ANNUAL

REPORT
2017-2018 www.samarthanam.org
 CONTENTS PAGE
04 10

03 08 12
21 31

15 27 37
46 56

41 48 60

03 Founder’s note 27 Environment

04 Samarthanam at a glance 31 Sports

08 Essence of Samarthanam 37 Arts & Culture

10 Samarthanam reach 41 Rehabilitation

12 Our well-wishers 46 Health & Nutrition

14 Goals for 2019 48 Management Discussion & Analysis

15 Education 56 Finance and Accounts

21 Livelihood Resource Centre 60 Samarthanam in news

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 2

T wenty Years of Samarthanam is not just a milestone but the

FOUNDER’S NOTE
hallmark of our fraternity’s continuous efforts towards empowering
the Persons with Disabilities and the under served. This Annual Report
houses the past reflections and the present strategies followed by the
future innovations. The struggle to surpass the horizon of hope ensures
this year with an aim to reach over a 100,000 lives by the year 2020 which
Mahantesh GK
is the ideology of our vision. Founder Managing Trustee

Last year may be deemed as one of the most eventful years. We hosted
two “walk for green walk-a-thon” events in Bangalore and Lucknow
respectively while another “Walk for the Employment of Persons

“
with Disabilities Walk-a-Thon 2018” which was hosted in Dharward.
These events witnessed an overwhelming number of keen participants,
well-wishers, supporters, and some of the well-known cricketers and
celebrities who made these events a grand success.
Last year may be
The turning point in the history of our foundation was winning the
deemed as one of the
National Award and Andhra Pradesh State Award, and Kempegowda
Award for excellent work in the field of Disability garnering additional most eventful years...
recognition where Samarthanam became a synonym equivalent of
empowerment of the disabled and the underprivileged.

For a Cricket crazy nation like ours where the game is a religion to many,
reclaiming the continual victorious streak of the Indian Cricket team
for the Blind on the International soil by winning the World Cup for the
fourth time was an honor. This victory was well appreciated and
commended by the eminent political and movie personalities where they
expressed their affections using social media wherein the Prime Minister
and the honorable President to name a few actively tweeted our
achievement. The CavinCare Ability Award, CNBC TV 18 India Business
Leader Award, etc. proved equally important in garnering additional
recognition.

The cultural-arm of our non-profit showcased vibrant performances in

the UK and the US in particular which has triggered the possibilities of
promoting our culture via artists with disabilities prompting for setting
up our offices in Singapore, and Canada to name a few. We also
established the Skilling Center in Chennai and Mumbai; from here on
we are looking at a full-on expansion at a PAN-Indian and a global level.
Would like to mention about some new-found partnerships which will
ultimately accelerate our progress towards reaching our current five-year
plan of Vision 2020.

On a personal note, I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation

to the Govt of India, and to the Minister of Social Justice and
Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot for their undying support. A
special thanks to the Australian High Commission for their contributions
to Inclusiveness in sports. Further thanking all those who have supported
us last year, we are grateful to you and hoping for the continued synergies
to transcend time. Also hoping to augment our reach with newer
associations paving the way towards empowering the persons with
disabilities and to reach our Goal 2020 that envisages touching at least
100,000 lives by 2020, providing comprehensive solutions to the disabled
and underserved communities.

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 3

 SAMARTHANAM AT A GLANCE
Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled
founded in 1997, is an NGO working towards facilitating opportunities to enable persons with disabilities
and the underserved to keep pace with the rest of the society by
providing quality education, accommodation, nutritious food, vocational training and
placement based rehabilitation. It was established by Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar along with his
schoolmate and childhood friend, Late. Nagesh SP. The organization is affiliated to the World Blind
Union and is one of those few nonprofits to be awarded the Special United Nations Consultative Status
in 2015. Samarthanam is PAN-India with its 15 offices and burgeoning reach. It reaches out to
beneficiaries from diverse verticals through multiple divisions spread across India.

Samarthanam is the proud recipient of National Award for Child Welfare (2010) by Ministry of Women
& Child Development, Government of India, National Award for Child Welfare (2014) in the institution
category and National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (2017)

Vision Mission
An inclusive society free from discrimination To empower visually impaired, disabled and
where persons with disabilities become under-privileged people through developmental
contributing members, living with dignity and initiatives focusing on educational, social,
respect. economic, cultural and technological aspects.

HEALTH & NUTRITION

REHABILITATION
ARTS & CULTURE
ENVIRONMENT
EDUCATION

SKILLING

SPORTS

Samarthanam envisions to reach 100,000

persons with disabilities by the year 2020
4
 We learn with passion
and never forget what
we learn!

5
 Skilling
Centre
in
Samarthanam inaugurated a Skilling Centre in
Chennai Chennai, with support from Bank of America

Skilling

res ries
Centre

ent ibra
Another Skilling Centre, supported
by GKN Aerospace was launched in

L
in

at udio
Bangalore.
Bangalore

A
2c
e-
aill
Br
Resource Centre at Amway supported
Braille- Audio
Mumbai Libraries opened at
Chennai, Bangalore
Skilling Centres
A Resource Centre was launched
at Mumbai for Samarthanam
skilling and training.

CavinKare
Ability
Mahantesh GK honored with the
CavinKare Ability Award for Award
Eminence 2018

Skilling
Two Skilling Centres launched in Centres
Pune and Kochi

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 6

 India wins
5th ODI World Cup 2018
SAMARTHANAM
IN 2017
Receiver of
Indian Blind Cricket
team bring home Kempegowda
Mahantesh GK
the 5th ODI World honored with the Award
Cup trophy held in prestigious ‘Kempegowda
Dubai & Pakistan Award’ for his exceptional
service to the society.

Samarthanam
honored with National Award
for Empowerment of Persons
National
with Disabilities 2017 Award

Andhra Pradesh
State Award

Samarthanam received AP State

Award for Best Institution
working in the field of disability

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 7

 ESSENCE OF SAMARTHANAM
“I envisage to witness People with Disabilities contributing
to the economy as taxpayers rather than receiving dole
from the Government.” Mahantesh GK, Founder Managing
Trustee of Samarthanam.

A resolve to change the definition of people with disabilities led

to the conceptualizing of Samarthanam way back in 1997. What
started with an IT centre for the purpose of empowering the
persons with disabilities with technology aimed toward their
development and progress in the area of employment, spread
its wings to provide services across diverse sectors as well.
Samarthanam is all about one’s ability to defy the odds and
emerge as a successful individual living with dignity and respect
via self-sustenance and self-reliance. Today the organization
caters to 60,000 people from the disabled and underserved
fraternity across 15 cities in India with its seven initiatives and
multiple projects with modern technology being the focal
point.

To bring in a positive and a much-needed change in sensitizing

the society and to pave way for an inclusive backdrop,
Samarthanam has been efforting over the past 21 years. The
vision of the founding members was to build an inclusive
society free from discrimination where persons with disabilities
become contributing members, living with dignity and respect.
I want to
To empower the disabled fraternity were born initiatives
including Education, Skilling, Sports, Arts and Culture, witness People
Environment, Rehabilitation and Health and Nutrition, which with Disabilities
today serves as an umbrella organization to more than 60,000
people in need.
contribute to
the economy as
“Technology never discriminates,” says Mahantesh GK.
taxpayers...
The Founder Managing Trustee believes that Technology, unlike
the society, never discriminates against an individual based on
their physical and physiological limitations. All of
Samarthanam’s initiatives are multifaceted in nature. It
facilitates quality education through its inclusive school to
children filling their future with positivity and opportunities.
Skilling centres make the youth with disabilities job-ready and
sports vertical lays the platform for blind cricketers
through Cricket Association for the Blind in India.

8
 The Indian Cricket team has a tremendous job of garnering
recognition and fandom to Blind Cricket while scaling the
reach and inspiring many visually impaired youngsters who
are passionate about the game. Along with the continual feats
of CABI, the Cricketing arm is introducing Blind Cricket for
Women, recognizing the cricketing talents in young women
who are very competent and well-versed in the game.
Samarthanam’s advocacy of women empowerment is one
of the instances where Blind Cricket for women is now being
promoted at a National level with a tentative interstate
Women’s Blind Cricket tournament scheduled in the coming
years.

Swadhara, an epitome of self-sustenance and self-reliance

for women in distress is one of the rehabilitation initiatives
of Samarthanam providing an end-to-end solution for these
women from unfortunate circumstances. At the rehabilitation
centre, the women are provided with legal support,
counseling, accommodation facilities, on the job training or
Technology
other vocational courses to find their purpose in life.
never
discriminates... Samarthanam is limitless; offering hope, shelter, education,
livelihood, providing a better chance at life. Samarthanam is
the guiding beacon to many of the youth with disabilities who
have gained far more than independence. It encouraged many
brilliant minds to score distinction at the school level,
supported a young individual reach London for higher
education, trained young individuals overcome job fear,
nourished a talented cricketer receive the valuable Padma
Shree Award, stood by many women assuring a healthy
lifestyle and laid an international stage for artists with
disabilities. While they stand to be a few role models, there
are more talented people who have the will and
determination to outshine beyond physical limitations. On the
same road, Samarthanam envisions to reach 100,000 people
with disabilities by the year 2020 and it is positive of
accomplishing its interim mission.

Samarthanam is thankful to each and every individual,

organization, corporate, Government who believed in its
cause and willingly supported since 1997. We look forward to
the same unfaltering support towards vision 2020 and beyond.

9
 SAMARTHANAM REACH

samarthanam centres across 14 cities in India

» Bengaluru » Delhi
» Belagavi » Mumbai
» Dharwad » Hyderabad
» Bellary » Chennai
» Gadag » Kochi
» Anantapur » Pondicherry
» Guntur » Pune

offices in USA and UK

100+
corporate support

, 0 0 0 benefi ciary rea

60 isabled em ch 10,000
volunteer Base
1 7 2 d ploy
ee
s
om e n e mp
1 0 6 w loy
ee
s
462 loyees
E m p

ac
e nters ross In
C
7
di
14

Initiatives

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 10

 since inception...
11,737 kids educated
12,209 youth trained
25,000 visually impaired cricketers
2.6 lakh tonnes of dry waste processed
2951 women empowered
50 schools receive meals

Primary School ID School High School Higher educa��

131 100 81 425

Centers Trainees
13 2659

Corporates Dry waste

involved processed
100 83 tonnes

Wards covered Households covered

33 141723

Visually impaired players

25000

������ reach
Register����
ts
300

Benefi ciaries
105
from initiatives
2018
Meals served
7300

11
OUR WELL-WISHERS

Companies
Accel Partners India Pvt Ltd
Acc Sol Pvt Ltd - Accenture
Adobe Foundation
Akamai Technologies India Private Ltd
Allergan India Private Limited
ALUFIT INDIA PVT LTD
Anvin Technologies
ANZ
Bank Of America
Bigtree Entertainment Pvt Ltd
BMC Software
Brillio Technologies Private Limited
Crisil Limited
Commscope Networks India Private Limited
Deloitte Consulting India Pvt Ltd
Deshpande Foundation
Direct Aid Program
Exilant Technologies Pvt Ltd
EIT Services India Private Limited(DXI)
Fidelity Business Services India Private Limited
Flightraja Travels Pvt Ltd
GHZ INFOTEK
GKN Sinter Metals Pvt Ltd
Hitachi Data Systems India Private Limited
Intuit India Product Development Centre
Intel Securities Group
Induslnd Bank
Infosys Foundation
ITC Limited
Infinera India Private Limited
Jampana Construction Pvt Ltd
Janalaksmi Financial Service Limited
Lifestyle International Private Limited
Lowes Services India Pvt Ltd
Manhattan Associates(India) Development Centre Private Limited
Mediatek Bangalore Pvt Ltd

12
Menzies Bobba Ground Handling Services Pvt Ltd
Microsoft India Research And Private Ltd.
Nasscom Foundation
Niranjan Power Solutions Pvt Ltd
Nutanix Technologies
Northern Operating Services Pvt Ltd
NTT Data Information Processing Services Pvt Ltd
NVIDIA Graphics Pvt Ltd
Oracle
Otis Elevator Company (I) Ltd
Pole To Win India Pvt Ltd
Price Waterhouse Coopers Sdc Bangalore
Rashtriya Chemical And Fertilizer Ltd
Rem Conares Metal Supply Ltd Pvt
Salesforce Com India Pvt Ltd
Selco Foundation
SLK Global Solutions Pvt Ltd
Souti Computer Education Centre
Societe Generale Global Solution Centre Private Limited
Sonus Networks India Pvt Ltd Sales Force
Target Foundation
Tangoe India Softek Services Pvt Ltd
T E Connectivity Services India Pvt Ltd
Time Analytic & Shared Services Pvt. Ltd
Thomson Reuters India Private Limited
The Boston Consulting Group India Pvt Ltd
VMware Software India Pvt Ltd
Wells fargo
Western Digital Corporation
WS Atkins India Pvt Ltd
Yaskawa
Yokogawa India Ltd

Foundations
Charities Aid Foundation
Charities Aid Foundation America
Give India Foundation
UK Online Giving Foundation
The American Indian Foundation
United Way of Bengaluru
Government
Government of Karnataka
Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
Jilla Panchayath Govt. of Karnataka
Dept. of Welfare of Disabled & Senior
citizens Women and Child Development
Department.

13
 GOALS FOR THE COMING YEAR... 2018
Samarthanam Accessible Barrier Free Multipurpose Facility completion with
opening gates for 700 kids for their education and other initiatives of Samarthanam
Establishment of Five Skilling Centres across the country providing PwDs from every
region with skill development facility and employment opportunity
Digital Libraries to be increased by five in number and expand its reach to educational
institutions aiding PwDs to learn without any hindrance
Parisara to absorb more corporate and individual bodies to adopt recycling and encourage
people to follow green practices
Programmes and events to promote environmental causes and spread awareness among the
general public
Garner support for constructing a Stadium dedicated for sportspersons with disabilities
and blind cricket players
Samarthanam Bharath Cricket League based on the IPL model to provide visually
impaired cricketers a larger stage to showcase talent
Sunadha to train and encourage enthusiastic artists across the country with an improved
learning facility
Swadhara to continue supporting women in distress and pour complete efforts in helping
them reconcile
Vidyaprasad to expand the horizon and involve 10 more schools to serve free meals
Encouraging companies, institutions and other organizations in making their facility
accessible to PwDs
Increase corporate alliances through CSR and receive support for Samarthanam cause at
every level
Completing the making of Accessible building at JP Nagar and also start similar projects
at Mysore, Dharwad and Ananthapur
Samarthanam to establish its presence in Canada and Singapore
Reach out to 100,000 beneficiaries and achieve Vision 2020 a year in advance

14
 EDUCATION

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 15

School is the rightful place for children and supporting the study dreams of many little ones, Samarthanam
schools have been providing educational services to children across Karnataka. Samarthanam Primary school,
high school, school for intellectually disabled and higher education support are the various units which provide
education at different levels.
Along with education, sports, extra-curricular activities, excursions and cultural activities are equally encouraged.

PRIMARY SCHOOL 2009 Bangalore

The Barrier-free Residential School is close to completion and would open its gates in a few months. The
green building would house more than 700 students who would be able to reside, study and make use of its
other facilities. The key features of the building include complete accessibility to address needs of all
disabilities, ultramodern infrastructure with accessible assistive technology, smart classrooms, an auditorium with
meditation hall, yoga centre, gymnasium and therapy rooms. The building also comprises of RO water purifier,
solar water heating system and sewage treatment plant ensuring less stress on the environment.

Accessible Barrier-free School

School strength 131

New admissions 41

Moral classes to introduce basic etiquette

High preference towards activity based learning

Field trips for heightened exposure

Sports and cultural activities on a raise

Special Teacher training programmes

Corporate visits and increased volunteer engagement

16
SPECIAL SCHOOL 2015 Bangalore

FOR CHILDREN WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

School strength 100

New admissions 39

Modern infrastructure for special learning

Teacher-student ratio 1:7

Interaction with society through cultural

programmes, competitions, sports meets and field
visits

Special Olympics* introduced

Library programme

Workshops for employees of a few companies by

the special school teachers

Children’s Day Carnival conducted by Dream India at

Dean University

Interactive Sessions at ID School

AMBA Workshop Sessions

training programme for by Tata Communications on improving the
intellectually on preparation of communication level
challenged adults learning materials among children with
special needs

* Special Olympics Bharath, a National Sports Federation designated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports for Implementation of
scheme and Games for Persons with Intellectual Disability
17
HIGH SCHOOL 2004 Bangalore

School strength 81

Support and encourage disabled, under-

served and girl students

Various sports and cultural activities at District and

State level

Smart classes introduced for easy learning

Identified the inherent talent of students by organizing sports

and cultural activities for further encouragement

Science fairs, cluster level athletics and various other art

programmes participated

SSLC exam recorded

68% result

Of 28 students
19 cleared

4 students scored
above 80%

This year, recorded

2 distinctions

WAY FORWARD
Samarthanam schools look forward to encouraging many more children to study
and fulfill their dreams. As the new school takes shape, all school children would
be making use of the smart classrooms, science labs and the advanced
technology inbuilt in all the allied facilities, making way to a faster and better
learning process.

18
 HIGHER EDUCATION 1997 Bangalore

Programme expansion to Delhi Mumbai Hyderabad increasing reach by 200

425 students studying in 80 Institutes across 8 locations

north
bangalore mumbai hyderabad delhi
karnataka
125 99 74 27
100

The ultimate goal of the project is to provide higher education for the disabled to get better
employment opportunities which would, in turn, help them to lead a dignified life in the society.

Programmatic Highlights Role models in the making

• In Hyderabad, about 55 students were
enrolled into “Ibrahimpatan Degree College”
• Admissions Tracker, Academic Tracker, Dr. Suresh Doctorate in Marathi literature
Pandurang Raskar Mumbai University
Student Undertaking Form, Monthly
Higher Education reporting tracker created
Shakul Raj Sonker B.Sc Maths (Honours)
and implemented
(Visually Impaired student) Ashoka University, Delhi
• Associated with Bookshare and received
access to about 6 Lakh ebooks in 13 different
Deeksha Vasist M.Sc (Earth Sciences,
languages (Visually Impaired student) Applied Geophysics)
• Career counseling sessions for final year IIT, Mumbai
degree students
• Active participation in all the important Prachi Mahajan Urban Policy & Governance
events organized by Samarthanam and other (Visually Impaired student) TISS, Mumbai
NGOs’
Pragya Mahajan Master’s in social work &
WAY FORWARD (Visually Impaired student) public health
• Increase the number of enrolments in TISS, Mumbai
Karnataka
• Academic tracking of students Nikita Shukla LLB degree
• Online courses for students (Visually Impaired student) Government Law College,
• Career Counseling sessions Mumbai
• Personality Development Sessions
• Competitive Examination Coaching
19
 STORIES OF CHANGE

“A potential athlete in the

“Nourishing a dream to
making…”
teach to the young…”
Samarthanam believes
Jyothi is an
that 13-year old Eramma
orthopedically
has the ability to become
disabled orphan
a great sportsperson
abandoned by her
representing India and is eager
relatives. Now a ward
to support her to achieve the same.
of Samarthanam she is
Eramma is studying in standard VII of Primary
pursuing standard VII in the
School and hails from a lower-middle-class family
NGO’s Residential Primary
with a meager annual income. When school was
School. Her life has drastically changed
not an option to pursue her dreams, her parents
for the good with her arm operation
obliged and encouraged her to enroll at
supported by the nonprofit after which
Samarthanam. Her teachers are happy with not
she can write her owns notes without
just her academic performance but also with her
having to rely on her friends and
extra-curricular activities where she excels in
teachers. She aspires to be a teacher of
sports. In fact, she represents Samarthanam
educate children like self with the help
Primary School in inter-school sports meet and
of Samarthanam. The NGO will do all
has won many gold medals and trophies for her
its best to turn her dream into a reality.
school.

“Supporting an
aspiration to serve the
country...” “Kudos to this
Bhagyashree is a achiever… a future
visually impaired scientist”
beneficiary of Being
Samarthanam’s orthopedically
Higher Education disabled and
programme pursuing B.A. in Dharward. depending on a
She aspires to be an IAS officer. Hailing wheelchair or a pair
from a lower-middle-class family with of calipers did not stop
limited income her schooling was Suhas M Kyathanavara
tedious due to lack of financial support. from scoring 93% in his SSLC
This did not stop her and after the board exams.
NGO’s inter-vention, she is pursuing her Suhas has always been a bright
graduation without hassles and student and his science teacher
roadblocks. She participates in say that he is the first one to
extracurricular activities and likes to sing volunteer for assisting in the
in her pass-time. The organization is chemistry lab. A young
keen on seeing her through her journey scientist in the making, he
of turning her dream into a reality. aspires to be the same.

20
 LIVELIHOOD RESOURCE CENTRE

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 21

 SKILLING CENTRE
Skilling centres, spread across 13 cities of India, provide technical and sector based skill training to youth with
disabilities. The Skilling Centres are soaring with technology and equipped with accessible infrastructure to
support persons with disabilities. The training, food and accommodation is provided free of cost and post
training, the candidates are provided with placement and post placement support. Samarthanam has 13 Skilling
Centres running currently across India at major cities including Bangalore, Anantapur, Guntur, Delhi, Chennai,
Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Samarthanam launched 6 new Skilling centres this fiscal year in Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi,
Mumbai, Kochi and Pune

With the ultimate motive of empowering youth with disabilities, Samarthanam joined hands with Bank of
America and launched a centre in Chennai. Alongside, a skilling center took shape in Bangalore with the
support from GKN Aerospace. With the support of CITI Foundation, Skilling Centre in Mumbai was launched
and Pune centre was sponsored by RBL Bank.

13 2659 1729
centres enrolled placed

HIGHLIGHTS
• Jaws technology being used for training purpose and some centres use NVDA for
training of visually impaired students
• Social awareness events, mobilization camps and alliances made to highlight the
importance of skill development training for the disabled and underprivileged
• Boosting placements through organizing Mega Job Fairs and campus drives
• Motivation sessions by experienced professionals/ well placed beneficiaries to
instill confidence among the beneficiaries
• Playablo learning app was introduced where candidates are beginning to get a hold
on English language through games
•t Youth with disabilities access a range of training opportunities and acquire
:PVUI XJUI EJTBCJMJUJFT BDDFTT B SBOHF PG USBJOJOH PQQPSUVOJUJFT BOE BDRVJSF
marketable skills, decent work (waged employment or self-employment) and head
towards self sufficiency.
t 1MBDFNFOU PG DBOEJEBUFT JO NBKPS DPNQBOJFT BOE various domains like service
industry, banking, food industry etc.
t )JHI GPDVT PO women empowerment
t 7PMVOUFFST JOWPMWF BU MBSHF JOUSPEVDJOH MBUFTU UFDIOPMPHZ UP UIF USBJOFFT UISPVHI XPSLTIPQT
organized regularly

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 22

 2008
Bangalore

2009
Mobilization
Dharwad
Enrolments
Placements
Conducting Job fairs
Growth witnessed in

Participating firms
Training methodology
Technology usage 2011
Gadag
Maintaining sustainability
Belgaum
Infrastructure facilities Ballari
Alliances
Awareness events
Women trainees
Volunteer interest
2016
Ananthapur
Guntur

2017
Hyderabad
Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai

2018
Pune
Kochi

Touched
12209 lives
in 10 years

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 23

 progress and impact
• The individuals who have completed the training and enhanced
their abilities have become adept with their communication,
Computer, BPO and soft skills.
• Improvement in the performance of the students owing to the
technology upgrade and improved facilities.
• Samarthanam Ananthapur LRC was selected as “Best
Institution” under the category of working for the people with
disabilities by the Andhra Pradesh Government
• Supporting entrepreneurship interests through providing key
inputs on acquiring business loans and financial support.
• Disabled Rights Association has awarded Samarthanam, the best
NGO in supporting disabled people in Telangana.
• Samarthanam Hyderabad is the only organization working on
recording the academic audio books for students and many
colleges are showing interest in collaborating with the centre.
• Many students hail from rural background and lack exposure.
Bringing them onto the front row and encouraging through
quality training is accomplished at Samarthanam centres. A
distinct change is visible in the overall personality of the trainees,
post training completion.

way forward
Employment is a necessity for youth with disabilities and
Samarthanam, with the help of Corporate and Government, has
been efforting to mark a change in the statistics. Coming year,
Samarthanam wishes to increase its reach and improve on the
placement percentage by organizing job fairs and mobilization
camps and associating with more organizations/firms for campus
drives. Awareness camps to absorb more rural women for skilling
and making them independent would be in focus.
A new project is taking shape at Kodikonda Check post
(Ananthapur) and a proposal to start an old age home and LRC
has been initiated as well.

DDU-GKY Skill Program

bangalore centre
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya 60
Yojana (DDU-GKY) is the skilling and
placement initiative of the Ministry of Rural trained
Development (MoRD), Government of India. 165
Samarthanam is one of the Project
Implementing Agencies to implement this
dharwad centre
Skilling initiative and the first organization
in the country to take the initiative under the 105
DDU-GKY Scheme.

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 24

 STORIES OF CHANGE

“I did not lose hope…”

“Made every effort Disability cannot be a
to be a winner…!” barrier to achieving
A truly inspiring success and Rohit
story of Asif Ali is a standing
who gradually lost example. After
his eyesight is all completing graduation
about facing the tide and emerging a winner in he could not pursue
life. After 2nd Standard, Asif ’s eyesight started higher study due to domestic
to deteriorate and by the time he was in restraints and his visual problems. After
middle school, it had taken a toll on him. It facing denial at many interviews due to his
was initially challenging for young Asif. low computer knowledge, he did not lose
hope but went on looking for an opportunity.
After completing his Pre University “One phone call from Samarthanam changed
College, he still lacked confidence where my life..” says Rohit. The organization helped
communication was concerned. Things him obtain proficiency in learning computer
changed for good when he attended the and improving communication skills. Rohit
LRC counseling session. He was impressed procured a job at a trust and is now confident
with the course and he completed it in due in speaking English in public and can use
time and is now working for a Food and many computer applications with ease.
Beverages company and happy to be the
responsible contributor to his family.

“Beating all odds… “From an introvert

paving the way to success!” to an articulate Post
Born in a family of farmers, Graduate!”
Clara’s story is indicative of “He has transformed
what’s happening across the completely and I can
length and breadth of rural see that,” says the
India parents of Krishna, who
- underprivileged is currently pursuing post
women finding their footing and firmly graduation in Sydenham College,
moving on to create success for themselves. She Church-gate. Krishna Mazumdar is a
is the middle child among two sisters and visually impaired student who has been
completed her schooling from St. Joseph’s overprotected by his family and parents.
Higher Secondary School before pursuing When he joined Samarthanam, he was not
B.A. in English from St. Joseph’s College at ready to mingle with fellow students and
Pondicherry. After graduation, she had dreams was not socially integrated. In due course of
of having a good career. But her lingual skills time, a transformation had begun and he
held her back from fulfilling her dreams. started focusing on his computer skills. He
Though she had previous work experience, she appeared for a common entrance test for
faced many obstacles in finding a fruitful job. MBA and successfully cleared it and got
Samarthanam introduced her to skilling placed in Sydenham College, Churchgate.
sessions to move ahead and upgrade to the He is content with his performance and
market standards. She procured a Job at an looks forward to finding a good job and
educational center and stands as a true support his family.
inspiration to many more women.
25
 DIGITAL LIBRARY
Samarthanam Digital Book Libraries are aimed at making education accessible for the print-disabled including
visually impaired, dyslexic children and those with verbal processing difficulties. The prime focus of Digital
Book Library is on providing practical support to school and college students, making course material and
books available in formats supported by screen reader software. The initiative, digital library, is the first of its
kind to be set up and operational in India.
Currently, there are six Digital Book Libraries established across major cities of India helping the visually
impaired and young adults easily access a plethora of books without any hassle.

Samarthanam Digital Library

BANGALORE HYDERABAD GUNTUR KOCHI PONDICHERRY CHENNAI

4000
Audiobooks
(Hindi, English, and Kannada)

3000
Braille Books and Magazines

7000+
Ink Books

3000+
Books from Primary School Library

400+
PDF Books

200+
Scanned Books

26
 ENVIRONMENT

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 27

 PARISARA 2004 Bangalore

Samarthanam’s Parisara is a dry waste management programme which provides sustainable dry
waste management services to various corporate, industrial companies, institutions, apartments
and communities. It has come up as a reliable and sustainable waste management service provider.
The objective is to create a waste-free environment and to constantly work on environment-
friendly, cost-effective, innovative and sustainable technologies for common man’s usage. This
program also helps in empowering the disabled by providing employment opportunities.

Programmes organized to Promoted Source Segregation

promote Parisara and their services across all wards

Awareness campaigns on Recycled products

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3Rs) usage promoted

Walkathon 2017
A walk organized to raise awareness on environment conservation
which gathered more than 10,000 people from Bangalore

Providing services to Collaborated with

90 companies 19 companies

53 tonnes 30 tonnes
of paper waste of metal and wood
collected waste collected

Dry waste of

83 tonnes processed

WAY FORWARD
The year ahead Parisara is aiming to establish more satellite godowns zone wise or ward
wise enabling faster collection, processing and also increase employment opportunities for
people with disabilities.

28
WELL BEING OUT OF WASTE 2015 Bangalore

(ITC-WOW) SAMARTHANAM

17696 tonnes 141723 33 wards

of waste households covered for waste
collected propagated collection

Collected low-value plastic of PWDs employed are Upgrading the lives of

1250 tonnes 8 in the project 1658 ragpickers

WOW is a recycling programme, initiated by the Paperboards and Specialty Papers Business of ITC. It is a
corporate level program where the focus is on ensuring proper segregation and recycling of waste to
protect the environment, ensure a clean and hygienic neighborhood and create a sustainable livelihood for
the participants involved in the waste management process. In association with Samarthanam Trust, ITC
executes various programmes under WOW with the help of BBMP.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Awareness programmes, training sessions, jatha, waste segregation promoting events and
environment conservation projects have been organized
• Swachchta hi seva, a walk organized to raise awareness on clean and litter-free environment
• Increased promotion of the usage of environment-friendly products
• Distribution of bags for waste segregation
• An upgrade in the working routine of pourakarmikas
• Increased employment opportunities for the disabled people
• Amplified dry waste collection in the DWCC
• Increased awareness on composting

29
 At Societe Generale, diversity and inclusion is a key priority and is integrated into our
MESSAGE FROM CORPORATE

organisation’s mission. It is a commitment that we want to incorporate at all levels,

including our CSR programs. In line with this, we have partnered with Samarthanam to
support and promote livelihood of women with disabilities through a structured training
program in Chennai. Since its inception, we have seen remarkable progress in the economic
and social conditions of these women. We are also extremely happy to see a transformation
in our employee volunteers associated with this program. Our aim is to see this partnership
grow and continue to impact many more lives in the near future.

Sunil Shah,
Deputy CEO,
Societe Gener ale Gl obal Sol ution Center
(SG GSC).

30
SPORTS

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 31

Cricket Association for Blind in India (CABI), the cricketing arm of Samarthanam, is the apex body
organizing and conducting cricket for blind in India and is affiliated to World Blind Cricket Ltd (WBC). CABI
has been organizing cricket tours and tournaments since 2010 and working on blind cricket awareness. CABI
organizes tournaments at District, State, Zonal and National levels. CABI takes great pride in Indian Blind
Cricket team who have lead the country to victory in many World Championships of Blind Cricket including
the first and second T20 World Cup in 2012 and 2017, 4th ODI World Championship in 2014, Asia Cup in
2016 and 5th ODI World Championship in 2018.

5th ODI WORLD CUP CRICKET FOR THE BLIND 2018

Indian Blind Cricket team has won the 5th ODI World Cup Blind Cricket Championship 2018 held in Dubai and
Pakistan from 7 to 20 January 2018.

6 countries
102 players
18 matches
7 venues
10 days
The final match between India and Pakistan
5000 spectators for the finale took place in UAE
India scored 308/7 beating Pakistan

The making of the 17-player Indian Team for World Cup

National Yoga, meditation, breathing

4 zonals 8 day
tournament and concentration
played 17 players
played coaching improving techniques and
among selected
among 8 camp regular cricket practice
21 teams sessions in coaching camp
teams

32
Indian Blind Cricket team
felicitations post 5th odi world cup

Hon. President of India Hon. Vice President of India

Shri Ram Nath Kovind Shri Venkaiah Naidu

Hon. Home Minister Hon. Ministry of Women Welfare, Family Welfare,

Shri Rajnath Singh Maternity and Child Welfare, Smt Swati Singh

Hon. Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment

Shri Thawar Chand Gehlot HE Vipul, Indian Consulate General UAE

APPRECIATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

33
 Other Events and Achievements
East Zone School Cricket Tournament
The East Zone School level Cricket Tournament for the visually impaired was organized at Bhuvaneshwar
by Cricket Association for the Visually Impaired, Odisha in association with CABI- Cricket Association for
the Blind in India. 8 teams from various Blind Schools of the East Zone took part in the tournament.

West Zone School Cricket Tournament

Allergan West Zone School level Cricket Tournament for Visually Impaired was organized at Bhopal by
Cricket Association for the visually Impaired, Madhya Pradesh in association with CABI- Cricket
Association for the Blind. 6 teams from Madhya Pradesh, 3 teams from Rajasthan, 1 team from
Chhattisgarh, 1 team from Maharashtra participated in the tournament.

IndusInd Bank Blind Cricket Conclave

Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Samarthanam Trust in association with IndusInd
Bank organized Blind Cricket Conclave at New Delhi to recall the blind cricket achievements, success
stories and discuss the future of blind cricket with ways to widen its reach. IndusInd Blind Cricket conclave
had corporate, sponsors, aspiring cricketers, Government bodies and renowned sportspersons gathered
together to witness the current scenario of blind cricket and explore collaboration opportunities. More
than 150 representatives from various organizations participated in the interactive Conclave, including 80
cricketers from across India.

• Various cricket matches played with corporate teams and volunteers

• Samarthanam sports academy inauguration
• A two-day Annual Sports meet for students and staff with over 50 events organized
• In the District games at BBMP Ground, Koramangala, 50 medals were won and 23 students were
selected for State level, in which the 23 participants received 38 medals.
• The 1st National Sports Climbing Competition for Visually Challenged persons approved by
India Mountaineering Foundation and organized by Mountaineering Association of J&K,
witnessed the participation of 12 candidates from Samarthanam.

WAY FORWARD
• National and International cricket tournaments
• Drafting on a State Level Women’s cricket league
• Zonal and National Level School Tournaments for school
children
• Zonal and National Level Youth Tournaments
• Cricket awareness programme across 100 schools
• Skilling programme for young Cricketers
34
 STORIES OF CHANGE

“A childhood dream “An ardent cricket

to be a player...” follower and a
Sunil is a blind brilliant player!”
cricket player who After completing his
lost his vision in an M.A in Sociology the
accident at the age only thing that was on
of 4. But limitations are the mind of Sonu
only for people who are not passionate, Golkar was cricket. He had
says Sunil. He wanted to be a part of blind come across blind cricket during his
cricket right from his school days when he school days when his seniors
heard his seniors play. After his first State introduced the game to him. Sonu
tournament, there was no stopping him. lost his eyesight in an unfortunate
His immense enthusiasm in blind cricket operation failure but he had the
made him a part of the Asia Cup vision to achieve greater things in life.
Tournament played in 2016. Sunil is a 6 He is an energetic sports player who
times ‘Man of the Series’ winner as part of had his first international experience
State Tournaments, Zonals and Nationals in 2015. With his motivators by his
played by him. He still continues playing side, Sonu says that cricket has been
for the Indian team and stands as a role his all-time passion.
model to many young players.

“A born player...” “Cricket was my only

say all his colleagues dream....”
who have cheered for says Anil who had
Prakash’s success on lost his eyesight at
all platforms. Prakash the age of three in an
Jayaramaiah completed accident. He is an
his SSLC before choosing athlete who won many
cricket as a career. He always medals and is a cricket
wanted to be a part of blind player as well. He was first introduced
cricket on a bigger stage. Prakash had lost to blind cricket when at school looking
his vision in a fateful accident when he was at his seniors play the game. Later he
8 months old. But he never found being got a chance to play his first tournament
visually impaired as a limitation. He is a 40 from school in 1999 in a District
times ‘Man of the Series’ winner from the Tournament. Anil played his first
many State Tournaments, Zonals and international tournament that is the
Nationals participated and that indicates Asia Cup in 2016. He received many
that passion does not count hurdles. He is ‘Man of the Match’ titles and once
the vice-captain of Indian Blind Cricket received ‘Man of the Series’ award.
team and a true inspiration. Anil’s biggest inspiration to pursue
blind cricket is his sports teacher who
motivated him towards playing cricket.

35
 I take great pride in our association with Samarthanam Trust. Since 2016 we have
MESSAGE FROM CORPORATE associated to create opportunities for the empowerment of people with
disabilities, the environment and the underserved, hence making happier
communities.

2017 marked an incredibly active year for Allergan and Samarthanam. I would like
to highlight following initiatives of Samarthanam Trust that we partnered with:

Cricket for the Blind: Our association with Samarthanam, the driving force behind
CABI has been a great and exciting journey. In 2017, we actively supported the
identification of cricketing talent, training and coaching for the visually impaired in
cricket at the school level, zonal level and national level. The overarching
accomplishment of these coaching camps is remarkable. It gives me and everyone
at Allergan great happiness and pride to celebrate the victory of Team India in the
2018 Blind Cricket World Cup held at Sharjah, UAE earlier this year. This is a true
promise of creating a confident community. It was a heart-warming and rewarding
experience to be part of this initiative.

13th Bengaluru Walkathon: We were extremely excited to partner with

Samarthanam’s“Green Vision Clear Mission”, 13th Bengaluru Walkathon 2017, as
a clean environment is the basic need for all living entities. Our employees and
business partners actively participated in this walkathon. It was wonderful to see
thousands of people including school children participating.

To further manifest the above mission, Allergan also supported Samarthanam in

establishing a sewage and water treatment plant at their new facility, as well as,
initiatives for green energy by way of setting up solar panels for electrical
requirements.

As you read this report, I hope you will gain insight into the breadth and depth of
Samarthanam’s activities. I am grateful to the contributions and efforts of our
dedicated staff, who put in their energies towards the success of our social
initiatives. Thank you and I look forward to our future initiatives together.

Thanking You

Sridhar Rangana than,

Mana ging Dire ctor,
Aller gan India .

36
ARTS & CULTURE

37
 SUNADHA 1999 Bangalore

Samarthanam looks out for artistic talent among people with disabilities, imparts training to perfect their
skills and provides a stage to showcase the talent. “Sunadha” involves a group of artists who perform on
various State, National and International platforms. The troupe includes people with disabilities who excel in
classical and folk dance forms, garnering applaud and appreciation.

This year Sunadha artists have displayed their mettle through performances across many stages and proved
beyond any doubt that talent has no frontiers. Through Sunadha programmes, we could also establish an
amicable relationship with benevolent sponsors and also inculcate social awareness amongst the audience.

New training methods

300 adopted
registered
artists with
Encouraged and supported
disabilities the new artists

Dance, singing and musical

instruments facilitated

Regional &
Dedicated facility for un-
National
interrupted practice
performances

Training students of primary,

high and ID school

Sunadha provides Identified exceptional talent

hostel across North Karnataka
education
training Provided music training and
food support
health checkup

‘Disability is not an obstacle to pursue one’s dreams and passions..’

Nivedhita Radhakrishnan is a true example of this. She started learning Bharatanatyam
when she was six-years-old and since then dance transpired to be her passion. Having lost
her eyesight in an accident, Nivedhita never gave up on her dream of dance. She
completed her M. Phil in English literature and is currently pursuing Ph.D. in the same
alongside dance with her association with Sunadha. To perceive her dream of dance she
came to Bangalore and believes that with the support of Samarthanam’s Sunadha she is
nearing her life’s goal. She is learning music from Ashok, a visually impaired singer of the
troupe. As one of the new members of Sunadha, she is looking forward to performing
with her team at international stage shows and events.
Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 38
 Noteworthy Performances

Master Dancer EPIC ((Encouraging

(Dance reality Potential In Community)
Crystal ball WIPRO Awareness
show) on Colors event performance and
showcase (JDA Program
Super television ‘The most inspiring
software)
channel dancer’ award

State HR
conference by
World Disabled
Ugadi Utsava Bangalore University
Day performance
and Social work
Department

WAY FORWARD
Sunadha aims to accommodate more artists and support talent across the country. The team would be
organizing workshops mainly focusing on dance, music and drama all over Karnataka and also create National
and International platforms to promote the artists worldwide.

“Nourishing an aspiration to make it big in classical dance…!”

Speech and hearing impaired Sri Devi was a beneficiary of Samarthanam’s Higher
Education Program where they encouraged her dance as she was a quick learner.
After completing her XII standard, she became a full-time member of team
Sunadha wherein she has presented cultural dance programs in the USA and the
UK. Though from a middle-class family, her parents support her dance and are
proud of her achievements. She wants to make it big in classical dance and wants to
participate in reality shows. She considers Sunadha to be her second family and is
grateful to Samarthanam for having introduced her to her dreams.

39
 We love to study...
We look forward to
achieving our goals!

40
 REHABILITATION

Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018 41

SWADHARA GRUH 2007 Bangalore

Samarthanam provides shelter for women in distress under the project “Swadhara” established in 2007 with
support from Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. Swadhara provides food,
shelter, vocational training, counseling and suitable placement opportunities for women and people with
disabilities. Currently, the project is providing assistance to women between the age of 18 years and 45
years, hailing from different parts of Karnataka including widows, women with disabilities, economically
backward and who witnessed abuse and trauma. Swadhara supports for their re-establishment in the
society.

Swadhara has been the home for many destitute women and children, resolving their problems and offering
counseling services. Currently, 80 women and 25 children seek the assistance of Swadhara to re-transform
their lives and stand up for themselves. Apart from food, accommodation and moral support, the women
residents are provided with special training based on their capabilities and encouraged to take up suitable
employment.

80 25 384 2951
women children beneficiaries beneficiaries

Current beneficiary count Year 2017-18 Since

inception

Supporting women and children at

Swadhara
Awareness camps to spread the word about Swadhara services.
Doctor visits and health checkups for complete care.
Meetings with committee members regularly to discuss about the progress and future
plans for the resident's welfare.
Visits by state and central Government officials.
Workshops on various women and children concerned
issues.
Employment opportunities for women after training them.
Group activities to help the beneficiaries identify inherent talent.
Emotional and moral support for women in despair.
Counseling sessions to improve confidence.

42
 Special Counseling
Training for services to
36 63
residents residents

127
28 26 recreational
women women activities
employed reconciled to women,
children

Retail Training 03 BPO Training 18

Special Catering 05 Computer Training 17
Training
to Housekeeping 20 Recycled product making 28
Residents
Cooking 16 Counseling 42

WAY FORWARD
Swadhara would wish to expand and reach out to more women in need,
empower them and make them self-sufficient at every level. The team is
striving to associate with other organizations and institutes who can come
forward and offer assistance when needed. Also, more experienced
personnel would be consulted to help the residents by offering
expert guidance to resolve their problems. Advanced training
and further employment opportunities are being
explored along with quality educational support to the
children residing at Swadhara.

43
Samarthanam Annual Report 2017-2018
 STORIES OF CHANGE

“I can do it...” has “Supporting to self-sustain

been the attitude of and gain independence..”
Kumari since day Destiny can transform
one. But how any person. Rajalakshmi
domestic disturbances is one example who has
can change a person is witnessed drastic
appalling to witness. personality change from a
Kumari is a 32-year-old woman with three reticent person to an independent
girl children. After going through a lot of woman. She has four-girl-children which
turbulence at home, she finally decided to led to drastic domestic issues and later
approach women welfare organizations being abandoned by family. Since she did
which led to Samarthanam Swadhara. not have minimal education Rajalakshmi
Kumari was in a bad shape in the first faced hurdles in gaining employment as
counseling session at Swadhara but today well. At Samarthanam Swadhara she chose
she is trained in recycled product making to be trained in housekeeping and today
and taking care of her three children Rajalakshmi is not willing to be the
without any hassle. Her children study at submissive woman she once was. Her
Samarthanam school and she wishes to children study at Samarthanam school and
make them independent individuals. she is independent enough to self-sustain
her family.

“A young artist and a “Being the

fighter!” independent woman..”
That is Geetha, a 23- Kalpana is a 29-year-
year-old woman with a old well-educated
15-day-old baby who woman who had fallen
has a resolve to stand into a bad marriage
strong despite many and the later
hurdles. Being married at repercussions further depressed
a very young age Geeta had her. She had to endure physical and
to fight domestic harassment and injustice. emotional stress at home and from
Without any support from family, Geeta relatives. Being abandoned by family
approached Samarthanam Swadhara to Kalpana approached Samarthanam
begin a new life, when she was pregnant. seeking shelter, counseling and
“I love to make crafts and sculptures,” says improving her software skills. Being
Geeta who wishes to learn the same. Her well versed with computers she could
talent was nourished at Swadhara and easily land a job in a reputed software
today she is the receiver of many District firm and is now leading an
and State level awards appreciating the independent life.
artist in Geeta.

44
Working Women's Hostel

Samarthanam established a working womens hostel in Prashant Nagar, Bengaluru in 2013 to

provide a secure residential facility under vigilant supervision and hygienic nutritious food to
working women with disabilities, employed with various organizations in Karnataka. The initiative
supports disabled working women and girl students going to pursue higher education.

60 residents
SIX residents received promotion at workplace
ONE beneficiary started working in a reputed Nationalized Bank
Motivational sessions monthly once
Health and fitness sessions

All the residing students cleared their final exams

Active participation by all students in events

Appreciation received by working women with

disabilities from employers

Imparting skills in youth from the rural areas

Leaving behind inhibitions, students opting to

compete in any competition

Rise in incoming residents and

expansion of the facility

“I aim only to be on top…!” says Mala S, a visually challenged individual

who completed her PUC and enrolled in a Degree college for
Graduation in BA. Apart from being sharp in studies, Mala is a sports
enthusiast who won many medals in athletics. The biggest achievement
to list is her participating in the National level wall climbing event at
Jammu & Kashmir. She wishes to pursue her interest in sports after
completing her Graduation with a high score.

45
HEALTH AND NUTRITION

46
 7300
Improved beneficiaries
literacy level across

Controlled 51
dropouts schools

1540000 Increased
hygienic hot meals participation
supplied

9
Corporate
cooking Quality food supply
activities from events

Successfully completed 15-years of service

Vidyaprasad,
supported by the Government of India and Government of Karnataka,
provides healthy nutritious food to the students from Government schools in
and around Bengaluru. The food is prepared in a centralized, automated
kitchen and is supplied to all the public schools through customized vehicles.

Vidyaprasad supports the hostels in HSR Layout and Hulimavu. It has been 15
years since Vidyaprasad was started and it has efficiently been taking care of all
the food requirements of Samarthanam events.

47
Management Discussion and Analysis
An Overview
Samarthanam aims to reach out to 100,000 persons with
disabilities by 2020 and this year the organization moved
closer to its goal. The barrier-free residential school, majorly
supporting the educational needs of children is very close to
opening its gates to an inclusive education system. Built on
smart technology and being a green building the school is
going to provide free education to over 700 children with
disabilities and low economic background.

Samarthanam strengthened its CSR alliances by associating

with more corporate entities and spreading its reach.
Supported by a strong Fundraising team moving to new
geographies has been accomplished with a widened network
of people and organizations who have willingly supported
and encouraged the initiative. Moving forward,
Samarthanam aims to expand its horizons and establish
more centres to reach out to those people are in need of the
services.

The Indian Blind Cricket achievements' list is expanding

and this year it added the 5th ODI World Cup trophy to its
successful portfolio. To improve on its reach further various
proposals are in line and we look forward to accomplishing
them very soon. Samarthanam’s efforts to offer the best
services are appreciated largely with awards including the
National Award and CavinKare Ability Award. We greatly
honor the recognition and consider awards as indicators of
the work going in the right direction.

With a strong operational model, unfaltering support from

Government, generous donors, supporters, stakeholders and
CSR network, we move on to contribute to the society in the
best possible way!

48
Our operational model

information technology
human resources

communications

infrastructure
transportation
volunteering
fundraising

Samarthanam is spread across the country with its 15 centres and 462
employees who are categorized into various units based on their
qualification and experience. To run an organization as mammoth and
eventful as Samarthanam the pillars of the organization need to be
sturdy and those pillars are supported by its employees.

Samarthanam runs its operations with the help of a proficient team

working from various verticals who consistently effort for the well
being of Samarthanam beneficiaries. Professionals in their respective
fields design programmes and projects which are sustainable and
beneficial at various levels. The team members join forces for a
hassle-free operation and administration of the organization and walk
towards vision 2020. Each vertical dedicate their knowledge and
expertise in improving and streamlining the workflow for a
heightened outcome. Samarthanam appreciates the hard work and
coordination displayed by its employees and encourages them at
every fold.

Each unit understands the mission of empowering the visually

impaired, disabled and underprivileged people and conceptualizes
ideas to drive the organization towards the mission.

49
Human resources
Samarthanam human resources guarantee the uninterrupted growth and execution of various programmes,
projects and events. Samarthanam believes that discrimination kills talent and gives an opportunity to
every individual analyzing their abilities. The total headcount in the year 2017-18 is 462 employees of
which 172 are women and persons with disability are 104.

Staff with disabilities

Visually impaired 57

Physical disability 45

Speech and Hearing impaired 2

This year the team introduced a ‘Core competency model’ for staff learning and development. Alongside,
the process of dry waste segregation has begun and is being implemented by the housekeeping team.
Apart from monitoring of regular services, health camps, fitness programmes, staff capacity building
workshops and other employee engagement activities are effectively carried out.

Staff classification according to employment status

GENDER FULL-TIME PAID

CONSULTANTS
Male 290 20

Female 172 10

Total 462 30

Fundraising
Samarthanam has seen a very healthy growth rate CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate of 49% from
2008-09. And compared to last year, a growth rate of more than 60% is recorded.

Fundraising team ensures the significant flow of funds into each project and supports the beneficiaries in
need. Apart from the consistent support provided by the CSR, the financial support received from
individual donors is highly valued. As Samarthanam is expanding into various cities, the corporate
partnerships are also seeing a rise with increased project sustainability. Currently, Samarthanam is
associated with over 100 corporate companies under CSR who believe in Samarthanam's cause and
contribute their valuable time and money.

Funds received

Individuals 17.2%
Corporate – CSR 69.7%
Government Agencies- State/Central 6.3%
Cricket 5.5%
Others 1.1%

50
Categorization of staff according to salary

SLAB OF GROSS SALARY PLUS MALE FEMALE TOTAL

BENEFITS (RS. PER MONTH)

Up to 5000 1 3 4

5000-10000 79 59 138
10000-25000 164 93 257
25000-50000 32 15 47
50000-100000 11 1 12
100000 above 3 1 4
Total 290 172 462

CSR split- Project wise

PROJECTS PERCENT
Skilling 30%
Building cons���� 14.8%
Environment 21.2%
Educa�� 15.4%
Cricket 11.3%
General 6%
Digital Library 1.3%
Grand Total 100%

51
Volunteering
Samarthanam has worked and engaged volunteers from all walks of life. To cater to the large number of
volunteers from the corporate, educational institutions as well as individuals, Samarthanam has dedicated
staff working round the clock throughout the year. To have a more structured approach and accommodate
volunteers based on skill and passion with the opportunities that existed, a customized calendar is prepared
for the corporate every quarter. This year (2017 – 18) Samarthanam saw close to 60 corporate, volunteering
with Samarthanam and 120 plus students completing their internship. From the corporate more than 3000
volunteers contributed approximately 11,076 of their working hours. More than 120 students from various
colleges in and outside of Karnataka completed their social internships at Samarthanam thereby
contributing close to 12,100 hours of service. Close to 234 individual volunteer applications have been
received through the website as well.

During the last year, the major event was the 13th Annual Walkathon in which close to 300 volunteers
participated and contributed approx. 2,400 hours of service.

Volunteering at Samarthanam has had its diverse impacts on all its verticals. The corporate has recognized
Samarthanam to be an apt organization for volunteering because of the diversity in the programmes.
Educational social internship programes saw a diverse blend of students coming into the organization and
contributing to the cause in their own efficient manner.

Samarthanam received the award for “Corporate Volunteer Engagement Champion” at Corporate
Volunteering Conclave, 2018 organized by Youth for Seva.

3000 volunteers
from

60 corporate
contributed

12076 hours
of their time

120 interns
contributed

12100 hours
of service

Corporate Volunteer Engagement Champion

52
 Adobe Genpact Northern Trust
Allegis Group GKN Aerospace Oracle
Corporate involved in volunteering through CSR

Akamai Technologies Great West Global Solutions Polaris India Pvt Ltd
Amazon India Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Radio Indigo
Analytics Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS) Western Digital
ANZ Ian Martin Consulting Pvt Ltd SAP
Atkins Intel SLK
AT&T Johnson & Johnson Societe Generale
BMC Software Kloh Standard Chartered Bank
Brillio Krypt India Private Ltd Sutherland Global Services
Cisco Systems Lenovo Target Corporation India
Citi Bank Linkedin Limited
CommScope Network India L’Oreal India Tata Communications Thermo
Datamatics Lowe’s India Fisher Scientific Thomson
Dell Manhattan Associates India Reuters
Epsilon Development Center Uber
Fintellix Micro Focus VMware
Flipkart Moody’s Wells Fargo
Gainsight Morgan Stanley

Christ University
Colleges involved in internship programmes & volunteering 2017-18

SP Jain Institute of Management and

Research -Mumbai
Lovely Professional University Oxford
College of Arts and Commerce Collaboration with online volunteering platforms
Nirma University- Ahmedabad IFIM
Law College Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Social Awareness visits by Institutions

Sastra University- Thanjavur IIM- Bangalore

St Joseph College- Kannur WBNJUS- Banjara Academy
Kolkata University of Buffalo, USA Goodera
Mount Carmel College Common Purpose ConnectFor
St. Aloysius College Christ Academy Taproot Plus
IGNOU Prerna Academy Chezuba
St. Francis de Sales College Bangalore Public School Letstagon
Banjara Academy NIFT- Bangalore iVolunteer
SDMIMD- Mysore Acharya College
St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science Greenwood High International School
O P Jindal Global University Iowa University, USA
Jyoti Nivas College University of Zurich, Switzerland
National Public School
BMS College
ISBR Business School
Symbiosis Law College-Pune
NMIMS University-Bangalore
St John of God-Kottayam.

53
Communications
Samarthanam communications connect every corner of Samarthanam for streamlining the daily workflow
and effective implementation of programmes. Media and communications team have supported the
organization in expanding its reach, raise awareness and convey information across various sectors via online
and offline modes. Samarthanam website is taking a new shape with improved accessibility, navigation, and
understandability.

Each event or programme organized by Samarthanam has been cautiously drafted, laid out and executed by
the team by providing the requisite branding, offline and online marketing and print collaterals. Apart from
the regular online and offline publications in the form of Newsletters and Annual Reports, brochures and
artwork required by various personnel from Samarthanam were designed and conceptualized by
Communications team. Renewed digital marketing strategies were employed to increase the online presence
and make a mark on social media platforms. Accordingly, the web statistics describe the rising reach and
increase in overall growth.

Information technology
Information technology team strongly holds the foundation of Samarthanam as the organization greatly
supports technology application at every possible curve. As the organization expanded into new regions with
new training centres, the team supported their establishment and hassle-free running of the centre. Taking
into account the DDU-GKY model, all the centers are introduced or upgraded with complete CCTV
surveillance and biometric attendance system. Also, NAS storage (Network storage system) for the easy
access of the data files was introduced. On the other hand, Samarthanam’s new accessible school consists of
Smart classes and IT team introduced newer learning experiences to the students. The IT department has
also started to use and develop new tools like Goonjan, HRMS and a couple of others in order to benefit
employees in sharing the correct data. Taking Samarthanam a notch up was the drafting of Samarthanam
mobile app, on Android and iOS versions.

Transportation
The transport system at Samarthanam is well connected and equipped to handle the needs of the
commuters with disabilities moving across schools, training centres and other places of visit. The team also
supports moving of meals for the midday meal programme and handles the process efficiently. A hassle free
transportation is provided for moving across various regions where Samarthanam is spread out.

Infrastructure
The Samarthanam barrier-free residential school is about to open its gates to school for more than 700
children with disabilities and those from lower economic backgrounds. The facility is completely accessible,
addressing all needs of the persons with disabilities with an ultra modern infrastructure. An RO water plant
has been set up along with sewage treatment plant, Gym and Fitness Center, multipurpose hall, auditorium
and a modernized kitchen. On the other hand, two new infrastructures have been initiated in JP Nagar and
Dharwad.

54
 Creativity is our second
name...
Learning the first!

55
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS

56
 Finance and Accounts

AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2018

2017-18 2016-2017
RECEIPTS Amount % age Amount % age
Opening Balance 867.87 22.70% 500.59 12.72%
Earned/Self generated income 45.43 1.19% 25.41 0.65%
Donations from Indian Sources 1801.6 47.13% 1821.75 46.28%
Grants from Indian Sources 169.1 4.42% 288.82 7.34%
Donations from International Sources 449.51 11.76% 944.37 23.99%
Grants from International Sources 0 0.00% 0 0.00%
Loans 92.89 2.43% 238.19 6.05%
Other Receipts 396.39 10.37% 117.03 0.03
Total 3822.79 100% 3936.16 100.00%

2017-18 2016-2017
PAYMENTS Amount % age Amount % age
Capital items/assets purchased for the
549.42 14.37% 552.14 14.03%
Organisation
Salaries, benefits, Consultants Fees,
998.51 26.12% 1002.24 25.46%
Funding etc.
Staff Travel 36.76 0.96% 64.64 1.64%
Office Support 88.13 2.31% 59.78 1.52%
Programme 1055.82 27.62% 810.17 20.58%
Other Payments 159.76 4.18% 307.02 7.80%
Deposits & Advances 185.85 4.86% 272.3 6.92%
Closing Cash and Bank Balance 748.69 19.58% 867.87 22.05%
Total 3822.94 100.00% 3936.16 100.00%

*Rs in Lakhs

57
 AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2018

2017-18 2016-2017
INCOME Amount % age Amount % age
Earned/Sell generated income 42.42 1.57% 36.92 1.26%
Donations from Indian Sources 1415.73 52.47% 1674.09 57.19%
Grants from Indian Sources 230.4 8.54% 322.82 11.03%
Donations from International Sources 727.79 26.97% 611.97 20.91%
Grants from International Sources 0 0.00% 0 0.00%
Other Income 281.92 10.45% 281.21 9.61%
Total 2698.26 100.00% 2927.01 100.00%

2017-18 2016-2017
EXPENDITURE Amount % age Amount % age
Salaries, Benefits, Consultants Fees,-
998.51 37.01% 1002.24 34.24%
Funding etc.
Staff Travel 36.76 1.36% 64.64 2.21%
Office Support 74.92 2.78% 59.78 2.04%
Programme 1,055.40 39.11% 810.17 27.68%
Other Expenses 15.71 0.58% 113.18 3.87%
Total Expenditure 2,181.30 80.84% 2050.01 70.04%
Depreciation 108.30 4.01% 64.9 2.22%
Excess of Income over expenditure 408.66 15.15% 812.1 27.75%
Total 2,698.26 100.00% 2,927.01 100.00%

*Rs in Lakhs

58
 AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2018

2017-18 2016-2017
ASSETS Amount % age Amount % age
Fixed Assets 1858.76 59.98% 1417.64 47.95%
Deposits & Advances 328.44 10.60% 566.08 19.15%
Receivables 162.95 5.26% 105.19 3.56%
Cash and Bank Balances 748.69 24.16% 867.88 29.35%
Total 3098.84 100.00% 2956.79 100.00%

2017-18 2016-2017
LIABILITIES Amount % age Amount % age

General Fund (unrestricted fund) 928.08 29.95% 397.77 13.45%

Corpus and endowment fund(s) 22.47 0.73% 19.6 0.66%

Building Fund 576.31 18.60% 573.42 19.39%
Advance Grants 787.65 25.42% 691.24 23.38%
Payables 338.54 10.92% 425.52 14.39%
Reserve Fund 37.14 1.20% 37.14 1.26%
Excess of Income over expenditure 408.65 13.19% 812.1 27.47%
Total 3098.84 100.00% 2,956.79 100.00%

*Rs in Lakhs

59
SAMARTHANAM IN NEWS

60
61
 When we receive the
best... we
we do
do the
the best!

62
 WALL OF FAME
AWARDS IN 2017-18

AP State Award under the category, Best Institution working in the field of disabilities.
Mahantesh GK honored with the prestigious ‘Kempegowda Award’ for his exceptional service to the society.

National Award for Empowerment of CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence 2018
Persons with Disabilities 2017

AWARDS AND CREDENTIALS

NASSCOM Social Innovation award

for use of technology in skilling for persons with disabilities 2016

Spirit of Humanity Award

for excellence in the field of eye care by AmeriCares India 2015
National Award for Child Welfare in the institution category 2014
State Award for Exceptional work in the field of disability 2013
PMI Award for Successful Project Management of World Cup for the Blind 2013
15th NCPEDP- Shell Helen Keller Award 2013
Nominee for “Indian of the Year - Public Service” by CNN-IBN 2012
Vajrakumara Award
for excellence in the field of providing a better lifestyle for people with different disabilities 2011

NDTV Spirit of Sports Award

for lifetime achievement for contribution in the field of sports against the odds 2012

National Award for Child Welfare 2010

Aryabhata International Award
in recognition of the excellent contribution and services in the field of Visually Impaired 2009

State Award in recognition of services rendered for persons with disabilities, 2007 and 2009
OFFICES
JP Nagar Division
#11, Villa Suchita, 1st Cross, 17th A Main,
J.P. Nagar II Phase, Bengaluru - 560078
Ph: 9449864770 National Office
E-18 A, East of Kailash, Ground Floor, New
HSR Layout (Head Office) Delhi - 110065
CA: 39, 15th Cross, 16th Main, Sector - 4, Ph: 011 40394381
HSR Layout, Bengaluru - 560102
Ph: 080 25729922 / 25721444 Guntur Division
# 4-14-223/6, First Floor, Anjaneyapet
Samarthanam High School Main Road, Amaravathi Road,
Madhuban Colony, 3rd Cross, Behind Opp Sri Rama Hospital, Guntur,
Shankar Math Prathistan, Hulimavu Andhra Pradesh - 522002
BG Road, Bengaluru - 560076 Ph: 0863 2345456 / 9490702460
Ph: 9449864776
Ananthapur Division
Gadag Division 5th Road, 5-988, Opp. to Sai Baba Temple,
L H.Dudihalli Building, 4th Cross, 5th Avenue Ward, Anantapur - 515004
Panchakshar Nagar, Gadag - 582101 Ph: 8332989918
Ph: 9480809581
Hyderabad Division
Dharwad Division Plot No. 11, Indirapuri Railway Colony
No. 48, Dasappa & Sons Building, 5th Main, West Maredpally, AOC Center,
Gandhi Nagar, Dharwad - 580004 Secunderabad - 500026
Ph: 9480812129 Ph: 040 48502125

Belagavi Division Mumbai Division

House No. 11, Scheme 40, Shri Ram Colony, B Wing, 302, 3rd Floor,
3rd Stage, Hanuman Nagar, Belagavi - Mangalya Society, Maroshi Road,
560019 Opp. Marol Fire Brigade, Near SBI Marol
Ph: 9480809598 Andheri East, Mumbai - 59
Ph: 022 62362290
Ballari Division
Door No. 17/1, Beside Maddikere Pune Division
Bhimayya School, Moka Road, Gandhi Hari Om Bungalow, 2nd Lane, Tara Dutt
Nagar Main Road, Ballari - 583103 Colony, Opp. B T Kawde Flyover, Ghorpadi,
Ph: 08392258344 / 9480812138 Pune - 411001

Chennai Division Kochi Division

Plot No.120, Sri Bhuvaneshwari Nagar, 2nd Floor, Adam Star Building,
1st Main Road, Velachery, Chennai - 600042 Near Corporation Bank, Mavelipuram
Ph: 044 48566509 Colony, Kakkanad, Kochi - 682030

Samarthanam Overseas Offices

Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled UK USA Office
447, Kenton Road, Harrow, Middlesex, Samarthanam USA, 21 Southwest Cutoff,
United Kingdom, HA3 OXY Northboro, MA 01532