While clearing the Chartered Accountancy (CA) exam is never a cakewalk for aspirants, for Thane's Rushabh Kapasi, the task was even more daunting. Kapasi (24) suffers from almost 100% vision loss due to a birth defect. He was born with corneal opacity in both eyes. But determined as he was, Kapasi managed to clear his CA with help from his parents and a few readers. As he was not trained in Braille, study material had to be read out to him. He cleared both Group I and II in his third attempt in results declared on Monday.

His parents sat with him for over 10-12 hours each day for four months to read out notes. Kapasi has an exceptional academic track record. He has always scored above 80%.

Haresh Kapasi, his civil engineer father, said, "With the help of the National Association for the Blind, he continued to get interested readers and writers who helped him clear his education. In the last attempt in the CA exam, he did not take help from any reader as we helped him in his studies."

Rushabh aims to get into teaching. "In a few years he and his younger brother, who too is pursuing CA, can start their independent practice. My son wants people to take inspiration from him and we are willing to offer guidance to aspirants," said his father. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India officials were also helpful, he said.

Praffula Chhajed, vice-chairman, board of studies, ICAI, said the institute does not differentiate students based on disability but extends full support. (Times of India)