Jamshedpur’s Vineet Saraiwala receives National Award from President for empowering disabled

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Dec 3: Vineet Saraiwala, a prominent social entrepreneur from Jamshedpur, was honoured today at the Rashtrapati Bhavan for his exceptional contributions towards empowering persons with disabilities (PWD). Saraiwala is the founder of ‘Atypical Advantage,’ India’s largest livelihood platform for people with disabilities. The platform provides a space where individuals with disabilities can showcase their talents and connect with companies and agencies seeking diverse skills. His relentless efforts in creating opportunities for disabled individuals earned him the prestigious National Award in the Best Institution (Private Organization, NGO) category for Disabled Empowerment, awarded by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Alongside Vineet, his father Kailash Saraiwala and mother were also present at Rashtrapati Bhavan to receive the honour. Vineet, an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition that caused gradual vision loss. This personal challenge motivated him to start Atypical Advantage, aiming to create an inclusive society where disabled people can contribute their skills.

Vineet’s journey also gained national attention when he appeared on Shark Tank season 2, where he shared his story and the mission behind Atypical Advantage. In a speech lasting under two minutes, he highlighted the importance of perspective over vision, reflecting on his experiences at IIMB and the impact Atypical Advantage has had. His appearance on the show led to an investment offer of Rs 30 lakh for 3% equity, which he accepted. Vineet’s work has been widely recognized across the country, with strong support for his vision of inclusion and empowerment.

Vineet’s maternal uncle, the well-known social worker Binod Bhageria, expressed immense pride in his nephew’s achievement and the recognition he received from the President of India. Vineet’s office is located in the Circuit House area of Jamshedpur, where he continues to drive his mission of disability empowerment.