He is blind8230; but not without vision

quot;I think I have improved the image of a blind person in society and have shown that he can forge ahead in society, given a little concern and encouragement,quot; Ramandeep says. He has recently achieved the distinction of developing a special software to transcribe the Braille press into Hindi Braille for blind learners in India. He was in the city to attend a meet of the disabled organised by the Chandigarh Social Welfare Advisory Board.

Having lost his sight at the age of three, Ramandeep continued studying in normal schools, competing with normal children throughout. quot;This gave me a good exposure and made me feel normal at every stage. I got discouraged sometimes because of being dependent on others for reading, writing and mobility, but my friends helped me gain confidence as I grew.quot;

Ramandeep has been a topper in the school and has scored a gold medal in BA for securing the top position in an evening college of Punjab University.

But what is really a matter of pride for him and his family who run their own business is that he became financially self-reliant at the age of 20. quot;I learnt computers for one year after Plus Two and then did graduation and a business management course simultaneously, with my computer unit already functioning by that time.quot;

But is the government sincere in rehabilitating the disabled? No, says Ramandeep. quot;Government establishments do not have the confidence and belief in the capabilities of a handicapped person. I am being preferred by the private companies due to my educational and professional background. Government officials are cruel when they offer to help me out in some way because of my physical condition8230; This comes as an embarrassment to a handicapped person rather than an inspiration.quot;