how to create the water source for our waterfall. Since a waterfall without water wouldn’t look realistic, we decided to install a small tub at the base of the waterfall structure and used a cooler motor for water circulation. After colouring the entire structure, we were thrilled with our progress.

The Celebration Day

By September 6th, we completed the waterfall structure, and the results were fantastic. The waterfall functioned beautifully, reflecting the essence of the Naneghat waterfall. Although our creation wasn’t an exact as naneghat, our special friends had put in 100% efforts and creativity.

On September 7th, all the special friends and staff gathered for the puja and installation of the Ganesh idol. Everyone enjoyed the aarti and prasad with renewed energy, knowing that this year we had brought our ideas and creativity to life.

At Navkshitij, we believe that creativity is a powerful tool for everyone, including persons with intellectual disabilities. By nurturing their talents and involving them in meaningful activities, we can help them shine brightly, just like the diamonds we seek to uncover.

Be A Part Of Our Spread Happiness Movement Bringing Happiness: Lighting Up The Lives Of Special Friends Donate- Your contribution directly supports our programs and services, ensuring that persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs) receive the care and support they deserve.Register- Join our community as a volunteer or supporter to stay updated on our initiatives and opportunities for involvement.Spread The Word- Share our mission with others to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of PwIDs, amplifying the impact of our work.#BringingHappiness #LifeatNavkshitij #LightingThePath

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