Srinagar: A 25-year-old specially-abled Irshad Ahmed is proving that physical limitations are no barrier to success. Despite his own challenges, Irshad is heading a tailoring unit at Hyderpora in Srinagar, that not only sustains his livelihood but also provides dignified employment to 25 other physically challenged individuals.
“If physically challenged people are given timely and better guidance, they can also play a big role in the overall development and progress of the society”, Irshad told UNI.
Irshad has not only proved his ability in setting up the tailoring unit but also shown his leadership quality by captaining the National Wheelchair Cricket Team.
As the eldest in his family, he supports his three younger brothers and his mother, shouldering responsibilities with unwavering resolve.
His tailoring unit specializes in crafting laptop bags, pouches, home décor items, and other accessories.
“My goal is to economically empower those who have been neglected, so that they can stand on their own feet instead of depending on others,” he says.
Irshad established his tailoring unit in the year 2021, defeating the perception in the society that physically challenged people cannot do any work.
“I spoke to Shafqat Rehabilitation Center about my project and they provided me full support, after which I established this unit and started working,” he said, adding “to start any work, one has to face difficulties first, but ‘Himmat-e- Marda, Madad-e- Khuda’ ( have courage and God will help) keeps one going.”
Irshad displayed his art of work at various exhibitions being held under Shafqat Rehabilitation Center and exhibited products that not only fetch him good money but also send a message to people and specially abled persons can also play a prominent role in the society.
“We also deliver these products online across the country. A courier company delivers our products for free”, he claimed.
The unemployed youth should not wait for finding a government job and should become a source of employment for others by adopting similar initiatives, he believes.
“One should focus on whatever ability he has to utilize that in a good way”, Irshad said.
Encouraging youth to take charge of their futures, he urged them not to rely solely on government jobs but to become job creators.
“The biggest disability is mental disability. One must overcome it, explore their hidden potential, and carve a place in society,” Irshad added.
