Date:19/11/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/11/19/stories/2008111959130200.htm

Tamil Nadu

Madurai woman wins award

Staff Reporter

S. Amuthashanthy

MADURAI: S. Amuthashanthy of Thyagam Women Trust has won the prestigious National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) — Shell Helen Keller Award for the year 2008.

Ms. Amuthashanthy, a resident of Madurai, is a postgraduate. She runs the Thyagam Women Trust, a centre for the physically disabled women, through which she provides employment by running tailoring units and computer centres for the disabled.

The award is given under ‘category A,’ which is for disabled persons from within and outside the disability sector who have been active ambassadors of the cause of employment for disabled people and are a positive role model for others. She is one among four individuals chosen under the category.

Due recognition

Feeling happy over winning the award, Ms. Amuthashanthy said, “We see it as a recognition of our organisation for its service and this award will surely inspire us to reach more disabled people who need support and help.”

Instituted in 1999, the N.C.P.E.D.P.-Shell Helen Keller awards symbolise an equal playing field for people with disabilities. Every year, 12 role models are selected — those who have been doing exemplary work towards helping people with disabilities to find positions of equality and dignity in the workplace. They may be individuals or organisations, with a vision to look beyond the obvious.

The award carries a medal and a citation. It will be presented on December 2, the eve of the World Disability Day.