Learning centre opens new doors for two children and their village to see disability differently

The small village of jagharpur, in Chhattisgarh stayed mostly quiet, but one house at the far end felt even quieter than the rest. Two children lived there, Rita and Akansh* (names changed as per the JJ Act), who rarely stepped outside because of their disabilities. Their world began to change only when learning entered their home, bringing hope not just for them but for the entire village.

Five-year-old Akansh was born with multiple disabilities and can see only faint colours and light. Seven-year-old Rita, who is visually impaired, depends on her family for movement. Their challenges never stopped their interest in learning, even when their opportunities were limited.

Their parents struggled through their own hardships. Ramesh, once a daily wage labourer, became paralyzed after a severe illness three years ago. Since then, Sushila has taken full responsibility for the family. She walks long distances for work, cares for her husband, and still finds the strength to tend to her children.

“I used to break down at night,” she says quietly. “I didn’t know how to support my children when everything felt uncertain.”

In 2023, Caritas India’s Khushaal Bachpan team visited Jagharpur and came across the family. The program, supported by Caritas Australia, works across five districts in Chhattisgarh to ensure that children from vulnerable backgrounds, including children with disabilities, receive support and opportunities to learn in a safe environment. Seeing the potential in both children, the team included them in the Learning Support Initiative.

The initial days were slow and delicate. “Akansh hardly spoke, and Rita would only smile gently,” recalls community mobilizer Sister Jessy Chiranckal. The team began visiting twice a week with tactile learning materials, colourful storybooks, and music based activities designed to match the children’s needs.

Gradually, a clear change appeared. “Akansh could not recognise letters earlier,” Sister Jessy says. “Now he reads short sentences and writes his name proudly.” Rita found confidence through music and rhythm, expressing herself with a freedom she never had before.

The impact spread to the neighbourhood. Children who once hesitated to play with Rita and Akansh now join them in group learning sessions filled with stories, songs, and shared excitement. “They sit together, learn together, and enjoy the activities without any hesitation,” Sister Jessy adds.

To strengthen the family’s access to support, the Khushaal Bachpan team helped both children obtain disability certificates and apply for government benefits. The effort highlighted an important commitment that Caritas India upholds in all its programs and with its partners: safeguarding every child, ensuring dignity, and creating safe learning spaces where children can grow without fear or exclusion.

Rita and Akansh’s story continues to influence jagharpur. Their journey shows that when the right support reaches a family at the right time, hope grows. It proves that every child, regardless of disability, deserves the chance to learn, participate, and be seen.