In a world where Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) often grapple with unmet needs and are marginalized from decision-making processes within their families and communities, Caritas India has embarked on a radical initiative. This endeavor aims to shift the narrative, viewing PwDs as valuable contributors rather than passive recipients. At the heart of this transformation lies the Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) program, which is driving empowerment and fostering the independence of PwDs and their affiliated organizations, known as Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).

In this initiative, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) of PwDs are established at the village level, involving all PwDs within the community. These SHGs, often comprising around ten members, prioritize the inclusion of both men and women, ensuring that children are active participants as well. The primary goal of these SHGs is to create a support network that addresses the basic needs of PwDs, encompassing health, education, livelihood, social, and empowerment aspects. Crucially, the aim is to integrate PwDs into the community without discrimination, acknowledging and realizing their full potential.

The SHGs establish their own by-laws, encompassing various operational aspects such as meeting frequency, savings, loan sanction procedures, bookkeeping, and penalties for addressing issues among members. Typically, these groups convene weekly, fortnightly, or monthly at predetermined times. Members are encouraged to make monthly savings, with no fixed minimum or maximum amount. These savings are then circulated among members to support economic activities, with interest rates and repayment timelines determined collectively.

Caritas India’s CBR program has been actively working with approximately 3,300 SHGs at the village level across 47 program locations spanning 16 states and one Union Territory. This network comprises approximately 44,200 members, underscoring the program’s widespread impact.

These village-level SHGs are federated as block-level OPDs, and when multiple block-level OPDs exist, they are further consolidated into district-level OPDs. Caritas India’s CBR program currently collaborates with 86 block-level OPDs and 20 district-level OPDs, including one state-level OPD.

OPDs take on a structured approach, formulating their vision, mission, and objectives. Some OPDs are formally registered under the Societies Registration Act as independent entities at the district level. These OPDs function through a three-level structure comprising the General Body, the Governing Body, and the Executive Committees. This structure emphasizes gender balance and cross-disability representation.

The General Body convenes annually or biannually, the Governing Body meets quarterly, and the Executive Committees gather monthly. These meetings follow predetermined agendas, with decisions meticulously documented in the form of meeting minutes. Registers are meticulously maintained, containing copies of the constitution, member lists, and meeting records.

The overarching objectives of OPDs are wide-ranging, focusing on:

1. Safeguarding the human rights of PwDs throughout their life cycle.
2. Building the capacity of PwDs to navigate laws, schemes, and policies for their benefit.
3. Enabling active participation of PwDs in family and community decision-making.
4. Promoting equal partnership between PwDs and other community members.
5. Advancing equality in decision-making forums and various spheres of life.
6. Advocating policy changes and services favoring PwDs.
7. Implementing financial stability initiatives for OPD members.
8. Facilitating rehabilitation services for PwDs with severe disabilities.

Moreover, OPDs champion critical issues, including the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, access to quality education for children with disabilities, accessibility in public spaces, diverse job opportunities, inclusion in development committees, and participation in decision-making processes. OPD members actively engage with government offices, presenting memoranda and following up on critical issues. Interface meetings are organized to bridge the gap between various stakeholders, amplifying the voices of PwDs.

As Caritas India’s CBR program continues to flourish, it envisions that several OPDs will evolve into independent organizations, taking charge of their agendas with minimal or no external support. This transformative journey represents a significant stride toward empowering PwDs, shifting perceptions, and fostering inclusivity within society. Caritas India’s commitment to empowering PwDs stands as a testament to its unwavering dedication to the cause of inclusivity and empowerment.