Vikas Kumar

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“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." Mahatma Gandhi once said. These words resonate deeply when we think about the incredible resilience and determination shown by individuals overcoming challenges on a daily basis. 

Scott Hamilton, the figure skating champion, aptly noted, “The only disability in life is a bad attitude.” 

“Human beings have 5 senses- Sight, Smell, Hear, Touch, Taste and taste. If one sense is reduced or absent, then the other senses get stronger to take its place and balance the anomaly." Various studies and individual experiences affirm this statement. 

Let me ask you a question: Which Indian cricket captain who is a wicketkeeper batsman holds two T20 World Cup titles? If you thought of MS Dhoni, you’re mistaken. 

My personal experience on more occasions than one has been fascinating. I have seen visually impaired individuals navigating train stations, walking confidently and independently, always adhering to their intended path.

Many companies conduct special drives and campaigns to hire differently abled people and tailor roles within their organisations to accommodate people with disabilities (PWD). But it is definitely time for the private sector to start incorporating PWDs into mainstream roles within their commercial, technical, manufacturing, finance, HR, and R&D functions. Rest assured, you will never get a professional with a better attitude and full of gratitude if you do hire one. 

A couple of years ago, we launched a campaign to interview and shortlist a few PWDs and promoted them to our clients. The response was not encouraging. Last year, we persevered, successfully securing a position for an individual who had overcome significant challenges following an accident.

As a conscientious executive search firm, we are eager to tackle this challenge head-on once more. Here’s our proposal – If your company is willing to hire a PWD for a responsible position and engages us to find the right fit, we pledge to not charge our customary fee. In addition to that, an amount equivalent to our fee will be donated to an NGO chosen by your company. 

One last thing: The Indian Cricket Captain who led the Blind T20 World Cup victories in 2012 and 2014, with an impressive record of 32 centuries and 15 half-centuries, is Shekhar Naik. His achievements stand as a testament to sheer determination, hard work, focus, and willpower. 

Remember, your “likes” may not, but your “support” can truly make a difference in the life of a person with a disability.