"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Positive Reads

India’s First Restaurant that Sets a New Standard in Conscious Dining

A restaurant in Pune has taken the social media world by storm with its innovative approach to dining while promoting a powerful message of equality. Terrasinne - Kitchen and Bar, located on FC Road, has gained attention for its unique concept of employing individuals with disabilities. To enhance the interaction between staff and customers, Terrasinne has devised a remarkable method of communication. A viral Instagram video showcased how customers can order using sign language. Each dish on the menu is accompanied by its corresponding sign language symbol, allowing patrons to express their preferences through gestures.  Dr. Sonam Kapse, a cancer genetics specialist turned restaurateur, has played a pivotal role in implementing these initiatives.Dr. Kapse describes Terrasinne as a "Socially Conscious Movement" that strives to promote inclusivity and equality. The establishment started with training individuals from the deaf community and has gradually expanded to include over 12 different disability communities.  All staff members undergo training programs that are meticulously designed, taking into account psychological, behavioral, physical, and emotional aspects, and have garnered global validation and appreciation. Beyond providing employment opportunities, Terrasinne also supports local farmers. Organic ingredients, such as millets, are sourced from farmers in Maharashtra and Karnataka. The restaurant adheres to the farm-to-table concept, ensuring no preservatives, additives, or unhealthy ingredients are used in the kitchen. Terrasinne offers a modern and elegant dining experience, boasting an extensive menu that caters to all culinary preferences. The restaurant has received numerous accolades for its authentic cuisine from around the world. Terrasinne's remarkable efforts have not gone unnoticed. The restaurant received an award from former President Ram Nath Kovind and had the opportunity to present its concept to the National Human Rights Commission in Delhi. This groundbreaking restaurant has garnered significant recognition, receiving the prestigious "Hospitality with a Cause" award from the International Hospitality Council in London.  Social media users have expressed awe and admiration for Terrasinne's empowering efforts. The unique dining experience and the restaurant's commitment to quality food have garnered praise from visitors as well. Starting June 10, Terrasinne is introducing a "Special Shift" catering to individuals with epilepsy, cerebral palsy, mental illness, developmental disabilities, and blindness. Open from 4 pm to 7 pm exclusively for Pune residents, this shift offers a complete menu at an affordable price. Terrasinne is more than just a restaurant; it is a symbol of empowerment and an embodiment of the belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities.

8 Jun 2023
Positive Reads

A Mother like no other

Dr. Pullara Bhanumati grew up with three brothers with mental disabilities, one of whom died in her arms as he wasn't given proper treatment due to his mental condition. Her heart reached out to people with mental disabilities and she wanted to help them. She opened an institute for them in a government school 19 years ago. Today, after lots of efforts and sacrifice, she has a new building which houses around 50 mentally challenged people who are treated with utmost care and dignity. Dr. Pullara is a professor of Zoology. She balances her profession and her service at her institute-  Association for Mentally Handicapped Adults (AMHA) in Trishur, Kerala. Earlier, her salary was the only source of income, yet she didn't give up as she wanted to bring a difference in the lives of these less privileged people. Initially, there were only a handful of adults at the institute, now AMHA attends to over 50 adults. The institute accommodates all members and also those who come on a daily basis from nearby places. From Downs Syndrome to Cerebral Palsy, the institute takes in all those in need of support and care.  Dr.Pullara is fondly called 'Amma' as she shares a close bond with all members of AMHA. She not only takes good care of them like a mother, but also aims to make them independent. She has therefore, made provisions to give them vocational training. The members learn to make candles, incense sticks, soaps, ornaments, washing powder, paintings, handicrafts etc. The money earned from selling these products are distributed among them.  Many members have been able to transform their lives after coming to the institute. Raghav (name changed) always remained aloof and hardly spoke to anyone when he came to Dr. Pullara ten years ago. After regular intervention and training, Raghav became a confident person and is now the care taker of the institute.  Like Raghav, Joy used to roam on the streets begging until Dr. Pullara spotted him. She contacted Joy's family and convinced them to send Joy to their institute. Pullara says that sometimes her work becomes very challenging when people doubt her intentions and think that she is doing this for fame, but having grown up with three mentally challenged brothers, she very well understands their needs and wants to bring a smile on their faces and help them lead a more dignified life. For her it is a wonderful feeling to run the institute and see the members transform themselves and lead happy lives.  Dr. Pullara is not alone in her mission as her husband supports her wholeheartedly. So passionate was the couple for this cause that they decided not to have children of their own and takes care of all 50 members of AMHA as if they were their own children. Dr. Pullara solely funded AMHA, but now she has started getting help from likeminded people. Sometimes, people sponsor meals of residents, donate items and offer monetary help. Although sometimes, she faces a financial crunch, she has kept the initiative going. May she be blessed with all the strength and support she needs to carry on this noble endeavour.

8 Apr 2017
Positive Reads

Good News

First-of-its-kind Initiative: Karnataka to Witness a Historic Change with Vote from Home Facility

The Election Commission (EC) of India has rolled out a groundbreaking initiative to empower the democratic process and encourage greater participation of the elderly and disabled in the upcoming Karnataka Assembly Elections.  The EC announced the poll dates on Wednesday, last week and introduced the 'Vote for Home' (VFH) facility, which will allow senior citizens aged over 80 and people with disabilities to cast their votes from the comfort of their own homes. This first-of-its-kind initiative will ensure greater participation of these segments of society in the election process, allowing them to exercise their right to vote without having to physically visit a polling station. The initiative comes ahead of the Assembly Elections, which will be held on May 10, with results announced on May 13. The state of Karnataka has a voter base of 5.21 crore people, out of which 12.15 lakh voters are above the age of 80 and little more than 5 lakh voters have some form of disability. Additionally, about 9.17 lakh first-time voters will be eligible to cast their vote for the first time. The EC will deploy polling teams to lakhs of designated homes on pre-informed dates, where they will collect postal ballots from residents who have opted for VFH. This initiative will reduce the rigors of visiting a polling station and ensure the safety and comfort of elderly citizens and people with disabilities. The BBMP officials have taken up a door-to-door campaign to inform residents about the new facility, particularly the elderly, to make the process smooth and hassle-free. The initiative is being hailed as a major step towards making the democratic process more inclusive and accessible for all, regardless of their age or physical abilities.

28 Apr 2023
Good News

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