In a truly inspiring testament to the human spirit, women who have faced the immense challenges of disability and vision impairment have risen above adversity, carving out a place of equality and respect in society through their exceptional talent and ability. Their achievements are a powerful reminder that with unwavering determination and relentless effort, any obstacle can be overcome, and success is not only possible but attainable.
This report compiles the remarkable accomplishments of 15 visually impaired and disabled women between 2020 and 2025. It celebrates their incredible courage, steadfastness, and self-belief, showcasing how their contributions through their talent have empowered them to achieve remarkable feats and earn their rightful place in society.
India’s first visually impaired woman appointed as Oodhuvar
In a groundbreaking moment for inclusivity and devotion, SS Priyaavadana, on May 27, 2025 has become the first visually impaired woman to be appointed as an Oodhuvar (devotional singer/priest) at the Pamban Swamigal Mandir in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai. This historic appointment marks a significant step towards greater equality and recognition within traditional religious institutions. Priyaavadana’s remarkable journey is a testament to her dedication and talent. She earned a B.A. in Vocal Music from the Tamil Nadu Government Music College and further honed her skills with diplomas in Music Teaching and “Isai Kalaimani.” Her unwavering commitment culminated in her successful completion of the Archaka Training Institute, preparing her for this pioneering role.
Visually impaired woman conquers Mount Everest
Chhonzin Angmo from Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh has become the first visually impaired woman from India to successfully summit the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters). Her incredible feat is a testament to her extraordinary Chhonzin Angmo pursued her education after studying at the Mahabodhi School in Leh. She completed her post-graduation from Miranda House, Delhi University. Currently, she works at the Union Bank of India in Delhi. Her remarkable contributions have been recognised with the CavinKare ABILITY Award in 2024, and later in 2024, she received an award from the President for empowering persons with disabilities.
From abandonment to achievement: Mala Papalkar’s MPSC success story
Twenty-five years after being found abandoned in a dustbin at the Jalgaon railway station in Maharashtra, visually impaired Mala Papalkar has achieved a remarkable feat: successfully clearing the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examination. Her journey is a powerful testament to her resilience and determination. Mala’s academic path is as inspiring as her MPSC success. She completed her 10th and 12th standard examinations from Dr. Narendra Bhivapurkar Amba Vidyalaya, Amravati. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Vidarbha Gyan Vigyan Sansthan, Amravati, in 2018, and subsequently obtained her postgraduate degree. Her story is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even against overwhelming odds, dedication to education and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Devshree Bhoyar: A vsionary scholar’s inspiring PhD journey
Despite being visually impaired, Devshree Bhoyar from Raipur achieved a remarkable academic milestone by earning her Doctorate (Ph.D.) from Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University. Her research focused on “Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Contribution to Indian Politics,” showcasing her deep intellectual engagement. Devshree’s educational path is a testament to her tenacity. She completed her 10th, 12th, undergraduate, and even her Ph.D. studies primarily from home, utilising digital resources. Currently, she serves as a lecturer at a government school in Dhamdha continuing to inspire through her dedication and accomplishments.
Geeta Mahto becomes vice-captain of Indian women’s blind cricket team
Visually impaired cricketer Geeta Mahto from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, was appointed the vice-captain of the Indian women’s blind cricket team for the India-Nepal bilateral T20 series held in Mumbai in December 2023. This is a significant milestone in her sporting career. Geeta’s journey began with her initial education at St. Michael’s Blind School in Ranchi. She then pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Hindi Journalism and Mass Communication from Delhi University. She is a B3 category player, recognised for her expertise in batting, showcasing her skill and dedication on the field.
Pranjal Patil makes history: India’s first visually impaired IAS officer
Pranjal Patil from Thane, Maharashtra has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming India’s first visually impaired IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer. She successfully cleared the highly competitive UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination, a testament to her self-confidence and the strategic use of technological assistance. Pranjal’s educational journey began at Kamala Mehta Dadar School for the Blind in Mumbai. She then went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from St. Xavier’s College. Her pursuit of knowledge continued at Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, where she completed her Post Graduation in International Relations, followed by M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees. Her inspiring story highlights how determination and access to resources can break down significant barriers.
India’s first visually impaired woman cook on YouTube: The inspiring story of Bhoomika
Bhoomika from Bengaluru has become India’s first visually impaired woman to launch a cooking channel on YouTube. Her initiative shatters stereotypes and demonstrates remarkable self-reliance. Despite her visual impairment, Bhoomika embraced training to stay active and developed a strong desire to pursue a career. Inspired by a relative, she ventured into cooking on YouTube, proving that disability is not a limit, but rather a challenge on the path to self-reliance that can be overcome with determination and courage. Her channel stands as a testament to her inspiring spirit and culinary talent.
Visually impaired scholar becomes assistant professor of music
Muskan Negi, a talented visually impaired scholar from Shimla currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Music from Himachal Pradesh University and a renowned singer, has been selected for the position of Assistant Professor of Music in the college cadre. This achievement highlights her exceptional talent and dedication. Muskan’s academic journey is truly inspiring. After completing her 12th standard from Portmore School in Shimla, she earned her B.A. from R.K.M.V. College with a scholarship from Umang Foundation. She then pursued her M.A. and M.Phil. from Himachal Pradesh University before enrolling in a Ph.D. programme, where she’s currently conducting research. Beyond academia, Muskan has showcased her remarkable singing talent internationally, performing in India and the US. Her accomplishments have also been recognised by the Election Commission of India, which appointed her as a Brand Ambassador for the 2017 and 2022 Assembly elections and the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Additionally, she has received national accolades such as the “Golden Voice Award” and the “Udaan Idol Award.”
Triumph over adversity: Ayushi Dabas cracks UPSC with 48th rank
Despite living with a disability, Ayushi Dabas achieved an extraordinary feat by securing the 48th rank in the UPSC 2021 examination after five years of dedicated effort. Her success stands as a powerful testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. Ayushi completed her undergraduate degree from Shyam Prasad Mukherji College, Delhi University. She then pursued her postgraduate studies in History from IGNOU. In 2019, she cleared the Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) examination, beginning her career as a history lecturer. Her journey exemplifies how consistent hard work and a strong will can lead to remarkable accomplishments.
Triumph over adversity: Visually impaired Pratibha Thakur becomes assistant professor
Despite being visually impaired, Pratibha Thakur from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has set an inspiring example by becoming an Assistant Professor in Political Science. Her achievement is a testament to her unwavering determination and academic prowess. Pratibha’s journey began with home-schooling until the fifth standard. Throughout her school and college years, she excelled in various debate competitions and poetry recitations, winning numerous awards. She earned her postgraduate degree in Political Science, followed by higher degrees, including M.Phil. and Ph.D. Additionally, she successfully cleared eligibility exams like UGC-NET and SET. Beyond her academic brilliance, Pratibha is also a sensitive poet, showcasing her multifaceted talent.
Purna Sunthari’s UPSC triumph: A beacon of resilience
Despite living with a disability, Purna Sunthari achieved a remarkable feat by successfully clearing the UPSC examination in her fourth attempt in 2019, securing an impressive All India Rank of 286. Her unwavering determination set a powerful example for aspiring candidates nationwide. Purna Sunthari completed her early education at Pilamar Sangam Higher Secondary School in Madurai. She then earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Fatima College, Madurai. Her journey towards civil services began in 2016 when she started preparing for the highly competitive UPSC examination, culminating in her inspiring success.
Divya Sharma’s “Udaan”: An online journey empowering the disabled across 115 nations
Despite losing her eyesight, Divya Sharma from Una, Himachal Pradesh, refused to give up. Driven by a mission to inspire people with disabilities to pursue their dreams, she launched “Udaan” an online motivational session from her home. Today, her sessions are heard in 115 countries, making a global impact. For her exceptional work in the field of disability empowerment, she was honoured with the Presidential Award on December 3, 2023. Divya Sharma completed her 10th, 12th, and undergraduate studies from home with the help of YouTube and other digital resources. She is a talented keyboard braille typist and also creates covers on digital platforms by playing the guitar and ukulele, showcasing her diverse skills and unwavering spirit.
India’s first visually impaired IFS officer: Beno Zephine’s pioneering achievement
Born 100 per cent visually impaired, Beno Zephine from Kollam, Kerala etched her name in history by clearing the Civil Services Examination in 2015, achieving the distinction of becoming India’s first visually impaired woman IFS (Indian Foreign Service) officer. Her remarkable accomplishment shattered barriers and opened new pathways for inclusivity in public service. Beno Zephine’s academic journey laid a strong foundation for her success. She completed her school education at Little Flower Convent Higher Secondary School in Chennai. She then pursued her undergraduate degree at Stella Maris College, followed by postgraduate studies at Loyola College. Her persistent dedication and intellectual prowess ultimately led her to this groundbreaking role in India’s diplomatic corps.
Priya Chhabra’s football leadership: Conquering challenges as captain of MP Blind Football Team
Despite being visually impaired, Priya Chourasia, from Umaria, Madhya Pradesh through her unwavering determination and hard work, has successfully captained the Madhya Pradesh Blind Football Team, establishing her presence at both state and national levels. Priya completed her education up to the 8th standard in Shahdol. She is currently pursuing her M.A. in Indore while also effectively leading the blind football team. In recognition of her outstanding performance, she was honoured with the “Best Against All Odds Women” award by Commissioner Rajiv Sharma in Shahdol.
Jyothsna Phanija: The youngest visually impaired PhD holder in India
Born visually impaired, Jyothsna Phanija do from Hyderabad achieved a remarkable milestone by earning a Doctorate in English Literature from an Indian university, making her the second youngest visually impaired PhD holder in the country. This accomplishment highlights her exceptional dedication and intellectual prowess. Jyothsna completed her 10th standard education at Andhra Blind Model High School in Risalpur. She then pursued her undergraduate degree from Stella Maris College in Vijayawada. In 2011, she qualified for the National Eligibility Test (NET) in English. Her academic contributions include ten research papers published in various books and prestigious journals. Currently, Jyothsna serves as an Assistant Professor at a renowned university in Delhi, continuing to inspire through her work and achievements.
These 15 trailblasing women exemplify what it means to rise beyond physical limitations and societal expectations. Their achievements not only redefine what is possible for people with visual impairments but also inspire a more inclusive vision of success and empowerment. Whether through scaling the world’s highest peak, breaking barriers in academia and civil services, or leading in sports and digital platforms, these women have illuminated the path for countless others.
Comments