________________
The Brave Hearts
After passing Standard XII examination, he wanted to join a college for higher studies. But the financial condition of the family did not allow him to do so. He then decided to obtain a job. He finally got into the office of the Ahmedabad District Panchayat. His sincerity and honesty won him the best employee award of Government of Gujarat in 1981, which he received at the hands of the then Governer Shri Chandy. It is not often that such honour is bestowed on a physically challenged employee. He has neither received a memo nor any rebuke during his long tenure and this speaks volume for the sense of commitment of this government servant.
Apart from sprint events, he also won prizes in other sports events. In 1981, he won the silver medal in the hop stop and jump race in the All India sports meet organised in Ahmedabad for the physically challenge. He also won a gold medal in the long jump event in 1987 in a similar sports meet that was held in Delhi. He has also undergone training in mountaineering
The Himalayas always beacon him and has climbed the peaks four times. His wife is also physically challenged. He has a son Maulik and a daughter Maitri, both students. Chandubhai lends his services to the Society for the physically handicapped, Manav Seva Mandal, Apang Ekta Samiti and Apang Credit Society. He is the secretary of the Gujarat Branch of International Disability Helpline. The helpline provides guidance to the physically challenged. He also runs a centre for AIDS control in Nava Vadaj and has been contemplating a scheme to help the handicapped in villages of Gujarat. Chandulal Bhati has now become a role model for others.
128
