Deep inside the forests of Mundgod, India, lies the small settlement of Rampur, home to a handful of Valmiki tribal families who face deep poverty, discrimination and isolation.
For 49-year-old Nagavva, life was even harder. Living with a severe mobility disability, she struggled to move easily or earn an income.
As the world prepares to mark the International Day of People with Disability on 3 December, Nagavva’s story highlights the importance of ensuring every person with disability has the chance to participate fully in their community.
Worries and isolation
Nagavva’s husband, partially mute and battling addiction, and her son, who worked irregularly as a manual scavenger, meant she carried much of the responsibility for the family’s wellbeing. Their small hut had no land rights, water or electricity, and each day felt uncertain.
“I was always worrying about our fate. Neighbours ignored us. I felt completely isolated,” she recalls.
The turning point came in April 2022 when she joined the Sustainable Development Program for Indigenous Tribal Communities, run by our project partner Loyola Vikas Kendra, part of the North Karnataka Jesuits.
Learning rights, gaining courage
For the first time, Nagavva learned about her rights under the Disability Act 2016 and received step-by-step support to apply for entitlements.
“The awareness and guidance gave me courage,” she says. “The three-year development plan helped me stay focussed.”
Nagavva obtained her disability card, pension, special toilet and applied for mobility aids. With a loan from her Self Help Group, she started a small shop and later purchased a milking cow. Her family began working together, earning a steady income and rebuilding harmony at home.
“We eat together and plan our future. I’m happy now and helping other women and my neighbours,” she says.
As her confidence grew, she became a local leader, motivating women’s groups, youth and families to pursue their rights. Today, she dreams of expanding her shop, buying sheep and building a small house with space for her business.
With the International Day of People with Disability approaching on 3 December, Nagavva’s journey shows what is possible. Thanks to your generosity in 2025, this project supported more than 1,300 people like Nagavva to rebuild their livelihoods and help lift others.
