POVERTY is a pressing issue around the world and India, as one of the most populous nations, grapples with a range of complex challenges that threaten the well-being and dignity of its citizens. This article sheds light on how India is addressing these challenges concerning water scarcity, abandoned elderly people without food, abandoned orphans and people with disabilities, on the important International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. These areas demand attention and concerted efforts to alleviate poverty and uplift the marginalized communities within the country.
1. Water scarcity
Water, often taken for granted in many parts of the world, is a precious resource that remains a significant concern for millions in India. The impact of water scarcity on poverty is multidimensional, affecting not only access to clean drinking water but also the agricultural sector, livelihoods and overall health. In rural areas of India, inadequate access to clean drinking water remains a significant challenge. People often have to walk long distances to fetch water, sometimes from unreliable sources. The lack of clean water leads to waterborne diseases, which put a considerable financial burden on impoverished families who have to allocate meager resources for medical treatment.
Efforts to address water scarcity and its effects on poverty in India are slowly gaining momentum. While progress has been made, challenges remain in reaching remote and marginalized communities. Karunalaya Social Welfare Foundation is on a mission to help over 30,000 villagers in Rajasthan get access to clean drinking water.
The NGO helps and empowers local communities to manage and maintain their water sources. To support Karunalaya Social Welfare Foundation, you can donate here.
2. Abandoned elderly people without food
India’s traditional family structure has long been built on a strong support system for the elderly. However, rapid urbanization, changing family dynamics and economic pressures have left many elderly individuals abandoned and struggling to access basic necessities, including food and shelter. The problem of elderly abandonment and neglect is particularly pronounced in urban areas where the pace of life is faster, and family members may be compelled to relocate for work or other reasons. As a result, a growing number of elderly individuals are left without proper care and support.
However, societal attitudes and awareness regarding the rights and dignity of the elderly still require significant improvement. Advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and community-driven initiatives are crucial in addressing this aspect of poverty and social neglect. Organizations like Marathwada Navnirman Lokayat (Manavlok) have been at the forefront of efforts to address this issue. Through its Trupti Kitchen program, Manavlok provides 500 abandoned elderly people like Dattu with two nutritious meals a day. To support Manavlok, you can donate here.
3. Abandoned orphans
The issue of abandoned orphans is another poignant facet of poverty in India. Children who are abandoned or orphaned often face a life of hardship, without access to basic necessities like food, shelter, education and emotional support. Various factors contribute to the abandonment of children, including poverty, social stigmas, and family breakdowns. In the absence of a proper support system, these children may end up on the streets, exposed to abuse, exploitation, and the dangers of a life without adult care. To further alleviate this problem, it is essential to focus on preventive measures, such as improving access to healthcare, family planning, and socio-economic support to families facing extreme poverty.
Non-governmental organizations, government initiatives, and adoption agencies in India have made substantial strides in addressing this issue. The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, has put in place a legal framework to protect the rights and welfare of children, including those who are abandoned or orphaned. Give’s Mission: No Child Orphaned provides a family-like environment for these children, offering them a stable upbringing, education and life skills to help them break free from the cycle of poverty. To support Mission: No Child Orphaned, you can donate here.
4. People with disabilities
People with disabilities constitute a marginalized section of the population that often faces significant barriers to economic opportunities, education, and social inclusion. While India has made progress in recognizing the rights of persons with disabilities, many challenges persist. Employment opportunities for people with disabilities remain limited, leading to economic dependency and increased poverty. Educational institutions, public spaces and transportation systems often lack accessibility features, hindering their participation in various aspects of life. In addition to legal measures, there is a growing emphasis on changing societal attitudes toward disability. Public awareness campaigns, initiatives to make public spaces accessible, and programs to provide skill development and employment opportunities are essential in reducing poverty among people with disabilities.
Various organizations and initiatives are working toward improving the lives of people with disabilities in India. Mitti Cafe has been relentlessly fighting to free elderly from hunger and malnutrition through its Karuna Meals initiative. The Karuna Meals team, composed only of persons with disability has been able to cook and serve over 10 lakh meals. They have also distributed over 1 lakh packets of dry rations. To support Mitti Cafe, you can donate here.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty serves as a powerful reminder of the multifaceted challenges that individuals and communities in India face. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from government bodies, NGOs and society as a whole. By focusing on areas such as water scarcity, the abandonment of elderly individuals and orphans and the well-being of people with disabilities, India can take meaningful steps toward the eradication of poverty and the promotion of social justice and inclusivity. Only through collective action and sustained commitment can India hope to create a more equitable and poverty-free society for all its citizens.
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