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From Access to Empowerment: Claiming the Right to Independence

Bhagchand Rawat, a 21-year-old from Tonk district in Rajasthan, grew up in a farming family where life followed a simple rhythm of hard work and shared responsibility. He lives with his parents and elder brother—his mother manages the household, his father works as a farmer, and his brother earns as a contractor.

Bhagchand lost his vision at a very young age due to glaucoma and congenital cataract. His parents, unsure of what the future held, relied on timely guidance that came unexpectedly. A teacher from his village informed his father about a training camp for persons with visual impairment. That information proved life-changing. At the camp, Bhagchand learned Braille, mobility, and daily living skills—tools that helped him begin building independence early on.

At the age of eight, he was admitted to a Government Senior Secondary School for the Blind in Ajmer, where he completed his education up to Class 12. Today, he is pursuing a two-year BSTC course and hopes to go on to complete a B.Ed, with the long-term goal of becoming a teacher in special education and supporting other children with disabilities.

In 2021, Bhagchand came to know about Eyeway through Hamari Vaani and contacted the helpline while seeking information on Railway Group D vacancies. Through these interactions, he learned that Eyeway also works to ensure that persons with visual impairment are aware of their rights.

This became especially important in 2025, when Bhagchand faced resistance from his bank while applying for an ATM card. The bank manager refused, citing his blindness. Confused and discouraged, Bhagchand reached out to Eyeway. He was informed that access to ATM services is a legal right and was guided about RBI guidelines that mandate equal banking facilities for persons with disabilities.

Armed with this information, Bhagchand returned to the bank, explained the guidelines, and submitted the required documents. In January 2026, his ATM card was issued.

Today, Bhagchand withdraws money independently and feels more confident navigating daily life. He credits Eyeway for helping him understand his rights and take control of his independence—one step at a time.

Team Eyeway

 

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