Disabled Shiba becomes self-reliant by running shop

By Nisha Rai,Dharan, Apr. 27: Twenty-eight-year-old Binod Shiba of Deurali in Dharan Sub-metropolitan City-5 has been a model for many.   

Despite facing physical disabilities, he sustains himself by running a small business, prioritising self-reliance and dignity over dependency on charity.

Born with limited mobility in his hands and feet, as well as speech issues, his determined spirit has led Shiba to pursue entrepreneurship instead of relying on charity.

His journey to self-reliance began seven years ago when he decided to open a small shop on the premises of Deghi Ghantaghar in Dharan. 

Refusing to rely on family for livelihood, he embarked on a path of self-reliance, setting an example for others facing similar challenges.

At a time, when even able-bodied individuals tend to beg for livelihood under various pretexts, Shiba has set an example by upholding the principle of maintaining self-respect.

Despite his physical limitations, he chose to earn his livelihood independently, without burdening his family. He said that he started his business, albeit small, from the disability allowance provided by the Nepal government.

His small shop offers a variety of everyday items, attracting customers who appreciate his dedication. Shiba said by vending goods on the roadside, he earns between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 3,000 a day. After deducting the cost of the goods, he manages to cover his expenses.

He expressed his gratitude for the municipality’s discount and exemption from taxes, which added to his happiness. He said that due to his physical disability, his family members assist him by transporting both him and his goods to the market daily. Additionally, they help him return home in the evening. 

He said, “I can achieve something for myself with the support of my family.”

According to Shiba, he is living with his two brothers. He informed that he lost his parents some 15 years ago and recently he lost his brother.  

Shiba said that despite living with his brothers, he was capable of earning for himself. 

With the monthly disability allowance of Rs. 4,000 provided by the Nepal government, he finds it manageable to sustain his livelihood, he added. 

“I never thought to beg for food, even in the face of my disability. Instead, I believed that I should endeavour to do something meaningful, no matter how challenging the circumstances are,” he said. He mentioned that his shop offers items which cost from Rs.10 to Rs.100, including pens. His brothers manage everything in his shop while he sells the goods. 

Despite his disability, he had a desire for education. So he learned basic reading and maths at home with his brothers, he added. 

Raj Bahadur Rai, a local, commended Shiba’s initiative, emphasising the importance of dignified work over dependency.

Shiba’s perseverance has garnered widespread admiration, with many individuals extending their support by purchasing goods from his shop. 

Despite enduring societal prejudice initially, Shiba’s entrepreneurial success has earned him respect and encouragement from his community.

His journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, demonstrating that with perseverance and self-belief, one can achieve self-sufficiency and dignity.

In Dharan Sub-metropolitan city, Shiba is among the 14,750 individuals receiving various allowances under the social security programme.