The Blind Relief Association, Delhi

The organisation runs various programmes to support visually impaired individuals. It operates Jormal Periwal Memorial Senior Secondary School, offering free education, accommodation, assistive devices, and holistic services for visually impaired boys up to Class XII. Additionally, a Special Care Unit caters to students with learning disabilities, aiming to integrate them by enhancing academic and independent living skills. Its Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education provides a Bachelor of Education programme for visually impaired students and trains teachers. Furthermore, it pioneered computer literacy with a diploma course for visually impaired adults and JPM school students, ensuring they learn essential applications using screen reading software. Many graduates of its programmes have secured employment across various sectors.

The organisation offers vocational training to visually impaired adults aged 18-35. It includes programmes like relaxation massage, multi-skill training, candle making, and collaboration with Youth4Jobs. The relaxation massage course teaches massage techniques, anatomy, and reflexology. The multi-skill training covers various crafts and vocational skills, welcoming trainees without specific educational prerequisites. Candle making produces diverse candles, involving trainees, employees, and volunteers. Collaborating with Youth4Jobs, it enhances employability through English communication, computer literacy, and life skills, funded by Microsoft. These initiatives empower visually impaired individuals by providing diverse skills for employment and entrepreneurship, fostering independence and inclusion.

The organisation engages in multiple services for visually impaired individuals. Its Placement Cell secures jobs and supports newly employed individuals, aiding in their settling process. Orientation and Mobility training, Braille production, and audiobook recording further empower these individuals in education and skill development. Health care services cover medical needs, while boarding and lodging are provided for around 300 individuals. Awareness efforts involve engaging students in talent contests, participating in public events, and organising the popular Diwali Bazar, fostering community awareness of disability. Additionally, the Association offers consultancy and expertise to other institutions seeking guidance on establishing disability services, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

The organisation actively promotes sports for the visually impaired. It initiated the first National Sports Meet for the Blind in 1982, leading to the formation of the Indian Blind Sports Association (IBSA) in 1986. IBSA has grown to become the premier national body for blind sports with international affiliations. Outstanding para-sportspersons nurtured by this association received prestigious awards, including the Arjuna Award and coaching accolades. IBSA regularly organises national sports meets and coaching camps in various sports, sending talented athletes to international events, and fostering a robust sports culture for the visually impaired.