Scholarship Support
Empowering Dreams: Scholarships for Abandoned Visually Impaired and Blind Girls
We understand the unique challenges faced by abandoned visually impaired and blind girls on their journey towards education and independence. For these girls, access to quality education is crucial in overcoming barriers and achieving their full potential. At Battle for Blindness, we recognise the significance of education in fostering independence and breaking down societal stereotypes, and that’s why we have been supporting them with our scholarship program.
Scholarship Initiative: From Desperation to Determination
A few years ago, Ram Kumar received a heart-wrenching call from a blind girl grappling with the harsh reality of her family's indifference. Her parents, dishearteningly, insisted that she either fend for herself or leave home, declaring she had no place there.
Upon connecting with this girl, she poured her heart out, expressing the unbearable burden of her existence. "What should I do? I don't feel like living; I am the burden of this world," she cried.
The reason became clear when our team inquired further—she lacked the means even to fill out a form or attend coaching classes for job preparation, leaving her unable to envision a path to independence. This poignant call ignited the inception of our scholarship, which aims to be a source of hope for those who face abandonment, adversity, and financial constraints on their journey toward self-sufficiency.
This scholarship initiative was born out of a deep commitment to empower abandoned blind girls, providing them with a lifeline to pursue their aspirations and navigate life's challenges when their families offer no emotional, financial, or physical support.
Sita Kumari: A Journey from Despair to Determination
Born into poverty in Katihar, Bihar, and blind since birth, Sita Kumari faced immense challenges. Losing her brother during the pandemic and battling societal stigma, she once felt hopeless about her future.
But her story took a turn when the Battle for Blindness Foundation stepped in, offering her immediate care and long-term support through regular scholarships, guidance, and personal mentorship. With this foundation of support and unwavering determination, Sita cleared her 10th grade and began preparing for competitive exams.
In 2023, she passed the Staff Selection Commission – Multi-Tasking Staff (SSC MTS) exam on her first attempt, despite having only 10% vision. This extraordinary achievement defied every expectation society had set for her. The SSC MTS examination selects candidates for Group C (non-gazetted, non-ministerial) positions across various prestigious ministries and departments of the Government of India.
Today, she is preparing for the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam, while also training with passion for the international Para-Olympics.
Sita's journey is not just about overcoming blindness—it's about proving that with the proper support and relentless grit, no dream is out of reach.
Janak Kanya Scholarship Program
The Janak Kanya Scholarship is our dedicated initiative to empower blind and visually impaired girls through education, support, and dignity. We offer assistance through three specific categories, designed to meet their evolving needs:
1. Janak Kanya – Monthly Support Scholarship (INR 1,200/month)
This monthly scholarship helps cover basic educational needs like books, transport, study material, and day-to-day expenses. It ensures continuous support so the girl can stay focused on her studies without interruption.
2. Janak Kanya – One-Time Financial Assistance (INR 10,000)
Aimed at supporting critical educational milestones, this one-time grant helps meet immediate needs such as school or college admission fees, assistive learning tools, exam preparation costs, or digital access.
3.Janak Kanya – Kanyadaan Support (Up to INR 1.5 Lakhs)
This support is offered during marriage to help the girl transition into the next chapter of her life with dignity. It reflects our belief that every girl deserves to move forward with pride, irrespective of her visual limitations.
Key Features of our Scholarship Program
- Financial Assistance: Our scholarships cover tuition fees, textbooks, assistive technology, and other educational expenses to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder their academic journey.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Recipients of our scholarships gain access to a network of mentors and advisors who can provide valuable insights, support, and guidance throughout their academic and professional endeavors.
- Community Building: We encourage a sense of community among scholarship recipients, fostering connections that go beyond the academic realm. This network provides a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and learn from one another.
Through our scholarship, we aim to empower these young women to excel academically and build fulfilling careers. Scholarships support education and foster independence, dignity, and hope.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
To apply for our scholarship program, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including proof of visual impairment or blindness, academic achievements, and a demonstrated commitment to overcoming challenges. The application process is designed to be accessible, accommodating various needs, and ensuring a fair evaluation of each applicant.
Required Documents for Scholarship Application
Applicants must submit the following documents to process their scholarship request.:
- Certificate of Visual Impairment issued by a certified ophthalmologist or government hospital
- Income Certificate of the parent or guardian
- Birth Certificate
- Death Certificate of parent's if the applicant is orphaned or has lost either parent
- Three recent passport-size photographs
- No Objection Certificate ⦅NOC⦆ if the applicant is currently enrolled in another school or college
- Marksheet of the most recent examination ⦅if applicable⦆
- UDID Card ⦅Unique Disability ID⦆
- Aadhaar Card
- Latest Admit Card or Application Form if the applicant has applied for any competitive examination
How You Can Make a Difference
Join us in the Battle for Blindness, where your support is the force that transforms dreams into reality. Together, let’s create a world where visually impaired and blind girls stand on equal ground, armed with the tools of education and personal development. Your generosity isn’t just an investment in individuals; it’s a commitment to building a society that embraces inclusivity and compassion.
Could you stand with us? Support our scholarship program and be the catalyst for their brighter, more inclusive future.
Supporting Blind Couples in Matrimony
At the Battle for Blindness Foundation, we firmly believe that disability should not be a barrier to leading a fulfilling life, personally and professionally. As part of our commitment to social inclusion, we organise marriage ceremonies for visually impaired couples in need. We provide financial assistance and essential household items during the Kanyadaan ritual, ensuring that they can embark on their journey as equal and contributing members of society.
