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From Setback to Comeback: Rising Through Adversity

Monu Gupta, a resident of Uttam Nagar, Delhi, comes from a humble middle-class background. Born in 1991 in Rewari, Haryana, he moved to Delhi in 1995 with his family after his father was transferred there.

Monu’s father initially established a thriving business in Delhi. However, as financial pressures increased and his father's health declined due to diabetes, Monu had to make a difficult choice—he left school after 8th grade to take responsibility for the family business.

In 2017, Monu’s life took another turn when he was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a degenerative eye condition that gradually leads to blindness. Around the same time, he got married to a woman who is partially blind.

By 2020, Monu had completely lost his remaining vision. His father's business had also declined drastically. With his father's kidney condition worsening, the family’s financial situation became dire, relying only on the meager earnings from the struggling business.
 

In a moment of need, Monu sought help through an advertisement on FM and reached out to Eyeway for guidance, specifically for Railway Concession and bus pass assistance. The Eyeway team counseled him and recommended that he consider enrolling in the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) to continue his education. Their advice was clear: education would unlock new opportunities, develop essential skills, and lead toward financial independence.

At first, Monu didn’t act on this advice. His family’s partial support and some income from the business gave him a false sense of stability. But by 2025, the situation had worsened. His father’s health was in critical condition, and the business was nearly shut. This time, Monu was ready to embrace change.

Encouraged by a Counsellor, Monu decided to complete his 10th grade education, knowing it was the minimum qualification needed for government jobs like MTS, SSC, MTSA, and Railway Group D, as well as for basic computer and vocational training programs. Taking a crucial step forward, he enrolled in NIOS.

To support his studies, Monu connected with the National Association for the Blind (NAB) in RK Puram. There, he gained access to the ShraVan Audio Talking Library, received his NIOS syllabus in audio format, and began studying with determination. His exams are scheduled for October.

Understanding the value of digital independence, Monu was also guided to learn how to use his smartphone independently. For this, he enrolled in training at the Netra Foundation. If he can access a laptop, plans are in place to enroll him in computer training as well.

His path is now focused on a clear goal: build skills, gain confidence, and become self-reliant. Eventually, Monu will be connected with companies and opportunities within the visually impaired community, ensuring his dedication leads to sustainable change and independence.

Team Eyeway

 

 

 

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