Specially-abled entrepreneur creates jobs for Divyang community through 'The Tea Express' in Raipur
Raipur, July 2
A specially-abled entrepreneur from Raipur is inspiring others by creating employment opportunities for persons with disabilities through her tea stall, "The Tea Express", located near the District and Sessions Court in the Chhattisgarh capital.
Founded by Girja Jalchatri, a resident of Shanti Nagar, the tea stall employs mostly specially-abled individuals and has become a symbol of empowerment and self-reliance.
Speaking to ANI, Girja Jalchatri recalled the challenges she faced before gaining confidence to pursue her entrepreneurial journey.
"There was a time when I didn't think that divyang people could achieve anything in life. I lacked self-confidence... I always thought that people would laugh at me or make fun of me when they saw me. But seeing other divyang peers during the computer course at the Women's Polytechnic College in Baron Bazar boosted my confidence," she said.
She added, "I joined the Samarth Charitable Trust and started working to connect divyang people with government schemes and livelihoods. Today, our team has 10 members, two of whom are non-disabled and the rest are from the Divyang category."
One of the employees, Surekha Sonkar, said working at the tea stall transformed her life and gave her financial independence.
"I am 80 per cent disabled, and I work in the canteen of the District Council Court. Earlier, even stepping out of the house was difficult, but after connecting with Girja Didi, my confidence increased. We helped differently-abled companions get tricycles, medical certificates, and benefits of government schemes. Today, I am self-reliant and do not depend on anyone," Sonkar told ANI.
Advocate Ranjeesh Jha praised the initiative, saying it has created meaningful employment while promoting dignity and inclusion.
"This initiative has been taken by the government and our advocates' association for specially-abled people. There is a very good arrangement here, and these people treat their guests with a sense of service and love. This is a very good initiative," Jha said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is what 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' looks like at the grassroots. Girja ji hasn't just set up a tea stall; she's created a movement. The legal fraternity supporting this is also commendable. One suggestion: maybe the stall could also sell some snacks like samosas or biscuits to increase revenue? Chai and snacks go hand in hand! 🫖😊
Heartwarming initiative! But I hope the government is also providing proper support like subsidized rent or equipment for such entrepreneurs. We often applaud individuals but forget systemic issues. Also, more awareness campaigns in rural areas could help replicate this model. Kudos to Girja didi for breaking stereotypes! 👏
As someone who works in accessibility consulting in the US, this is inspiring. 'The Tea Express' shows that inclusion isn't just about ramps or Braille; it's about creating dignified livelihoods. The fact that Surekha ji, with 80% disability, is now financially independent is a powerful example. I wish more Indian courts and public spaces would adopt similar canteen models run by Divyang individuals. Respect from California! 🌍
This is the kind of news that restores faith in humanity. While we often obsess over GDP numbers and stock markets, real development happens when the most marginalized get a seat at the table—or in this case, a stall at the court. I hope other cities like Nagpur, Bhopal, and Indore take inspiration. Also, Girja didi, your story made me cry tears of joy. 🥹✨ Jai Hind!
V Vikram M