Breaking Barriers, Building Economies: How India’s Entrepreneurs with disabilities are fueling the Nation’s GDP”

New Delhi : Shattering stereotypes and redefining perceptions, persons with disabilities in India are stepping into the spotlight as empowered entrepreneurs, building businesses worth crores and creating thousands of jobs. Once seen through the lens of dependency, these individuals are now celebrated as contributors to the nation’s GDP. And the driving force behind this transformative movement? The dynamic DHAN Network – Divyangjan Hunar Atmanirbhar Network , a groundbreaking business network exclusively for persons with disabilities.

In just four years, the DHAN Network has united over 1,200 entrepreneurs across 10 Indian states, empowering them to achieve an annual turnover of ₹100 crore while generating employment for more than 2,500 individuals. Remarkably, 33% of these entrepreneurs are women, showcasing the network’s commitment to inclusivity.

This movement is spearheaded by Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneur Association (IDEA) , a social enterprise dedicated to fostering self-reliance among persons with disabilities. IDEA provides training, mentorship, market access, and financial support, creating a robust ecosystem where these entrepreneurs thrive.

A Visionary Mission for Inclusion and Economic Growth

IDEA’s Founder and CEO, Mr. Mallikarjuna Iytha, shares, “Through the DHAN Network, we are building a community of entrepreneurs who are not just creating wealth but also changing societal perceptions. We want the world to see persons with disabilities as contributors to economic growth, not as dependents.” His visionary efforts were recently recognized with the prestigious National Award 2024, conferred by the President of India for exemplary work in empowering persons with disabilities.

Celebrating Success at the Divya Kala Mela

IDEA recently showcased its impact at the Divya Kala Mela near India Gate, where over 20 entrepreneurs from the DHAN Network set up stalls and collectively generated 20 lakhs in revenue. The event also marked the launch of the Delhi Chapter of the DHAN Network , inaugurated by renowned hairstylist Javed Habib, and the commencement of the Swavlamban Yatra to inspire economic independence among persons with disabilities. On the final day, IDEA provided seed grants of ₹25,000 each to 46 budding entrepreneurs , helping them kickstart their ventures after completing a five-day entrepreneurial training program.

IDEA has set an ambitious goal for the coming years: training 5,000 entrepreneurs, achieving a collective business turnover of ₹1,500 crore, and creating 10,000 jobs. Through its work, IDEA is not only transforming lives but also paving the way for India to become a global leader in inclusive economic development.

As India strides toward a more inclusive future, initiatives like IDEA and the DHAN Network stand as powerful testaments to the potential of entrepreneurship to drive social change and economic growth.