• Honour for achievers with the vision to light up others’ life
    Times of India | 21 September 2025
  • Kolkata: Railway commuters at Sealdah have been following Paritosh Biswas's announcements on the public address system, guiding them to their designated platforms, for over three decades.

    The Eastern Railway employee never allowed his blindness to come in his professional life.

    Biswas (59), Lt Col Dwarakesh Chandrasekharan and the Blind & Para Judo Association of Bengal, which promotes judo among blind people, were honoured with Disha Samman 2025, presented by Disha Eye Hospitals on Saturday. Each was presented with a plaque and a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh.

    "Sincere efforts and determination can help anyone overcome challenges," said Biswas.

    Rajeev Saxena, divisional railway manager, ER, Sealdah, Jasram Meena, senior divisional commercial manager, ER, Sealdah and singer Rupankar Bagchi attended the event.

    Chandrasekharan (32), based out of Indore, joined the event virtually. The ‘Youth Icon' lost his vision on duty, but went on to excel in paralympic shooting and mountaineering. "As a Youth Icon, I urge all youngsters to strive to turn their dreams into reality.

    No one should let physical limitations to determine their goals," he said.

    Amit K Chourasiya, president of Blind & Para Judo Association of Bengal said, "We have trained players who have won gold in international domain. This award will motivate us to continue the work."

    Debashish Bhattacharya, chairman and managing director of Disha Eye Hospitals, said, "We honour those who transform challenges into bravery, hardship into motivation. Awardees from Army and railways prove genuine vision is not only about sight but also about resilience and the capacity to illuminate others' path."
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