Vijay was born in Delhi. At the age of three, he got affected by polio in both lower limbs. Vijay used to sell roasted channa masala, along with other snacks from his tricycle. He managed to earn Rs 20 -25/ day from this. This amount was then utilised for getting materials for the next day’s preparation. The business worked well till his tricycle was in good condition. But gradually the tricycle deteriorated in performance and he became helpless and dependent. This was the time he felt his disability was a curse and he could not do much without his tricycle and his small earning source had also gone.
In the beginning he used to live with his brother’s family, but later he moved out as he felt he was a burden on them and they were not supporting him and his small income activity. After learning about the ARS scheme of FOD, he changed his line of business and started selling CDs and cassettes. Currently, he earns about Rs 300-350 per day.

Starting his business with an initial investment of Rs 3500/- he has increased the items by another Rs 2500: a great achievement for a person who was earning nothing at all. He has approached FOD again for a second instalment of funds. FOD recognized and appreciated his efforts and helped him in further expanding his shop. Consequently the sales of the CDs, cassettes, and earnings have also increased. This is an indicator of his success as well as the success of FOD in rebuilding a life through the ARS Scheme.

Today, he has the confidence to teach others that disability is no longer a hindrance in proving one’s ability and desire to be self-dependent. He is an inspiration to others with disabilities, who want to work and become economically self-sufficient.