Disha Sharma, a resilient 25-year-old woman from Ajmer district, Rajasthan, emerged triumphant in her journey towards enhanced social inclusion and a better quality of life through the transformative efforts of the Caritas India Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) program.

Identified as a person with a moderate intellectual disability, Disha’s life took a positive turn five years ago when the CBR team recognized her needs. Coming from a family of five, with her parents, three sisters, and a brother, Disha faced numerous challenges in her pursuit of education and social integration.

Having attended a local school alongside her siblings, Disha experienced the advantages of inclusion. However, due to limited intellectual capacities and the absence of inclusive teaching methods, she dropped out at the age of 12, having reached the 5th standard. The CBR team intervened, recognizing her potential and the importance of adapting educational strategies to her unique needs.

Initially, Disha faced isolation within her own home, often locked inside when her family went out. The CBR team addressed this by supporting her personal grooming, daily living activities, and encouraging social interactions. The program team facilitated in getting her disability certificate UDID and pension to ensure her due entitlement. Recognizing the importance of independence, Disha was assisted in obtaining a job under the MGNREGA scheme, boosting her confidence and self-esteem.

Disha’s journey towards integration didn’t stop there. She actively participated in household chores, worked in the family fields, and contributed positively to various activities. Observing these positive changes, her family realized the need to embrace Disha’s freedom, dispelling the need to lock her in a room.
As a vulnerable young woman, protection from potential abuse and exploitation became a priority. The CBR team planned sensitization sessions on Sexual Reproductive Health Rights for Disha and her family, with the neighbourhood mothers’ support group providing additional protection when family members were absent.

Over 4-5 years, the CBR team’s dedicated efforts paved the way for Disha’s enhanced socialization. Today, she is a joyous individual fully integrated into her community, engaged in productive activities within her family.

Disha’s success story stands as a testament to the effectiveness of the CBR program in fostering transformational change and building resilience within communities. The comprehensive approach, addressing individual needs and fostering community preparedness, ensures a positive impact for Disha and others facing similar challenges.

The broader work of CI CBR is commendable, reaching out to 8397 persons with intellectual disabilities through its program, facilitating health, education, livelihood, and empowerment needs. Intellectual disability, a common developmental challenge, requires a tailored approach, recognizing strengths and needs. CI CBR’s interventions span early intervention, special education, self-care skill training, communication support, and social security, aligning with legal frameworks like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 and the National Trust Act 1999.

Disha’s journey underscores the significance of community-based approaches, collaborative efforts, and customized support in ensuring the well-being and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities.