Empowering Visually Impaired Lives Since 1952
The National Association for the Blind (India) is a leading non-governmental organisation dedicated to the welfare, education, training, and rehabilitation of persons with visual impairments. Founded on the principles of inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunity, NAB has worked tirelessly for over seven decades to empower individuals with visual disabilities across India.
Recipient of the National Award for Welfare of Persons with Disabilities
(Government of India, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment)
The Foundation of NAB India
The seed of the National Association for the Blind (India) was sown in 1947, when visionary leaders Mr. Mangulal Jethalal Sheth and Mr. B. G. Kher moved a resolution at the First All India Conference for the Blind held in Mumbai. This historic moment led to the formal establishment of NAB on 19th January 1952.
From its inception, NAB has focused on enabling visually impaired individuals through access to education, vocational skills, assistive technology, and employment opportunities. Through a strong nationwide network of branches and partnerships, NAB promotes inclusion, equal rights, and independent living for the blind and visually impaired.
The Beginning of NAB Kerala.
The Kerala State Branch of the National Association for the Blind was initiated by Late Benedict Mar Gregorios, then Archbishop of Trivandrum. NAB Kerala began functioning on 20th December 1962, inspired by a chance encounter at Trivandrum Airport with a visually impaired individual, Mr. Rajendra Vyas.
Moved by this interaction and learning about NAB India, Benedict Mar Gregorios laid the foundation for NAB Kerala, becoming its first Honorary President. The organization initially functioned from Shalom Buildings at the Archbishop’s Campus, Pattom, with the support of dedicated founding members.
Rehabilitation, Training & Independence
NAB Kerala is dedicated to the comprehensive rehabilitation and empowerment of visually impaired individuals and persons with disabilities across the state. The organization focuses on sensitization, education, skill development, and rehabilitation to help individuals integrate into mainstream society with dignity and independence.
Our Services Include:
-Support for Persons with Multiple Disabilities
-Community-Based Rehabilitation
-Integrated Education for Children with Disabilities
-Vocational Training & Placement Support
-Low Vision Centres
-Mobility Training & Counseling
Training Hands, Enabling Minds, and Giving Voice to Potential
NAB Kerala’s empowerment initiatives bring together vocational skills, technological innovation, and inclusive media to remove barriers faced by the visually impaired. This integrated approach nurtures economic independence, digital access, and self-expression, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Building Economic Independence
Vocational training is a cornerstone of NAB Kerala’s mission. The Vocational Training Centre provides hands-on skill development in areas such as furniture re-caning, envelope making, candle making, detergent production, home science, creative crafts, and computer operations.
Products created through these programs are marketed via NAB Kerala’s successful sales unit, “Home Need”, enabling trainees to gain real-world experience and financial independence.
Technology for Empowerment
NAB Kerala has been a pioneer in assistive technology initiatives. In 2002, Kerala’s first High-Tech Centre for the Blind was inaugurated, offering advanced tools such as screen-reading software, computerized Braille printing, and text-reading machines.
Over the years, the center has been upgraded with support from organizations including Amway Opportunity Foundation, Y’s Men International, and IBS Software, enabling hundreds of visually impaired students to access modern education and employment pathways.
Voices, Culture & Digital Inclusion
NAB Kerala actively promotes cultural expression and digital inclusion. Initiatives include:
- “The Voice of NAB Kerala” music troupe
- NAB Kerala’s YouTube channel “Drishyam NAB”
- Audio Recording Studio for textbooks, competitive exams, and PSC materials
- Digital dissemination through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Google Drive
These platforms ensure accessible information, creative expression, and community engagement for visually impaired individuals.
Our Support System
NAB Kerala is strengthened by the support of committed individuals and philanthropic organizations including Y’s Men International, Amway India, Care and Share Charitable Trust (USA), Asianet, IBS Software, Federal Bank Hormis Memorial Foundation, and others. Their continued support enables NAB Kerala to expand its reach and impact across the state.
Leadership Through the Years
Presidents:
- Archbishop Mar Gregorios (1962–1994)
- Archbishop Lawrence Mar Ephraem (1995–1996)
- Major Archbishop Mor Cyril Baselios Catholicos (1996-2007)
- Major Archbishop Mar Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos (2007– 2017)
- John Kurian (2017– Present)
General Secretaries:
- P. George (1986–2004)
- Josey Joseph (2004–2022)
- Er. J. Jayakumar (2022–Present) NAB History
A Legacy of Empowerment and Inclusion
For over six decades, NAB Kerala has stood as a beacon of hope, empowerment, and inclusion. Our journey continues as we strive to create a society where visually impaired individuals can live independently, confidently, and with dignity.
Discover the full story of our origins, growth, and contributions by viewing our detailed history document.