History and Achievements

Janta Rehabilitation Training Centre for the Visually Handicapped (JRTC) began with a profound vision born from personal experience. Our story is inextricably linked to our founder, Shri J.S. Sharma. Born in a small village in U. P. and lost his sight at the age of 3 (Three). He obtain  primary and secondary education in the local village school. Then he joined the Lal Kuan Centre of Blind Relief Association, Delhi for about 5 years. He dedicated his life to breaking down barriers for blind children and adults across India, driven by the unwavering belief that blindness should never impede education or personal growth.

In 1970, Shri Sharma established the educational society ‘Janta Adarsh Andh Vidyalaya’ in Sadiq Nagar, South Delhi, starting with just two students in a humble setting. Gradually, the number of students increase and the vidyalaya began receiving central assistance from 1985. In 1992 a piece of land was allotted to the vidyalaya and in 1995 the vidyalaya received recognition from the Directorate of Education, Delhi Administration as a middle school. Currently more than 100 students (Boys and girls) are taking facilities over there. This society laid the groundwork for what was to come.

Recognizing that many adults had missed early educational opportunities, Shri Sharma established Janta Rehabilitation Training Centre for the Visually Handicapped (JRTC) in 1996. This marked a pivotal moment, extending our mission to provide vocational training, comprehensive rehabilitation, and employment support to visually impaired adults. From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a registered non-profit, non-sectarian, and inclusive organization, welcoming visually impaired adults aged 16–35 from all corners of India.

However, a significant challenge arose with the passing of Shri J.S. Sharma on January 30, 2000. His demise plunged JRTC into an era of profound uncertainty. The progress meticulously built began to falter, and the organization faced severe financial strain. For its daily operations and staff salaries, the society was forced to take out loans, which was increasing rapidly. The very survival of JRTC was at stake, and the future looked bleak.

It was in this critical period, from 2009 onwards, that Shri Narender Sharma, son of the late Shri J.S. Sharma, stepped forward to shoulder the immense responsibility of the NGO. Through his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, JRTC not only managed to pay off its significant debt but also reversed its decline, bringing the organization back from the brink of closure. His leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing JRTC and guiding it to its current standing as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the visually impaired.

Our journey has been one of continuous dedication, transforming lives through free vocational education, safe boarding, nutritious meals, clothing, and medical care. We believe in providing not just basic care, but the opportunity for every individual to learn, grow, and become self-sufficient.

Milestones of Impact and Empowerment 
Since our inception, JRTC has been a beacon of hope, enabling countless visually impaired individuals to lead dignified and independent lives. Our holistic approach and commitment to excellence have resulted in significant achievements:

Holistic Rehabilitation: We have successfully rehabilitated hundreds of visually impaired adults, equipping them with essential life skills, vocational training, and the confidence to navigate the world independently. Our comprehensive programs address physical, social, psychological, and vocational needs.
Skill Development and Employment: Our robust skill training programs, including computer literacy, Braille, music (vocal & instrumental), candle and agarbatti making, and handicrafts, have directly led to employment and self-employment opportunities. Many of our alumni are now financially independent, contributing meaningfully to society.

Athletic Excellence: JRTC has become a hub for visually impaired athletes. Our dedicated sports training, particularly in para-judo, has seen our students excel on national and international stages.
Jaydev Gorain, a testament to resilience, overcame a life-altering accident to become a national and international para-judo champion, securing over 15 medals. He represented India in World Championships and the Asian Games, and now proudly serves as a Clerk in the Income Tax Department in Gurugram. His journey from factory worker to national athlete and government employee is a powerful inspiration.
Our alumni have consistently brought pride to JRTC and India by participating and winning medals in major competitions.

Academic and Professional Success : Beyond vocational skills, we actively support students in pursuing formal education.
Devender Kumar completed his higher secondary and undergraduate degrees while at JRTC, ultimately achieving his dream of becoming a Clerk at Union Bank of India, a remarkable feat made possible by his perseverance and our continuous support, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chandan Kumar, despite a challenging start and lack of formal documentation, found his path at JRTC. He completed his 10th, 12th, graduation, and master’s degree, and is now employed at IDBI Bank, with a selection at Bank of India, highlighting the transformative power of accessible education and compassionate mentorship.

Entrepreneurial Initiatives: Our “Learning and Earning” philosophy empowers students to become entrepreneurs. The JRTC Musical Group performs at events, generating income for students, while Festive Stalls during Diwali enable direct sales of student-made candles. Our handicraft program ensures consistent income through the sale of meticulously crafted bags.

Social Integration : We actively support the social integration of our students, including sensitively assisting in arranging marriages among visually impaired individuals, fostering independent and supportive relationships.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our founder, the resilience forged through challenging times, and the unwavering commitment of our management committee, our inspiring teachers, and our resilient students, all powerfully stewarded by Shri Narender Sharma. We continue to evolve, with plans for future expandable training programs, ensuring that JRTC remains at the forefront of empowering visually impaired individuals for a brighter, independent future.