Blogs

 Programs
✦ Featured Article

How AZVS Started: Journey from Community Group to Disability Empowerment Movement

From humble beginnings in Kakinada to a growing movement across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana — the story of AZVS is one of resilience, community, and unwavering purpose.

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2025
🎧 Donation
Hearing Aid Donation – AZVS Kakinada

At AZVS Kakinada, a special support initiative was carried out for students enrolled in the Entrepreneurship Training Program. To ensure that every student can fully benefit from the training and participate confidently, Mr. P. Suresh Kumar, Founder of AZVS, personally donated a hearing aid to one of the candidates in need.

Real Stories
Hearing Aid Donation Kakinada
2025
💼 Training
Self-Employment Trainings
Self-Employment Trainings

AZVS conducts self-employment training programs for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and women, empowering them with practical skills and financial guidance. The trainings include phenyl making, agarbatti production, soap making, and jute bag preparation.

Sessions on entrepreneurship, marketing linkages, and business management enable participants to start their own ventures, earn sustainable incomes, and achieve financial independence with dignity.

Real Stories
2025 — Jan 29
🏢 Job Fair
Mega Job Fair for Persons with Disabilities and Unemployed Youth

AZVS, in collaboration with Cheshire Disabled Trust, organized a Mega Job Fair on January 29th, 2025 at MVR Degree College, Gajuwaka, Visakhapatnam.

This initiative connected persons with disabilities and unemployed youth with meaningful employment — with over 15 reputed companies and 100+ job openings available.

Real Stories
Mega Job Fair Visakhapatnam
2025
🌟 Job Fair
Mega Job Fair Chennai
Mega Job Fair for Persons with Disabilities – Chennai

AZVS organized a Mega Job Fair at the Vocational Rehabilitation Centre (VRC), Chennai, providing a platform for persons with disabilities to explore sustainable livelihood opportunities with 100+ job openings.

44 candidates shortlisted from 67 — a remarkable success for inclusive hiring, reaffirming AZVS's commitment to creating employment pathways for PwDs in Chennai.

Real Stories
2024 — Feb
🏆 Award
AZVS Best Organization Award SAMAGAMA 2024
AZVS Honored as Best Organization – SAMAGAMA 2024, Bangalore

At the prestigious SAMAGAMA 2024 event by Enable India in Bangalore, AZVS was honored with the "Best Organization Award" for outstanding contributions towards the empowerment and inclusion of PwDs.

Mr. P. Suresh Kumar, Founder of AZVS, proudly received the award — a testament to the relentless efforts of the AZVS team, volunteers, and partners across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

"Leaving No One Behind" — this recognition reaffirms AZVS's commitment to building a more inclusive society.

Real Stories
2024 — Feb
Participation
SAMAGAMA 2024 – AZVS Participation, Bangalore

In February 2024, the AZVS team actively participated in SAMAGAMA 2024, a flagship program organized by Enable India at Bangalore.

The event brought together disability leaders, organizations, employers, and changemakers from across the country to share experiences, best practices, and innovative approaches towards disability inclusion.

Real Stories
SAMAGAMA 2024 Participation
2024 — Jan
Support
Support to Annai Teresa Trust – January 2024

AZVS extended financial support of ₹5,000 to Annai Teresa Trust, Pammal, for the diaper requirements of persons with severe intellectual disabilities living in and around Pammal.

Many of these individuals are unable to control their urination, and their parents face immense challenges in providing daily care. Recognizing this urgent need, AZVS offered this meaningful contribution to ease the burden of families and caregivers.

Through such initiatives, AZVS reaffirms its mission to stand with the most vulnerable by supporting their essential care and dignity.

Real Stories
Support to Annai Teresa Trust Jan 2024
2024 — Jan
🎓 Graduation
Graduation Day Celebration – AZVS Chennai, January 2024

AZVS organized the Graduation Day for Persons with Disabilities who successfully completed their Soft Skills and Retail Marketing Training Program at the Chennai branch. The event recognized the dedication and achievements of trainees, now equipped with professional skills, confidence, and workplace readiness. Families, trainers, and partners joined to make it a memorable milestone.

Graduation Day 2024
Real Stories
2023 — Dec
🌍 Celebration
World Disability Day Celebration – AZVS Chennai, Dec 3, 2023

On December 3rd, 2023, the AZVS Chennai branch celebrated World Disability Day with enthusiasm and joy, together with our training candidates. The day was filled with fun games, interactive activities, and group bonding sessions that encouraged participation, teamwork, and confidence among PwDs. The celebration reinforced the spirit of equality and empowerment.

World Disability Day 2023
Real Stories
2023 — Oct
🚀 Launch
Pankh Program Inauguration – Chennai, October 2023

AZVS proudly inaugurated the Pankh Program in October 2023 at Chennai, marking a new milestone in empowering Persons with Disabilities through skill development and retail training. The program was launched to enhance employability and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. Participants receive structured training in retail operations, customer service, and workplace readiness — building confidence, independence, and social inclusion.

Pankh Program Inauguration 2023
Real Stories
2023 — Sep
Team Visit
Visit of Pankh Team to AZVS Chennai – September 2023

In September 2023, Ms. Sindhu from the Pankh team, along with Mr. P. Suresh Kumar (Founder, AZVS) and Ms. Jothi (Program Director, AZVS), visited the AZVS Chennai branch to interact with PwD candidates enrolled in the Pankh skill and retail training program. The team listened to their experiences and motivated them to pursue their career aspirations with confidence. Ms. Sindhu assured continued support from the Pankh initiative in training and placements.

Pankh Team Visit Sep 2023
Real Stories
2023 — Aug
💍 Community
Marriages for Persons with Disabilities – August 2023

In August 2023, AZVS Kakinada branch organized and solemnized 3 marriages for Persons with Disabilities. The couples and their families expressed immense joy as AZVS took complete care of all arrangements — including the gold mangalsutra, essential materials, accommodation for both families, and food. These marriages brought new beginnings and lifelong happiness, showcasing AZVS's commitment to building inclusive families and supporting the dreams of PwDs.

Marriages for PwDs 2023
Real Stories
2022
Foundation
AZVS Formally Registered

Organisation officially registered, marking the beginning of structured welfare programs.

2022
Para Sports
Para Sports Events – 2022

Every year, AZVS organizes Para Sports events to encourage and showcase the talents of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). These sporting activities highlight the skills and determination of participants and inspire others by proving that disability is not a barrier to achievement. Through these events, we create opportunities for recognition, motivation, and inclusion, while building confidence and promoting health and teamwork.

Para Sports Events 2022
Real Stories
500+
Lives Impacted
3
States Active
12+
Programs
6yr
Of Service
 Impact Stories
✦ Featured Article

Breaking Barriers: Three More Lives Empowered Through Inclusive Employment

At AZVS, every selection is more than just a job offer — it is a step toward dignity, independence, and social inclusion.

Today, the AZVS team accompanied our trained candidates for retail sector interviews. We are proud to share that three students successfully secured employment:

  • Two candidates selected at Reliance
  • One candidate selected at Unlimited

This achievement reflects months of skill development, confidence building, and continuous mentoring. Our candidates proved once again that disability is not inability.

Retail employment offers structured environments, customer interaction, and financial stability — significantly improving self-confidence for Persons with Disabilities.

Together, we are not just creating jobs — we are creating futures.

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Success Stories

Karthick V

Karthick V

Despite a locomotor disability, Karthick V from Chennai completed his Business Administration degree but faced repeated job rejections. Through AZVS training in computer skills, retail marketing, and personality development, he built confidence and secured a job at Unlimited Showroom, Chennai. His journey proves that determination and the right opportunities lead to success.

Unlimited Showroom, Chennai  |  ₹15,000 / month
Ragul S

Ragul S

Ragul S, who faced challenges as a slow learner, struggled to find work after completing his 10th grade. With support from AZVS skill training, he gained customer service and communication skills. Today, Ragul works as a Customer Service Executive at Unlimited Showroom, Mogappair. His success has brought joy to his family and inspires others to believe in their potential.

Unlimited Showroom, Mogappair  |  ₹15,000 / month
Antony Richard

Antony Richard

Antony Richard, living with multiple disabilities, completed his 10th grade but struggled to find employment despite his parents' support. Through training at the AZVS Ashraya Skill Development Center, Nolambur, he gained skills in computers, retail, customer care, and communication. With renewed confidence, Antony secured a job as a Customer Service Executive at Unlimited Showroom. His journey reflects determination, family support, and the power of skill development in transforming lives.

Unlimited Showroom  |  ₹11,000 / month
Mohan Raj

Mohan Raj

Mohan Raj, a young man with a hearing impairment from Thiruvannamalai, faced difficulties in securing employment. With support from AZVS training, he gained skills in computers, spoken English, retail marketing, and personality development. His dedication helped him secure a job as a Customer Service Executive at Home Centre. Mohan's journey proves that determination and the right support can change lives.

Home Centre  |  ₹13,000 / month
Shobana

Shobana

Shobana, daughter of Thyaguraj from Virudhunagar, is a young woman with a hearing impairment. After completing her 12th grade, she struggled to find work and remained at home for a year. With support from AZVS training, she learned basic computers, English, soft skills, and job-oriented skills. Today, she works as a Customer Service Executive at Reliance. Shobana proudly contributes to her family's income, and her journey stands as an inspiration of resilience and hope.

Reliance  |  ₹15,000 / month
Swetha

Swetha

Swetha is a young woman with a hearing impairment. After completing her 12th grade, she struggled to find work and remained at home for a year. With support from AZVS training, she learned basic computers, English, soft skills, and job-oriented skills. Today, she works as a Customer Service Executive at Reliance. Swetha proudly contributes to her family's income, and her journey stands as an inspiration of resilience and hope.

Reliance  |  ₹15,000 / month
 Events
✦ Featured Article

Job Mela 2026 – Empowering 42 PwDs, 32 Successful Placements

On 24th February 2026, Ashraya Zilla Vikalangula Samakya (AZVS) successfully organized a landmark Inclusive Job Mela exclusively for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) at the prestigious University Arts and Science College.

This impactful employment drive was not just an event — it was a powerful step toward building sustainable livelihoods, restoring dignity, and creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. The Job Mela strengthened AZVS’s mission of promoting inclusive employment and bridging the gap between skilled PwDs and inclusive employers.

🤝 Institutional Support & Collaboration

The success of this initiative was made possible through strong institutional collaboration and government support.

We extend our sincere gratitude to:

  • Ms. Jyothi, Principal of University Arts and Science College — for graciously providing the college premises and wholehearted encouragement.
  • Mr. Jithendar, Placement Officer — for his excellent coordination and continuous support.
  • Assistant Director for Persons with Disabilities (APD), Warangal — for extending valuable departmental support to the initiative.
Their encouragement and cooperation ensured that the event was organized smoothly, professionally, and meaningfully.
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👥 Leadership & AZVS Team Behind the Success

The program was led with vision and dedication by:

Founder, AZVS
Dr. P. Sureshkumar
Program Director
M. Nagajothi
Coordinator
G. Suresh
Staff Member
Ms. V. Jyothi
With the support of committed university volunteers, the AZVS team ensured seamless execution of candidate registration, employer coordination, interview scheduling, and guidance support throughout the day. Their collective effort created a structured, accessible, and candidate-friendly environment.
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📊 Impact Highlights – Numbers that Represent Transformation

The outcomes of the Job Mela reflect meaningful progress:

42
Persons with Disabilities Participated
32
Candidates Successfully Placed
4
Sectors with Opportunities
🛒 Retail 💰 Finance 🏗️ Construction 🏥 Healthcare
These numbers represent far more than job placements. They symbolize 32 families moving toward financial independence, increased confidence, and greater social inclusion. For many participants, this marked their first formal employment opportunity — a life-changing milestone that opens doors to long-term growth and stability.
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🏢 Participating Employers – Champions of Inclusive Hiring

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the employers who partnered with AZVS and demonstrated their commitment to inclusive workplaces:

💳
Paytm
Finance
👗
Zudio
Retail
💊
MedPlus
Healthcare
🏗️
SR Constructions
Construction
🛍️
Lifestyle
Retail
🛒
DMart
Retail
Their willingness to recruit and support Persons with Disabilities contributes significantly to building an equitable and diverse workforce ecosystem. Inclusive hiring is not just a corporate responsibility — it is a powerful driver of social transformation.
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🎉 Event Highlights

The Job Mela was marked by enthusiasm, professionalism, and hope. Key moments included:

🎙️
Formal Inauguration Ceremony
The event was officially launched with an opening ceremony setting the tone for an inclusive and empowering day ahead.
🤝
Employer Interactions & Structured Interviews
Candidates engaged directly with recruiters from leading organizations across retail, finance, healthcare, and construction sectors.
On-the-Spot Selections
32 candidates received immediate placement offers, making the day a landmark moment in their journey toward financial independence.
🏅
Volunteer Recognition & Certificate Distribution
Dedicated volunteers were formally acknowledged and presented with certificates in appreciation of their invaluable support.
🙏
Vote of Thanks
The program concluded with heartfelt gratitude extended to every stakeholder — employers, volunteers, and participants alike.
The event was a celebration of possibility — a reminder that when organizations come together with purpose, lives are changed. Every handshake, every interview, and every offer letter marked a step toward a more equitable and inclusive India.
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💛 Inclusion is Opportunity with Dignity
"Inclusion is not charity — it is about equal opportunity, capability recognition, and dignity."
— AZVS

This Job Mela stands as a testament to what collaboration between NGOs, government departments, educational institutions, and inclusive employers can achieve. When barriers are removed and opportunities are created, Persons with Disabilities demonstrate resilience, skill, and determination that enrich workplaces and communities alike.

⚖️
Equal Opportunity
🌟
Capability Recognition
🤲
Human Dignity
🤝
Collaboration
AZVS remains committed to creating pathways where every individual — regardless of ability — can contribute, grow, and thrive. Together, we are building a future where inclusion is the norm, not the exception.
📌 Looking Ahead

AZVS remains committed to expanding inclusive employment initiatives across regions. Moving forward, we will continue to:

🤝
Strengthen Employer Partnerships
Deepening ties with inclusive employers to create sustained, long-term opportunities for Persons with Disabilities.
📚
Skill Development & Job Readiness Training
Equipping candidates with the skills, confidence, and tools needed to succeed in today's competitive workforce.
📋
More Inclusive Job Fairs
Expanding the reach of Job Melas to new regions, bringing opportunity closer to communities that need it most.
📢
Advocate for Disability-Inclusive Workplace Policies
Championing systemic change so that inclusion is embedded into organizational culture — not just practice.
Together, we can create a future where ability is recognized beyond disability — and where every individual has the opportunity to contribute, grow, and thrive.
 Awareness
✦ Featured Article

Understanding Disability Rights in India: A Quick Guide for Employers & Citizens

How employers can create inclusive workplaces — grounded in the RPWD Act 2016.

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01
Rights
RPWD Act 2016 — Know Your Rights

Rights guaranteed to persons with disabilities under Indian law.

02
Workplace
Building an Inclusive Workplace

Practical steps for HR teams to ensure equal opportunity.

03
Community
How Communities Can Support PwD

Simple yet impactful ways to make daily life more accessible.