For five years, Jitender Kumar was unable to find employment. He gave interviews every week, was rejected constantly, and sank into depression as sources of income dwindled and he became increasingly dependent on his parents for financial support.
Mr. Kumar is 33, married, and has two daughters. He is also an amputee with no left leg.
People with disabilities are among the most excluded in Indian society. According to a 2007 World Bank report, disabled adults in India have far lower employment rates than others – reduced from 43% in 1991 to 38% in 2002.
“In one factory where I went seeking work, the manager told me I was a burden on society. He insulted me and threw me out,” says Mr. Kumar. “I am disabled. But I am also an honest and hard-working man.”
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