People of Value

New Delhi

Determination is all it takes to touch the sky

That Bharat was born without a left arm hasn't had any bearing on his outlook to life. In fact, the 16-year-old from Delhi seems to have grown up just as playful as other children his age. So strong is his enthusiasm for sports, particularly athletics, that it has now earned him a passage to the World Athletics Championships for handicapped in Europe next month. Bharath, along with other selected sportspersons, is currently training in Bangalore.

It was sheer destiny when eight months ago, Bharat made a casual visit to Nehru Stadium, the city's athletics hub. The conducive atmosphere impressed Bharat, and without a moment's hesitation. He enrolled himself with the athletics coach Satayapal Singh.

Since then, their association has born fruit. Under the tutelage of Satayapal, Bharat has notched up some enviable performance.

The teenager can now complete a 100 meters dash in jury 12 seconds. He can also run one lap in 57 seconds. These impressive results have earned him a place in the national squad.

If Bharat can run as fast as any other, says Satayapal, it's due to his passion for running. "He generally trains with the normal athletes. And his ability to cope with hard training is the main reason for his success," said Satayapal.

The Dwarka-based teenager is elevated at the prospect of going abroad and doing what he likes best i.e. running hard. "I want to show that I am the best," he said.

Source: Handicapped? No, not really. Indian Express, New Delhi, 1 July 2006.

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Pursuing her Dreams

Impaired by polio and awaiting two surgeries, 21 year-old Rajni had only one dream that kept her going. Her dream was to study at the Shyam Lal College. "It is near my house. I have no big hopes. I just want to study here so that my father does not have to carry me to a bus to distant colleges," said Rajni.

But her wish may remain unfulfilled. Rajni has been denied admission at Shyam Lal College, as the four seats under the disabled quota, in the course of her choice, have already been filled up. Hard luck, you may say, as nearly half of the quota seats available for disabled persons at Delhi University go empty every year.

Battling all odds like two surgeries in 2006 and a hand-to-month existence, her father carries goods to support the family of eight. Rajni had managed to score 54% in her Boards. "My father used to carry me in his arms to the bus. It is very embarrassing when people stare at you. But I wanted to study. I know my marks don't speak enough, but I just want one chance, and will give my best this time," she pleaded.

Rajni was struck by the disease, which has left her with 80% impairment, when she was four. "I don't have high hopes of getting into a big college. Who meri bachpan ki choice hai. That time I did not even know if will be able to study till Class XII." Her journey till Class XII had not been easy either. "I was denied admission in Class V, then again in Class X, but a teacher to mine, Rambir Singh, showed me the way," said Rajni.

Little aware that she had to visit the university directly to apply under the quota, she went to the college instead. "They directed me to the university. But reaching the university was another struggle for me. They (university officials) have asked me to come again on July 7.I hope they admit me."

She may not have too much hope left on that count, but she's not lacking in confidence. "I have fought disability and poverty so far, I want to make my parents proud of me. I want to do something different", she said.

Source: Polio failed to cripple her dreams, college proves a nightmare. The Times of India, New Delhi 2 July 2006.

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