Asha Ka Jharna Quarterly Activity Report (October – December 2015)

Joy of Giving Day (2 nd Oct)

What a fantastic start of 'Joy of Giving' week at Asha Ka Jharna Sikar unit. 15 Youngsters pursuing CA professional course from Sikar spent a day full of joy and entertainment planned for our special kids. Drawing & Painting was organized; few fun games were played; Jokers were hired to bring smile on their faces; dance & music session was on and finally hot snacks Pav Bhaji, Burger and Chow min were served by on the spot cook. Children had a field day.

WORKSHOP ON SENSORY INTEGRATION (8 th to 9 th Oct)

All staff members of ‘Asha Ka Jharna’ are sponsored regularly for various workshops, training modules and knowledge sessions conducted at various parts of the country. We sent our two physiotherapists Mr. Ajaj Ali Bagwan and Mr. Gautam Kumar for two days’ workshop (8-9 October 2015) on ‘Sensory Integration’ to DISHA Foundation, Jaipur. Focus of this workshop was on the basic physiology and arousal regulations as well as management of different sensory processing disorders .The Resource person for this workshop was Mr. Karthik Ranganatha Rao, BPT, BT, MIAP, Certified in Sensory Integration (USA) and Certified in Aquatic Therapy (USA) and having more than 11 years of experience in the field of Pediatric Therapy. He has, to his credit, conducted more than 60 workshops for various target groups in India as well as abroad.

Sensory Integration is the neurological process of organizing the information we get from our body and the world around us for use in daily life. Sensory Integration dysfunction is the inability to process information received through the senses.

In the workshop, that had spanned for two days many theory and practical sessions were conducted. On the first day, essentials of Sensory Integration were taught. The objective of this session was to understand the basic structure and function of the sensory systems. Also a session on various Sensory Processing disorders was held. A practical demonstration with a child was held and later participants also took part in the practical sessions with children with neurological difficulties. Participants evaluated a case followed by discussions and learnings gained on the

case. Various clinical changes today in the field of Sensory Integration were also explained upon. Q & A session saw some practical issues like which treatment, by whom, specific problems in each case and circumstances etc. It cleared doubts in the minds of therapists.

On the second day, various sensory based motor problems (Postural disorders and Disorders in Praxis) were dealt with in detail. Also, various motor problems and how to manage them and characteristics of intervention were taught and practically demonstrated. Various holistic intervention principles were taught to the participants. One session was held to educate participants on the sensory diets. Various input methods like Vestibular, Proprioceptive, Tactile and Oral were dealt in detail. Also, the principles and how to apply this ware also taught.

The workshop gave a comprehensive knowledge to the physiotherapists in the field of sensory integration, various Sensory integration disorders and how to handle children with such disorders. Upon completion the physiotherapists were able to:

Understand the basic structure and function of various sensory systems Explore the relationship between sensory processing and human behavior.

Unusual behaviors may be due to poor regulation from the nervous system Differentiate sensory stimulation and sensory integration Identify various disorders related to sensory dysfunction Conduct basic clinical tests to identify sensory processing disorders Understand the contribution of sensory systems in motor control Design and implement strategies to fulfill the sensory needs of the children

in school Increase efficiency of handling skills by working with the child.

From this workshop, the children of our organization will benefit greatly as all issues regarding the children sensory wellbeing were addressed in the workshop. Major benefits derived to the child from this workshop are:

Assist child in Self Regulation Improved engagement in activities Improved ability to hold still and pay attention Increased tolerance to change Improved ability to generalize Improved social language

Increased fine motor skills Improved praxis Improved organizational skills Improved quality of life for family

Parent Teacher Meeting (19 th October)

Parent Teacher Meet was organized at NWL unit. Our team interacted, counseled, debated and had intense discussions both one on one and group with parents/guardians. Suggestions were given, doubts were cleared and ways to engage more with the kids were explained upon.

Science Park Visit (20 th Oct)

Children from Asha Ka Jharna Nawalgarh special school were taken to recently established Science Park & Planetarium at Nawalgarh. What an Outing! From theme based swings and slides to scientifically principled live models explaining light ,sound ,solar system ,mirror images , gravity ,velocity and many such learnings all in a fun way method , everything was meticulously planned. Children thoroughly enjoyed the trip and educators themselves got new ideas in training.

Continuous Rehabilitation Enrichment (CRE) Program (5 th to 7 th Nov)

As part of upgrading their skills and as a mandatory prerequisite to get rehabilitation professionals RCI (Rehabilitation Council of India) registration renewed , they have to regularly attend CRE program being organized on various topics at different institutes from time to time. Staff members of ‘Asha ka Jharna’ are facilitated and sponsored regularly for the above programs throughout the country. From 5th to 7th November 2015, our senior special educator (Mental Retardation) Mr Sandeep Jangir participated in a 3 day workshop at PRAYAS Institute for Mentally Challenged and Training Center Jaipur on developing an effective Individualized Education Program (IEP). The workshop was conducted jointly by Dr. Pooja Ben and Ms. Sujatha. Dr. Pooja is a senior psychologist from Gujarat. Ms. Sujata (M.Ed. in Special Education) currently working as a lecturer in

the curriculum planning of the RCI. She has also developed special tools for Visually Impaired children.

The training started on 05/11/2015. A brief introduction about the history and current work of the Prayas Institute was provided. After the introduction, Dr. Pooja delivered a talk on ‘Special Child and Normal Child - Milestone Development’. After that, every trainee was asked to make a chart which has 4 columns. On Column 1, trainees were asked to write what they already know, on Column 2, what they want to learn, and on Column 3, what they learnt and remarks on Column 4.

On 6th, Ms. Sujata delivered a lecture on ‘Individualized Education Plans’. The lecture dealt IEPs in detail over the course of a year. Five main areas of development of a child were identified. These include:

(i) Personal(ii) Social(iii) Academic(iv) Vocational and (v) Recreational

Each of these areas was dealt with in detail. How to select specific one to one skill, how to make plan for one academic year, how to work according to the specific needs of child was also discussed in the lecture. She also explained to the trainees how to develop a curriculum for the children with special needs. In the afternoon, the trainees were asked to prepare an IEP for a child from their respective institution and after that a Case history file was given and the trainees were asked to read and explain it when they come for training following day.

On 7th November, all the trainees were divided among groups of five. A total of 8 different groups were formed. Each group was asked to fill in the case history file of a child from the school of any one in the group and discuss the case and prepare IEP for that child for one academic year. Once the IEPs were made, each group was asked to present the IEP in front of the whole class. The IEP presentation had to cover the Child Case History, then the Child Current Level, then Objectives and Task Analysis, then Teaching Aides and Finally the Process. This exercise gave the trainee a comprehensive knowledge about how to plan and cater to the needs of individual child. In the afternoon, the trainees were asked about the hands on

problems faced by them in their respective organizations while teaching and solutions to those problems were discussed and doubts cleared.

After that, the workshop was wrapped up and each trainee was given the certificate of participation.

14th Anjali National Children Festival 2015 (14 th to 18 th Nov)

Anjali Inter National Children Festival is an extravaganza organized by the ‘Swabhiman Foundation’ based out of Bhubaneswar (Orissa). A cherished festival of literacy, creative and performing arts, it has been educating and inspiring young minds from across India since 2001 in the city of Bhubaneswar. A wide range of workshops, competitions, cultural programs, musical performance and exhibitions are organized in this festival.

The 14th edition of this festival was a great opportunity for our children because of its multifaceted activities and participation. It had participants from 2 neighboring countries (Sri Lanka & Bangladesh), 17 states and all thirty districts of Orissa. 1100 participants (670 children, 245 escorts and 185 volunteers) were present in the camp for 5 days. 3500 students from local schools visited the camp and were sensitized to the issues of children with special needs. 20 resource persons conducted workshops. 31 guests addressed campers and gave away the mementoes. 921 children contested in various competitions and 21 judges decided winners.

From Asha Ka Jharna, eight special children along with two team members Mr Vinod Saini and Ms Suman Sharma participated into 14th Anjali National Children's festival from 14th November to 18th November 2015. Students from our institution left for the camp by train originating from New Delhi on the fine morning of 12th November and reached Bhubaneshwar on 13th Night and campus of Anjali on the 14th morning.

On the first day, all children were enrolled into the camp and later they were given the list of workshops they could attend. Children from AKJ registered themselves for a variety of workshops like art, paper craft, paper quelling, dance, magic, sand art, pottery etc. After the registrations and the lunch, students were taken to the Ram Mandir from where the Carnival of Joy (cultural rally) was flagged off. Students from various states walked through eight long kilometers across the

capital city. Native art and dance forms were presented in the rally by the professional performers. Our students, though tired, really enjoyed the rally where they got an opportunity to see and understand the art and culture from other states of India. Nearly 5000 children participated in this mega show. After the rally, we returned to our rooms and took rest after having dinner.

The next day (Nov. 15th) after having breakfast, we went towards the main stage. There many cultural programs were being presented. We had to leave the venue by 10 as the workshops we registered previously had started. Till lunch, students attended the various workshops. Post lunch, we attended the dance competition. The dance completion went on till 5 in the evening thereafter cultural events were presented by kids (both regular and children with special needs). The chief guest of the evening was Mr. Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Orissa.

From 16th to 18th November, our schedule was almost the same. In the morning after breakfast, children attended the workshops they opted for. Then in the afternoon there would be many competitions organized. After the competition, in the evening there will be various cultural programs presented by the children. On the 16th evening our children presented an enthralling culture program themed on ‘Equal Opportunities for All’ on the stage which was applauded by one and all. On 17th, we went for a local sight-seeing tour of the city in the evening. We visited several temples. We were a little sad that we could not explore more due to paucity of time and distances involved.

AKJ children thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful event. On the camp each day, a specific festival was celebrated like Onam, Lohri, Christhmas, Rathyatra etc. Each day, the venues were decorated according to the festival that was celebrated and volunteers and participants from the respective culture presented their traditions. It was very entertaining and educating at the same time.

The workshops were a learning experience for the children without the constraints of a classroom. Workshops were models of joyful and alternate methods of learning. It gave general students and differently-abled students an opportunity to work together and interact with each other via learning. Following are the workshop details:

Paper Craft workshop: Children love to play with paper and create. Paper is a relatively inexpensive medium, readily available, and easier to work with

than the more complicated media. They learnt to make paper hangings, paper flowers, bouquets and animals.

Creative Dance Workshop: At the end of the workshop, Children were happy and enjoyed using different parts of the body, learning body rhythmic patterns of a dance. They also learnt story telling & putting movements to the stories. Children with disabilities and those without any coordinated very well with each other. The children with disabilities proved that they can face every situation in their life without any sadness.

Fine Art Workshop: On the first day, they were instructed to make a drawing from their own memory to known the skill and creativity. As per individual skill and requirement, various suggestions were made and demonstrated how to put them into practice. On second and third day, the instructor demonstrated landscape painting and animal figures. Children were given the freedom to work and tips were given at the time of coloring. All enjoyed the workshop and painted in with enthusiasm.

Magic Workshop: Both the differently abled and general students had the same eagerness to acquire al minute details of all tricks. The teacher was also very co-operative. They learnt magic from rope, cards, bottle, paper, bangles and coin. The instructor ended the class by saying no manner how far off dreams may seem now, they will achieve it one day because magic happens in real life too, if you want to make it happen. The children were really motivated after the workshop.

Paper Quilling and Paper Jewelry Workshop: Various techniques and patterns were demonstrated to the children. They were taught to make paper earrings. The children enjoyed the workshop and all of them wore those paper earrings that they made on the last day.

Pottery and Terracotta Workshop: In pottery workshop children learnt using the potter’s wheel. They made small diyas, bowls, plates and cups. In terracotta they learnt to make birds, toys, fish, peacock, tree with snake etc. Children loved moving their hands with the potter’s wheel creating cups, and cooking pots.

On the final night of the camp, many cultural programs were held. After this prizes were awarded to the winners of competitions by Dr. Sruti Mohapatra, Founder of Swabhiman. All the trainers who conducted the workshops were also felicitated.

After the camp, our children came back with a lot of new skills and life enriching experiences. They learnt many new skills in the workshops. They learned how to live independently and away from their parents and family. The camp also provided them to interact and work along with regular children. They were also exposed to various new cultures and tastes. The various festivals celebrated during the festival exposed the children to the diversity of the Indian culture and gave them more knowledge about the lifestyle and practices of different parts of the country. Through this camp, children availed a once in a life time chance to learn, interact and expose to new cultures. We are very happy we could provide our children such an opportunity courtesy ‘The Hans Foundation’.

NATIONAL CONVENTION OF SELF ADVOCATES FORUM OF INDIA (SAFI) (26 th to 27 th Nov) & National Parent Meet (28 th to 29 th Nov)

23rd National Parents Meet at Udaipur was successfully completed preceded by 2nd National Convention of Self Advocates. These four days 26th to 29th November were the culmination of backroom preparations for more than four months. It took meticulous planning, resource mapping, man power positioning, day to day monitoring and finally minute to minute execution from my end (in the capacity of Executive Committee Member from Rajasthan) to make this happen (First NPM at Rajasthan). More than 400 parents and intellectually challenged children across the country participated in these gala events.

REPORT ON THE NATIONAL 2nd CONVENTION OF SELF ADVOCATES FORUM OF INDIA (SAFI) HELD ON NOVEMBER 26-27, 2015 AT RAJASTHAN COLLEGE OF

AGRICULTURE, UDAIPUR, RAJASTHAN

The second National Convention was a grand success with the participation of One hundred and twelve self-advocates and 75 mentors, parents, officials from 17 states of India. The States represented were: Andhra Pradesh (including Telengana), Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamilnadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. There were nearly 20 volunteers from RMTT College to assist the National Convention.

SAFI President Ms. Mahalakshmi welcomed all the participants to the National Convention. Mr. Parthiban National Secretary gave an overview of Self Advocates Forum of India (SAFI). The invites guests made brief remarks and offered their felicitations. They gave their best wishes and ideas to how to make SAFI a strong and powerful organization in the future.The chief guest offered his support for SAFI in Udaipur. Prayas Sansthan Persons with Special Needs gave an awesome cultural performance. The Chief Guest in the inaugural function was Mr. O.P. Bunker IAS - -A.D.M (Additional Deputy Magistrate, Udaipur City and other Guests were :

1. Lt. Col. Dr. V K Gautam- National President Parivaar, Ahmedabad2. Mr. J.P Gadkari- Director, Projects and Development-Parivaar, Bangalore.3. Mr. Shiva Mohan Rao, Program Officer –CBM- SARO, Bangalore.4. Dr. Sunita Bhandari Secretary, Prayas Sansthan, Udaipur5. Mr. Sudeep Goyal, Director, Asha-Ka-Jharna, Nawalgarh, Rajasthan

Public Rally: As part of the SAFI Convention, a Public Rally was organized. Self Advocates and other delegates travelled in a procession on Camel carts carrying slogans on disability to create awareness among general public on Disability and SAFI. It was a 1.5 km walk on the main roads of Udaipur city flagged off by the City Police Commissioner.

Business Meeting: After lunch Safi Secretary Mr. Parthiban presented Annual report and gave presentation on the successful journey of SAFI. Then State leaders were invited one by one, to present their report with the support of Mentors, but SAFI representatives from states gave their report without the assistance of Mentors. Only one or two states used the service of a mentor. Delegates spoke in their own regional languages and it was translated in to English by the translators. The reports reflected on the positive growth of SAFI in major states.

Group Discussion: At the end of first day, participants were grouped based on regional languages for group discussion on the topics given as under:

Taking decisions. Political participation. Setting up SAFI groups. Legal Capacity and Decision Making.

Self advocates and Mentors then moved to various designated places for discussion assisted by the mentors. The discussion was for nearly one hour.

Day-2: The day two started with rendition of SAFI Theme Song and recitation. Mr. Pranay Burde and Ms. Devanshi Joshi shared their experiences of participating at the 12 th World Down Syndrome Conference (WDSC) held at Chennai earlier this year. The WDSC had a major theme on self advocacy by persons with Down Syndrome. Presentations: Group leaders from 12 groups made their presentations on the group discussion along with mentors. Mr. Parthiban, Secretary, SAFI made summary chart of the salient points as detailed below and presented it to the delegates. These were adopted as resolutions of the Second National Convention and approved by the General Council of SAFI.

The Salient Points Emerged from the Discussions were:Decision Making Political Improvement in

SAFILegal Capacity

* Right to marriage* Extensive use of Internet for communication*Being truthful*Opportunity for purchasing essentials* Opportunity to travel independently* To be consulted when decisions are made for me*Education is my right* According to my interest I will

Accessible clean toilet.

Demand for National ID Card

Fight for equal wages

To be job holder Earn money All PwDs

should be a voter

Be our own spoke person

Voting right and choose my leader

Of course we want

Expand membership

Create awareness

Not to be neglected or over protected

To train ourselves to be our own advocate

Organize training program for PwIDDs

Leader should be us

More groups to

We don’t want to depend on others

Police should take our complains

Individual bank account Treat our parents respectful

manner- representation on all policy making bodies as our spokespersons

Take action on violation against us

Fight against violations against us when we are united in group and result will come

We have property rights to buy and sell it.

We will fight for equal

choose my job* Right to spend my money* Rights to chose my friends and community* I have right to spend my time alone and whatever I want. Ex-playing listening music, watching TV etc.*I have right to choose my dress, food and everything should be my choice* I want to do business independently* Lead independent life* Right to select partner when proposal for marriage

and we have right to be in politics for good things done by us (if we come in politics):

o we can do all to fulfill for PwD

o We will give employment

o Equal opportunities to all intellectual disability

o we will give opportunities to study in inclusive education system/ or special education as may be needed

Appoint a self advocates as a council member/ representative in all consultative bodies

be formed to strength our demands

Create awareness about self advocacy and start SAFI group in all states

o Skill training program and small workshops for self advocates

Publish SAFI directory all India level

Use of twitter for group sharing

Separated events for male and female SAFI members

opportunities and equal rights

We will fight against sexual harassment and take legal action

We want to be representative in legal matter

e want insurance sensitization helpline no free hospitalization separated line in holy

places There should be 1%

reservation for persons with intellectual disabilities in 5% reservation proposed in new RPD Bill.

Accessibility in govt. building, housing board.

Proper implementation of draft

* We want more special educators in schools

To have * Credit Cards

Open Session: The outcome of the sessions was:

(a) Self advocates and Mentors were given opportunities to air their views in the open session. Parents also joined in expressing their views. (b) Delegates from new states were very impressed with the capacity of self advocates to speak about their issues. They assured that they will go back and promote self advocacy groups. They wanted support for organizing training programs.(c) There should be state level conventions every year.

Valedictory: The two day session came to an end with an open cultural program by participating delegates.

Report on National Parent Meet Held on 28 th & 29 th November 2015 at Udaipur

The National Parent Meet (NPM) was held at Udaipur on 28 th & 29th November 2015. The NPM was conducted by PARIVAAR NCPO and sponsored by NIMH/ Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. The NPM was hosted by Prachya Shodh Peeth of Prayass Sansthan, a parent NGO located in Udaipur. The venue of NPM was Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur.

Inauguration

The inauguration session of NPM was held on 28th Nov 15 where more than 550 delegates from all over the country attended. The Chief Guest was Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Home Minister of Rajasthan. Other dignitaries included Shri Arjun Lal Meena, Local MP, Shri Phool Chand Meena, Local MLA, Shri Chander Singh Kothari, Mayor of Udaipur, Shri Parminder Beshera, Vice Chancellor, MPUAT, Shri Jayanti Jain, Addl Commissioner, Shri S S Sharma, AGM, SBI Shri DK Menon, Ex Director NIMH. Shri Gulab Chand Katari spoke about role of parents in bringing out the best out of their special child. He exhorted the delegates to do their best and consider it the greatest service to humanity. Other dignitaries’ also spoke well, the highlight being the announcement of a park for persons with disability by the Mayor of Udaipur on request from local delegates. Officials from Parivaar, NCPO and NIMH were also seated on the dais and welcomed the dignitaries.

Technical Sessions

The technical session started with Cdr. Bijur speaking on Rights & Legal Entitlements where he brought out many rights & provisions available in host of Acts, apart from PwD Act 1995. He called upon the parents to make use of the provisions of different Acts for the benefit of PwIDDs.

Mr Rajiv Rathuri explained the provisions of RPD bill and the latest amendments proposed by Parliamentary Committee some of which are likely to be incorporated in the bill.

The second technical session was on Accessibility & Skill development taken up by Mr PS Burde who explained the campaign focus and plan.

Mr Anil Joshi described the status of National Trust schemes and some impediments in the working of LLCs at district level.

Mr Philip Simon described various skill building schemes, need to form Self Help Groups by parents with successful cases from his Kerala state.

Mrs Sunita Bhandari provided glimpses of skill development initiative taken up by Prayas, Udaipur and included some practical examples to explain the concept and its implementation.

In the evening there was an enjoyable cultural program organized by Prayas. The program started with various single and group items and followed up by giving opportunity to all persons with disability present and group dance celebrations.

The second day program included an interesting session on Early Intervention care by Dr. Mousumi Bhaumik from NIMH. She introduced Early Intervention concept and care providing a deed insight backed up by theory and very interesting practical examples. Dr Bhaumik also described various schemes and initiatives taken by government departments and the challenges faced during implementation.

Dr DK Menon in his address introduced tool for care giver to assess their performance and make changes for achieving the next level in care provision.

Ms. Fairlene Soji of CBM provided a overview of Inclusive Education while Dr Meenakshi Srivastava dwelled on the academic aspects of Inclusive Education and conceptual planning behind this endeavor.

The last technical session on Self advocacy was made interesting by Col Gautam by showing practically the mind of PwIDDs and their need for recognition.

Mr Prathiban, a self-advocate himself, drew the attention to the requirements of self-advocacy forum for taking stronger roots.

International Day for Persons with Disability (3 rd Dec) Disability Awareness Week (4 th to 10 th Dec)

World Disability Day 2015 was observed and celebrated on a large canvass by Asha Ka Jharna at Nawalgarh. This year all our three special schools at Nawalgarh, Sikar and Jhunjhunu participated in a unified event to put up a great show aimed at inclusion and sensitization among community. We invited 230 children (studying from Grade 5 to 8) from Nine regular normal schools (6 reputed public schools & 3 Government schools). They were integrated with 180 of our special children (Mentally Challenged & Hearing Impaired) in a human chain.

Awareness Rally:

Day started at 9.30 AM with the flagging off awareness rally named ‘ Badhte Kadam’ (Let’s March Forward) by First citizen of town (Municipal Committee Chairman) Mr Surendra Saini , SHO Police Station (Deputed by DSP) Mr Kailash Chand Gurjar , local ward member Mr Naem along with our Special Girl Monika. 400 children (under the supervision of 35 AKJ and normal school educators) carried play cards, banners and balloons depicting following awareness slogans:

Pass the RPD Bill We Need Solidarity Not Pity We Have Equal Rights We Can Do Equal Opportunities for Us Look upon our Abilities, Not Disability Disability is not a Curse Make us Your Strength, Not Weakness We have to Knock on Every Door to mitigate Disability related Sufferings Constitution Gives Us Equal Rights to Live, Education, Voting, Recreation,

Livelihood, Participation in Decision Making, Free Expression & Speech

This was a eye catching rally with a band leading the convoy and children shouting slogans and waving play cards. We made the 4 KM route such as to pass through dense main market , one rural bus stand , one college , three senior secondary schools , two hospitals , grain market , cloth market , vegetable mandi , Muslim Mohallas , Jama Masjid , congested populated lanes so as to catch maximum eyeballs. Persons ventured outside of their shops to look & comment at rally. Two

Hours long rally was flagged in at 11.30 AM by Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM Nawalgarh) Mr Bhagirath Sakh and Media Persons at Surya Mandal Public Ground. He wished all children all the best for day ahead. During the rally procession, snacks and juice were served to children at three places.

TOTAL COMMUNITY SENSITIZED: 4000 (Approx.)

Inter School Sports Events :

After half an hour rest, second leg was started at 12’o clock. We had planned 10 sporting events as follow:

50 Meter Race100 Meter RaceLong JumpHigh JumpSack RaceSpoon RaceMusical ChairZalebi RaceThree Legged RaceTug - O – War

Along with these, a Drawing & Painting Competition was also organized.

All the children (with prior registered entries) participated in these competitions enthusiastically. They were extremely excited and thrilled to integrate with our special children whom we had placed in every event. Their teachers were initially apprehensive but when AKJ children bagged top positions in few games, they cheered up their students to take it seriously. Out of 33 prizes, twelve were won by AKJ children. After one and a half hour of sporting extravaganza with both sections of children fighting for crowning glory , children were served lunch and juice.

Inter School Cutural Program :

At 2 PM, finally it was time to shake the legs. We had invited the entries in Group Dance and Solo Dance categories. Five of the schools participated in both categories whereas our three units presented three group performances. Again it was a mesmerizing show with audience applauding every dance move of our

children. Out of six awards in this program, two were won by AKJ as judged by external dignitary.

At 3.45 PM prize distribution ceremony was conducted with Lions Club President Dr D S Jangid and State Bank of India Manager Mr Gupta giving away the prizes to winners.

In this program, apart from top position holders, each and every participant normal school student (230) was given a prize along with Nine (9) school mementoes. Day long events finally ended at 4.15 PM with school teams’ departure. Our objective of awareness building & integration was successfully achieved as evident from the cross talks we heard everywhere.

Whole program was widely appreciated by community and those present. It was covered by local print media with due recognition to The Hans Foundation, New Delhi – Our Funding & Strategic Partner!

Observation of Disability Week at Regular Schools

This year, we not only celebrated one day but whole week was dedicated for bringing disability as a focal point among regular school children and teaches. From 4th to 10th December 2015, at Sikar, Asha Ka Jharna team along with our project CHILDLINE (1098) members visited seven schools (Both Govt and Pvt) after taking prior permission from the respective principals. There a lecture on disability related issues followed by simulation exercises were delivered. Children were blind folded; handcuffed; legs were joined; incoherent talk spoken to make them understand how it feels to be a person with visual, locomotor and intellectual disability. This was a new and unique experience not only for school children but their teachers too. Outcome of sensitization and empathy for special children was achieved through these talks & exercises. Our team also came across few special needs children at the schools to whom appropriate counselling was provided.

Around 1000 students and staff members were covered.

Capacity Building and Leadership Training Workshop (11 th to 13 th Dec)

Introduction:

PARIVAAR- NCPO, New Delhi conducted ‘Capacity Building and Leadership Training’ Workshop from 11th to 13th Dec, 2015 for leaders of NGOs working in the PwD sector in the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The workshop was conducted at National Institute of Cooperative Management located at Gandhinagar.

Participants:

In all 66 participants (55 delegates and 11 resource persons) attended the workshop. Most of them were young in age associated with PwIDD field and leading grass root Parent Units/ NGOs. The participants included 25 from Gujarat, 15 from Madhya Pradesh and 12 from Rajasthan. Rest were from state of Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Odisha, Karnataka and Tripura (NE region).

Workshop Curriculum: A copy of workshop program is enclosed, as Appendix. The curriculum of three days workshop was designed in a manner to provide participants:

(a) Perspective on rights and entitlements of persons with disability. (b) Administration of NGO/ DPO/ Parent organization.(c) Human Resource Management and Organizational behavioural aspects. (d) Resource mobilization and accounting system including FCRA(e) Case study for leadership orientation.

Execution of the Workshop:

Resource Persons: Galaxy of resource persons were drawn from leaders of NGOs with in-depth experience on the subject. Most sessions started with short presentation by RPs followed by discussion. Each session had a panel of two experts and in the end panellists shared their experiences as well.

Focus Areas: The workshop focused on building a managerial perspective among the participants and encouraged participants to evolve their own thought process on subjects concerning the management of NGO operations. It was interactive and live examples based. RPs also touched upon the following aspects:

a) The speakers encouraged the participants to look at the aspects of disability from various point of views; parents, community, government and NGOs and drive ways to synergize a collaboration among all these stakeholders. The employment and rehabilitation was discussed in terms of making PwDs self-reliant and the organizations self-sustainable. The need was to find what a PwD can do and what he likes to enjoy doing.

b) In the management orientation sessions the participants were provided with a administrator view of regulatory compliances, financial review, human resources management, FCRA management and organization developments. These subjects provided a perspective of management of NGOs and complying with statutory regulations. This was followed by in depth sessions for apprising the participant on developing communication with the community and individuals for mobilization of resources for running the NGO. The prerequisite of organization capability in terms of transparency, robustness and responsible for generating confidence among the donors and funding agencies, was also highlighted.

c) The participants also worked on real life case studies based on NGOs’ experience. The case studies dealt with aspects of management, leadership, crisis management, sustainability and strategic planning. There was very active participation from both participants as well as resource persons. This was followed by state leaders providing details of schemes and incentives available for individual PwDs as well as NGOs.

d) The generation of resources for NGOs is a weak area. This was discussed thread bare in a very inspiring two sessions spanning 4 hours. It boosted participant's confidence for preparing their NGOs to dream big and grow. Also provided was a fresh and simple road map for resource mobilization.

e) The general regulatory framework governing NGOs was explained in a practical, uncomplicated and simple manner along with steps to go ahead. The entire FCRA provisions were explained in a quiz form !

Course Material:

The course material consisting of workshop program, copy of presentations to be made by resource persons, reading material and case studies authored by Resource Persons, with each speaker’s profile for future references as well. This hand book was provided to all participants and the RPs, in the beginning of program.

Feedback: During the Closing session representatives of various states/ NGOs spoke highly about the workshop. Each one mentioned that it was unique learning experience, full of knowledge sharing and igniting new thought process. They also said that the workshop broadened their perspective of Disability, Generation of resources and Management of their organization.

Conclusion:

The three day ‘Capacity Building Workshop and Leadership Training workshop’ met the required objective in toto in training the middle level managers on the aspects of management of NGOs & DPOs. They received leadership inputs coupled with experience to work on case studies based on live examples of NGOs. Such capacity building workshop will enable building

robust and competent NGOs in PwD sector and in turn catalyse formation of right based regime in disability sector.

Workshop for Capacity Building of State Federations & Parent Organizations11th - 13th December 2015 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat

Date Time Topic Speaker/ Remarks11th Dec 09-

10.00Registration and welcome tea Mr. G K Patel & G S Patel

11th Dec 10 A.M - 11.00 AM

Inauguration*Welcome & Inaugural function by Host NGO*Introduction of Parivaar by President*Key-note address by Chief Guest*Concluding remarks by Coordinator

State Commissioner for Disabilities- Chief Guest

Er. Rajubhai Shah - Industrialist

11th Dec 11.30 - 1.00 P.M

Session I – Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Early Intervention & Education*Perspective on Intellectual disability*Prevention & Early Intervention Care*Special & Inclusive Education.*Panel Discussion & QA

Speakers: Dr. Shanti Auluck , Dr Divakar Bhai Shah, Mr Vijay Kant

Panel:1. Dr Shanti Auluck - Chair

2. Dr Divakar Bhai Shah

3. Mr Vijay Kant

11th Dec 1.00 – 1.45 P.M

Lunch Break

11th Dec 1.45 - 3.15 P.M

Session II – Employment & Rehabilitation of PwIDDs:

Skill building & Vocational Training

Employment & Self Help Groups

Group & Residential Centers

Panel Discussion & QA

Speakers: Cdr. SN Bijur, Dr. Shanti Auluck, Mr Vishnu Patel

Panel:1. Cdr. Shrirang Bijur -

Chair

2. Dr Shanti Auluck

3. Mr Vishnu D Patel

11th Dec 3.30 – 5.30 P.M

Session III – Legal Provisions:*Introduction to INCHEON strategy & UNCRPD

Speakers: Col VK Gautam, Mr Akhil PaulPanel:

*PwD Act 1995 & RPD Bill, 2013*National Trust Act & Legal Capacity*Q & A

1. Col VK Gautam - Chair

2. Mr Akhil Paul

3. Mr Sudeep Goyal

11th Dec 5.30 – 7.30 P.M

Akshar Dham Visit By Host NGO

12th

Dec09.30 A.M – 11.15 AM

Session IV – Management of NGOs:*NGOs, DPOs & Parent organization*Registration & statutory obligations*Accounts & Audits*Income Tax provisions*FCRA provisions*Q & A

Speakers: Mr. Shiva Mohan Rao, CBM , Mr Parth DesaiPanel:

1. Mr.Shiva Mohan Rao, CBM - Chair

2. Mr Parth Desai (Auditor),

3. Cdr Shrirang Bijur

12th

Dec11.30 - 1.00 P.M

Session V – HRD & Leadership:*Human Behavior (TA, HA Maslow)*Job Profiling & KPIs*Organization Processes*Leadership & Delegation*Q & A

Speakers: Cdr SN Bijur, Col VK GautamPanel :

1. Col VK Gautam - Chair

2. Cdr. SN Bijur

3. Mr Vijay Kant

12th

Dec1.00 – 1.45 P.M

Lunch Break

12th

Dec1.45 - 3.15 P.M

Session VI – Proposal Writing & Communication:*Effective Communication*Proposal Components & Writing* Effective Use of Electronic Media*Q & A

Speakers: Mrs. Nandini Rawal (Communication strategy & Electronic media), Col. VK Gautam (Proposal writing)Panel:

1. Ms Nandini Rawal - Chair

2. Col VK Gautam

3. Mr Sudeep Goyal

12th

Dec3.30 – 5.00 P.M

Session VII – Fund Raising:*Fund Raising Avenues*Type of Donors & Characteristics*Training & Preparation for Meeting*Strategic Assessment & Setting Own Targets

Speaker – Dr. Bhushan Punani, Ms. Nandini RawalPanel:

1. Dr Bhushan Punani - Chair

2. Ms. Nandini Rawal

12th

Dec5.00 – 5.30 P.M

Allocation & Elaboration on Case studies for 13th Dec 15

13th

Dec9.30 – 11.30 AM

Session VIII – Case Studies Presentation & Discussion*Starting a Parent Organization*Sustaining Parent Unit through human resource development*Developing Partnership With Local Government; collaborative approach*Fund Collection for a state parent federation; rag to riches

Participants will be divided in 8 groups. Four case studies will be divided among 8 groups. Groups will prepare in the evening/ night of 12th Dec. Each group will present their solution followed by open discussions for each topic. Moderators:Cdr SN Bijur – ChairGroup Leaders

13th

Dec11.45 - 1.30 P.M

Session IX – Rights & Provisions*State schemes (Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan)*Govt. of India & National Trust schemes*Self Advocates & Parent Activism

Speakers: Mr Sudeep Goyal (Raj) Mr Vishnu D Patel (Guj) Mr Mahesh Rathod (MP)

13th

Dec1.30 – 2.15 P.M

Lunch Break

13th

Dec2.15 - 4.00 P.M

Session X – Closing Session; Distribution of Certificates, feedback followed by Visit to BPA (I) & BM Institute.

25th ANNUAL ALL INDIA NATURE STUDY CUM ADVENTURE CAMP FOR THE CHALLENGED CHILDREN & YOUTH (17 TO 23 DECEMBER 2015)

Himalayan Nature and Adventure Foundation is a leading registered NGO based in Siliguri, West Bengal. Over the years, Nature Study cum Adventure Camp organized by environmental enthusiasts Mr.Animesh Basu &Mr.Shankar Mazumdar and their fabulous team mates of HNAF has been the most anticipated event. Camp is unique of its style in the country and it offers variety of challenges to children with varied range of disabilities through camping activities. To the disbelief of many, these children perform to their level best in overcoming these challenges and go back to their places with full of self-confidence and motivation to perform better in their day to day life. This year, camp site was in the lap of pristine nature at Sundarey Village, Samsing Forests, District Darjeeling (West Bengal) close to Sikkim. The campers with their escorts come from various institutions from all over India giving the children an opportunity to interact with their peers and develop an interest in nature and activities like trekking and camping along with self-help skills.

Team from our organization left from Sikar & Nawalgarh, Rajasthan on December 15th evening; boarded train from New Delhi on 16th morning and reached the New Jalpaigudi Railway station by 17th evening. Since most of the children had never been out of Rajasthan, even the journey was a new learning experience. The journey through the busy streets of Delhi, long train journey and through the meandering roads amidst the tea gardens of West Bengal provided the children a unique experience to explore new culture and life styles.

On December 18th, after the bus journey of three hours through hills along the Teesta River, we reached the main campsite in the noon. It was beautiful and well organized with 15 colorful pitched tents along with kitchen, dining hall, evening assembly hall and toilet blocks erected. Ten of our special children along with two special educators Mr Bansidhar Verma and Mr Pradeep Kumar were part of nearly 200 campers (children with all disabilities) across the region which was divided into seven teams according to their age & abilities. Various activities were planned for the campers with the intention of inculcating Confidence, instilling leadership and companionship, promoting team spirit and learning life skills. On the first day of camp, we were allotted tents for stay and food was provided. In the afternoon after officially inauguration of the camp, the HNAF flag was hoisted. As this was HNAF 25th Glorious Year Celebration, dignitaries were invited from disability sector including IICP Founder Mrs Ranu Banerjee, Mrs Kanchan Gaba, Mrs Renu Seharia , Mr Rajendra Nath Rai from Kiran Society , Prof. Abhijit Karkun from JNU & Mr Sudeep Goyal from AKJ. General meeting was conducted to explain the plan for the days to come and children were made acclimatize to the camp site and various facilities. Camp Caps and ID cards were provided to each of the child.

On the second day of the camp, a trekking event was organized for the children where they were taken to a nearby mountain and then to a very beautiful rivulet. The trek was through a forest and on the way many things were taught about the various plants and animals found there. Also the importance of preserving the forest was explained to the children. Once we reached the river, the children were overwhelmed with joy and we made them cross the river through the water by holding their hands. Also, the guides and escorts showed the children how to make bridges of ropes and huts with bare minimum things found in the forest. By this time it had been evening and camp fire was made. Students were taught to make fire using dry wood and later on how to properly put off fire. After evening tea, the students were taken back to the camp and a diary was provided to them in which they had to write their experiences each day. After writing the reports, students were involved in a variety of games and events of their choice and had a great time. All Campers assembled in Evening Hall where they were made to interact with each other to share their experience after which dinner was served post which the students were counted and then taken back to their respective tents and thus came an end to the eventful Day 2.

On Third day, after finishing morning activities and breakfast campers were taken for a 5 Km hike and swimming in the river. The journey was long and tiring and the way was very tough and narrow. Hence breaks were taken at regular intervals ensuring that all kids were fine. Once we reached the river, separate places were allotted for girls and boys, with separate staff for ensuring safety. All the children particularly ours were really delighted. Post lunch, the children took rest, made their journal entry and then went on to take part in various sports and activities arranged for them. In the evening, a meeting was held in the evening hall where students were asked to share their experiences along with cultural performances. Post dinner, a special meeting was called for the teachers so that their suggestions and concerns could be taken and follow up actions be implemented.

On the fourth day, much intensive training was scheduled for the students. After daily morning PT and Yoga, all students were asked to assemble at the ground and were provided training on various physical skills. The first training was on obstacle clearance. Children were made to clear a big wall made of wood with pegs inserted at many places for grip and foot rest. Most students were very enthusiastic in participating in the activity and cleared the obstacle. After lunch, students were taken on a jungle trekking. The trekking route was much tougher than the previous days but the guides and staff helped the kids in trekking. Once the campers reached the campsite inside jungle, the experts taught them about various adventurous

skills like making nets out of ropes and climbing on such nets. After that students were taught how to make bridges from ropes and the children were trained in crossing such bridges. In all the above training, adequate security measures like hinges were ensured so that no child gets hurt or injured during the trainings. Once the training sessions were over, children returned to the base camp, where they had food and took rest. Later they were asked to fill in their journal after which they engaged in their daily leisure and sport activities. In the evening, meeting was held and every child was inspected for any sort of injury and ensured that everybody was fine. Post dinner, the children were sent to their tents and discussions was organized for teachers, guides and support staff to ensure plan for the next day.

On Fifth day of camping (22nd December), after having breakfast, students were taken to the jungle and taught how to erect tents. After that, many cultural events, planned and organized by students were held. Students were asked to prepare a drama for the awareness on the need for protection of environment. Children participated in the drama with extreme interest and enjoyed watching their friends performing. After that, students were taken to the river for swimming. Post the swimming session, a campfire was made in the jungle and food was cooked and served in the forest itself. By evening, the children returned to the base camp. In the evening, various cultural events were held, which were started after the ceremonious lighting of a big campfire. Some performed drama while some others had prepared mono acts, and some others sang songs. The celebrations were over by 9 PM after which dinner was served and then the students were sent to their camps. Special meeting was held for the teachers and staff to record their feedback. On 23rd of December, we all woke. It was very evident that all students were very sad as it was their last day in the camp. After breakfast, students were asked to clean their respective tents and pack their bags. Once the students got ready and packed the bags, a final assembly was held. There the Certificate of Attendance was distributed to every camper and group photos were also clicked. After the meeting food was served. Post lunch, the children boarded bus to Siligudi. Since our train back home was on 24th December, we had to stay there for a day in a hotel. The rooms were very comfortable and children had a good experience staying there enjoying proper bath and food after six days of tent life.

The next day after breakfast, we checked out of the hotel and went on a local tour of the Siligudi city. We took them to the City Center Mall which was also a first for all of them. We roamed in the mall for some time then we went on a trip on toy train which the children enjoyed very much. Later we went to a local carnival. We visited a lot of stalls and the children rode motorized toy cars. They had a lot of fun

there. By then, it was afternoon and we had to leave as it was almost time for our train. We went back to hotel, had lunch and left for the station. On 24 th evening, we bid good bye to West Bengal and reached Jaipur on 26th early morning and finally to Sikar/ Nawalgarh by 10 am. Then we dropped all children to their homes. They were evidently very happy for the whole experience. Opportunities like this rarely come across for a child with disability. Camp like this, open new experiences and learning to these children. New friends were made, new lessons learned and moreover they got a much needed opportunity to visit lands faraway and understand and see the culture and way of life of the people country side. Our objective to instill confidence and building character in children was met. Asha Ka Jharna does hope to take children to more camps like this and give them an opportunity to see the world beyond their closeted shells at homes.

Our Sincere Gratitude and Heart felt Appreciation & Acknowledgement to The Hans Foundation for being instrumental in making this event possible.

Festivals ,Occasions & Special Days Celebrations

AKJ celebrates / observes all major festivals, functions, occasions and special days in the year wherein we also invite community members to motivate them. Following are some of the noteworthy days during the reported period: Navratri, Ravan Dahan, Deepawali and Christmas were celebrated with customary enthusiasm and vigor. Municipal Committee Chairman and other social leaders were present on 24th December (X Mas Eve) where cake was cut and pastry / chocolates distributed by the Santa Claus.

Thus Came To End An Eventful Year 2015