Postgraduate students of ophthalmology from Aravind Eye Hospital turned enterprising salespersons by engaging themselves in a service with a difference here on Wednesday.
As part of an initiative, Resident Social Responsibility, they helped 65 visually challenged women from Rehabilitation Centre for Blind Women in Mannarpuram, Tiruchi, in selling 40 products made by them. The doctors helped in the sale of products worth over ₹2 lakh.
They ranged from bed sheets, pillow cases, baskets, purses and towels to incense sticks, candles, nightwear and stationery products.
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The doctors patiently explained to the customers the different materials used in the products and engaged them in lively discussions. Five women also showcased their tailoring and basket weaving skills in a live demonstration.
N. Venkatesh Prajna, Director (Medical Education), who is also in charge of the residency programme, said visually impaired people usually found it difficult to sell even their quality ware, the reason why the doctors chipped in.
V. Devayanai, a trainer and member of the Rehabilitation Centre, said 65 members of the organisation worked extra hours ahead of the annual sale.
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“This is a good source of revenue for us. The doctors treated us as equals and participated in the sale with much enthusiasm,” she said.
Every year, this non-governmental organisation trains 50 visually challenged women aged between 18 and 35 years in vocational skills such as basket weaving, bedsheet making, purse making and tailoring.