Breaking Barriers

Some days back we celebrated the International Day of Disability marking a milestone in an inclusive society. People with disability often are treated with pity and regret, yet they continue to embark on a journey that is difficult to climb, dream, and achieve. Disability or disabled is a marginalized section of the society for whom accessibility in any form such as education, job, marriage, and family is impossible. Sustainable Development Goals speaking of inclusivity, sustainability and equitability proves an international parameter to focus on such communities and take a step together for development.

The Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS) in Bemina, Srinagar, has been at the forefront of promoting inclusivity and bridging the gap to international healthcare standards since its establishment in 1970 by Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool. Dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, VMS offers a range of services, including rehabilitation centers, sports teams, health clinics, and transportation for members. Recently, VMS has partnered with Durrein Tea, a homegrown healthcare oriented herbal and flower tea brand from Kashmir, to provide employment opportunities for specially-abled youth. This collaboration marks a new chapter in empowering individuals with disabilities, creating a sustainable pathway for their inclusion in the workforce.

Mr. Asrar Durrani, the visionary founder of Durrein Tea, is a distinguished social entrepreneur and businessman dedicated to challenging the societal stereotypes associated with disability. Through his pioneering efforts, he strives to cultivate a more inclusive and equitable society. His company has made significant strides in addressing accessibility issues that individuals with disabilities often face, creating an environment where they can thrive both personally and professionally.

At Durrein Tea, Mr. Durrani has developed a sustainable and inclusive workspace that caters specifically to the needs of differently-abled individuals, allowing them to fully engage in the company’s work culture. By recruiting specially-abled youth across various departments—including sales, packaging, and manufacturing—he has demonstrated his commitment to fostering inclusivity. According to Mr. Durrani, “Their unique skills enable them to work with remarkable dedication and efficiency, which in turn enhances overall productivity.” He further emphasises, “They inspire and motivate us. What we are doing is simply providing the essential space for them to flourish.”

Durrein Tea is a trailblazing company that not only seeks to dismantle barriers but also strives to uplift marginalized communities, integrating them into the mainstream workforce and offering them opportunities for growth and empowerment.

While interacting with one of the employees of Durrein Tea, who has just 10% vision, one gets this response: “It’s a dream come true to work at the front desk and talk to customers. This has never been the case. Even if we are recruited by other companies we are mostly at the factory or in production. But for the first time, I am managing a desk and trying to be an efficient employee of the company.” He further adds: ‘No matter my vision is impaired but I am here earning for a living and looking after my family and not begging’. I thank VMS and Durrein Tea for believing in me and providing with this opportunity. The company is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment, implementing policies that ensure accessibility and equal opportunities for all employees. As part of this commitment, employers undergo a month-long training program designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to seamlessly integrate into the workplace. This thoughtful preparation made it easier for them to adapt and contribute meaningfully, enabling them to drive positive change. The company’s inclusive approach not only values diversity but actively supports the professional growth of every individual, ensuring a work culture where everyone can thrive.

Durrein Tea recently exhibited its products in collaboration with VMS at Chirgish, an inter-departmental festival of the University of Kashmir from 6^th to 8^th Nov 2024. The founder of the company Mr Asrar was present all 3 days while guiding and helping his employees and explaining his goal for his company to various news agencies. He is planning on expanding his company and providing more employment opportunities to the secluded community of the society. He also highlights the importance of gender equality within the specially-abled community, noting that simple changes like accessible washrooms can make a significant difference, enabling more women to participate fully in the economy.

As we near an inclusive and just society, businessmen like Mr Asrar Durrani and organizations like Voluntary Medicare Society bring hope to the many who otherwise feel unseen. As a society, it’s our duty to create an equal and fair community where everyone is treated the same, irrespective of disability, gender, or religion.

As customers and integral members of the economy, we should place our trust in these companies, supporting their growth to drive meaningful change that benefits us all. These organizations shine a spotlight on social entrepreneurship, inspiring us to believe in the power of working toward a greater social cause.

Murchana Baishya, a resident of Assam, is Pursuing MA Gender Studies at Kashmir University