Wheels of Freedom: Caritas Transforms Lives through Chetana Campaign

For Govinda, a 21-year-old student living in a small slum near Delhi’s Mansarovar Park, the world just got a lot larger. On 10th March 2026, Govinda was one of many beneficiaries who received a state-of-the-art motorised wheelchair during a special distribution programme organised by Caritas India under its Chetana-Disability Campaign. Supported by the CSR initiative of South Indian Bank and technical partner NeoMotion, the event at the CBCI headquarters was more than just a distribution—it was a celebration of dignity and the breaking of physical barriers.

The highlight of the day was the formal distribution ceremony. Amidst a gathering of distinguished guests, the motorised wheelchairs were personally presented to the beneficiaries by Cardinal Anthony Poola, President of the CBCI, Archbishop Dr. Linus Neli, the newly elected Chairman of Caritas India, Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura, former Chairman of Caritas India, Fr. Jesudass R., Executive Director of Caritas India, Fr. Benny Edayath, Assistant Executive Director, Fr. Julian Fernando, Administrator, Caritas India, Mr. Bejo J. Kurian, Deputy General Manager and Regional Head of South Indian Bank.

The heart of the event was captured in the emotional testimony of Govinda. Living alone in Delhi while his family remains in his home village, the Class 9 student works at a vegetable shop in the evenings to fund his education and support his parents. “Receiving this motorised wheelchair means so much to me because it will help me move around more easily and live with greater independence,” Govinda shared. “It gives me new strength and confidence to continue my education and face life with hope.”

The programme opened with a warm welcome from Ms. Alisha Joseph, while Fr. Julian set the tone by emphasizing that assistive devices are “enablers” that significantly improve the quality of life. Representing the corporate partnership, Mr. Bejo J. Kurian spoke passionately about the bank’s dedication to social responsibility. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting meaningful social causes, stating that South Indian Bank is dedicated to partnering with organisations like Caritas India to create a lasting, positive impact in the lives of marginalized communities. The human impact of this partnership was captured perfectly in the testimony of Govinda. A Class 9 student living in a Delhi slum, Govinda works at a vegetable shop in the evenings to fund his studies and support his family back in his village.

“Receiving this motorised wheelchair means so much to me because it will help me move around more easily and live with greater independence,” Govinda shared. “It gives me new strength and confidence to continue my education and face life with hope.”

The collaboration with NeoMotion Wheelchairs ensured that the support went beyond the hardware. The team conducted detailed assessments and provided training to ensure each beneficiary could navigate their new “wheels” safely. With representatives from Zomato also in attendance, the event highlighted the potential for these devices to open doors to sustainable livelihoods and employment.

As the dignitaries and beneficiaries gathered for a group photograph, the message was clear: when institutional leadership and corporate heart meet, the path to an inclusive India becomes much smoother.