Award-winning activist fights for rights of Divyangs

Inderjit Nandan, a writer, disability activist and professional accountant from Hoshiarpur, stands out as a beacon of courage and service. Despite being affected by polio at a young age and facing lifelong physical challenges, she has made significant contributions to literature and the welfare of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in Punjab. Her tireless efforts earned her the National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in 2018.

Born in the small village of Nandan on the Hoshiarpur-Una road, Inderjit contracted polio at two and a half, which impacted her legs and speech. Though she never walked without support, her mother, a teacher, ensured she received the best education possible. “My mother was my first support system,” says Inderjit. “She carried me to school every day and gave me the strength to face the world.”

Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and enduring physical pain during her school years, Inderjit excelled academically.

She topped her block in Class V while her legs were in plaster for 45 days, scored 80 per cent in matriculation, completed a B.Com from SD College Hoshiarpur and earned a Master’s degree in Economics in 1997.

During college, she began writing poetry. Her debut book, Disshaddeyan Ton Parr (2002), was incorporated into Delhi University’s syllabus. Over the years, she authored eight books, including Shaheed Bhagat Singh Anthak Jeevan Gatha, Yashodhara, and Mook-Samvad.

Recognised with awards such as the Sanskriti Award (2008) and Punjabi Sahitya Academy Award (2014), she generously donated her award money for the treatment of a poor cobbler’s son. “I never allowed pain or pity to define me,” she shares. “Writing gave me a voice and purpose.”

Since 1997, Inderjit has actively worked for the welfare of PwDs. She played a crucial role in making polling booths accessible during the 2017 and 2019 elections and helped launch Punjab’s “Divyangan Da Satkar” programme.

She has organised awareness camps, distributed assistive aids, and assisted over 1,700 PwDs in obtaining government benefits.

Inderjit founded the Divyang Kala Sahit Te Sabheyacharak Manch (Punjab), a unique platform to showcase the talents of persons with disabilities. Additionally, she formed a women’s self-help group and established the Rishi Foundation to support education, health, and employment initiatives.

Professionally, as an accountant, she has guided farmers and students, helped form financial projects and trained others. Even after a major leg surgery in 2012, she ensured all client balance sheets were finalised before deadlines.

“My body may or may not,” Inderjit says with a smile, “but my spirit walks miles every day.” Today, she continues to inspire and serve countless people across Punjab and beyond through her writing, activism, and dedication to empowering PwDs.