As they enter adulthood, obtaining a driver’s license is a milestone that many look forward to. However, getting a driver’s license might be extremely difficult for some people who have physical limitations. In a touching tale from Kerala, we follow the inspirational journey of 32-year-old Jilumol M. Thomas, a woman born without arms who, with the help of the state government, overcame all obstacles to fulfill her dream of becoming a driver.
Jilumol, who resides in the Idukki area and works as a graphic designer in Kochi, has always wanted to be a foot driver. Even with her best efforts, she was first prevented from getting a driver’s license by the laws as they were written. Her original request was turned down five years ago due to technological issues. Jilumol, unfazed, turned to the state commission for people with disabilities, initiating an incredible journey.
The state transport commissioner was instructed to find a workable solution by the commission, which acknowledged the importance of Jilumol’s situation and took action. Officers from the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) in the Ernakulam district were tasked with carefully examining the situation and suggesting changes that would enable Jilumol to drive
Following a thorough evaluation, MVD officials suggested certain modifications to a 2018 Celerio hatchback model, allowing Jilumol to use her feet to handle the majority of the controls. Furthermore, speech recognition technology was integrated to turn on and off little functions. Even though it was difficult to locate local companies that could do these changes, the MVD worked with professionals and was able to effectively personalize the car in less than a year.
The MVD carried out extensive examinations after the modifications to make sure the vehicle complied with safety regulations for public roads. Jilumol achieved success in passing the learner’s permit in March and the driving test in November while driving her modified Maruti Celerio. The car was classed by the MVD as an Adapted Class vehicle, which was the last step in Jilumol’s six-year journey to become a licensed driver.
This remarkable accomplishment highlights the teamwork of the Kerala MVD and demonstrates Jilumol’s resiliency. The department, which is frequently in the news for fining people for making unauthorized changes, showed compassion and commitment in bringing Jilumol’s dream to life. Jilumol may be the first person in India to receive a driver’s license with such adaptive changes since the Chief Minister of Kerala personally gave her the license.
As Jilumol hits the road, her success story inspires others and makes it possible for more people with physical limitations to realize their dream of becoming lawfully licensed drivers. The Kerala MVD’s supporting approach is a prime example of how inclusiveness and proactive steps may positively impact the lives of people with disabilities who are trying to overcome obstacles.
