Physically challenged Rajesh Sarkar from Khowai district earns a livelihood by selling ice cream on a battery-operated tricycle, supporting his family with determination. His inspiring struggle has prompted villagers to seek disability pension and stronger government assistance for his sustainable future.
The inspiring story of Rajesh Sarkar, a 31-year-old physically challenged resident of Madhya Krishnapur Ambagan under Teliamura block in Tripura’s Khowai district, has become a symbol of determination and self-respect as he continues to earn his livelihood by selling ice cream on a battery-operated tricycle.
For the past four years, Sarkar has been living with a physical disability after suffering from a serious illness. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, he has refused to let adversity define his life. Every day, he travels across villages in and around the Kalyanpur area, selling ice cream to support his family of five, which includes his elderly parents, brother, sister and himself.
Speaking to reporters at Ghilatali in Kalyanpur, Sarkar said his greatest desire is to earn a living through honest work rather than depend on charity or public sympathy.
“I want to work and earn my living. I do not want to beg. But if I receive a regular government allowance or some permanent support, it will help me take better care of my family,” he said.
Rajesh explained that his daily earnings depend entirely on customer demand. While some days provide enough income to meet household expenses, there are also days when he returns home with very little or no earnings at all. Nevertheless, he continues his work without complaint, travelling under the scorching summer sun and even during heavy rainfall because he has no other source of income.
Although Sarkar has been officially recognised as a person with disability, he said he has yet to receive any disability pension or regular financial assistance. However, he acknowledged the support he received in the form of a battery-operated tricycle provided by the government, which has become his primary means of mobility and livelihood.
The tricycle has enabled him to continue working independently, allowing him to reach remote villages where he sells ice cream to children and local residents. His determination has earned him admiration from people across the area.
Residents of Kalyanpur and nearby villages described Rajesh as an example of courage, perseverance and dignity. They said his refusal to depend on alms despite severe physical challenges reflects remarkable resilience and deserves wider recognition.
Villagers also appealed to the authorities to ensure that Sarkar receives disability pension and other welfare benefits available under government schemes. They stressed that individuals like him, who strive to remain self-reliant despite physical limitations, should receive timely institutional support to strengthen their livelihoods.
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Rajesh Sarkar’s journey serves as a reminder that dignity lies in honest work, and with adequate government assistance, people with disabilities can continue contributing to society while living with independence and self-respect.
