Ranchi, Feb. 18: Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan launched a book titled �I: Putting the Eye in IAS� in New Delhi on Thursday.
The book by Rajesh Singh unfolds an inspiring journey of a visually challenged person from one of the not so well-off families of Bihar to reach the most coveted post of IAS reflecting his struggles, both internal and external at different fronts.
The author of this book is currently an IAS officer born in Patna and had lost his eyesight in his childhood. However, he never lost faith in himself despite dejection at various levels. The book is published by Vigilante Publications.
Though a work of fiction, the book draws heavily from the real life challenges which a visually challenged individual has to face at all levels, when looked through the prism of experience of the author who is exposed to the same world.
The book primarily revolves around the main character Rakesh Sinha who lacks eyesight but has a deep vision ingrained in him to become and serve as an IAS officer despite many hurdles which he faces at different stages of his journey.
Going beyond, the story is set up in a milieu which casts light on how time and again society fails to recognize the humanitarian needs and is non-conducive to the progress of the marginalized sections including those who may be differently-abled, economically or socially backward.
Launching the book, Sumitra Mahajan said, �Creativity, ability and skills of differently-abled and other marginalized sections of the society should not go wasted. As a pluralistic society, we must be more sensitive to the specific requirements of different segments. By doing this, we can ensure everyone gets to make their share of contribution in mainstream development and nation building.�
Talking about the book, she added, �This book illustrates that through perseverance and sincere efforts, every person has capability to transform their own lives and pave their way for a brighter tomorrow. One should not lose hope under any circumstance and convert their challenges into opportunities.�
Rajesh Singh, author of the book and an IAS officer, said, �My work attempts to highlight from the perspective of a visually challenged person that how our society sometime perceives differently-abled people as disabled, failing to recognize their talents and skills and hone them from a tender age.�
�A first-of-its kind in its genre, my book endeavors to take the readers through not only the external but also the internal struggles fought at different fronts by visually challenged people.
I hope my work motivates not only the visually challenged but every individual in this society who is going through their own personal battles to unleash their potential to the fullest and become their best selves in the process.�
The book, �I: Putting the Eye in IAS� will be very soon available in Braille as well. A considerable part of the proceeds earned from the sale of the book will go for the uplift of visually impaired.
Compassionate towards the weaker section of the society, Rajesh Singh is currently authoring his next book based on the lives of marginalized children.