In the desolate and drought prone areas of Maharashtra, farmer suicides have become a painfully reality. Although the issue gets sporadic coverage in newspapers the extent of the problem is rarely highlighted. But behind this lies an even graver issue, the silent crisis of those left behind after a farmer dies by suicide.
The issue of farmer suicides has far-reaching consequences, especially for innocent orphaned children. As farmers succumb to the burden of debt and poverty, their children are left without caregivers, forcing them into a life of struggle, despair, and in most cases child labour. This vicious cycle of generational poverty continues unchecked, making it difficult for these children to ever break free and fulfil their dreams.
Ashok Deshmane, the son of a farmer himself, has made it his life’s mission to free children impacted by farmer suicides from the clutches of child labour and give them the upbringing every child deserves. He fought through extreme poverty as a child and built a career in information technology after completing his education. He was devastated to see the starving orphans of farmer suicides when visiting his village in 2015 and made the decision to adopt 18 kids. He started an NGO named Snehwan and since then has been a father to hundreds of needy children.
A childhood denied
For orphans, childhood isn’t filled with games or school, it’s overshadowed by responsibilities that snatch away their innocence prematurely. Their dreams, bright and hopeful, are dimmed by the lack of proper education. The key to breaking the chains of generational poverty — education — remains inaccessible to them. And without it, their dreams seem distant, almost unreachable. This is where Snehwan steps in, filling a crucial gap and restoring hope.
Harsh reality of child labour
Without the protective embrace of a guardian, these children’s vulnerability is heightened. Many of the orphans of farmer suicides end up toiling in dangerous factories, construction sites or enduring grueling hours painful work in fields. This harsh labour doesn’t just rob them of their rights but deeply affects their physical health and emotional well-being. Ashok has resolved to end the suffering of children who are pushed into exploitative labour for no fault of theirs.
Living with emotional wounds
The psychological aftermath of losing parents to suicide imprints indelible scars on their young hearts. Such traumatic events at such formative years can usher in a spectrum of emotional challenges that affect their self-worth, mental health, and social dynamics. Ashok has not merely given safe shelter and education to children but has given these orphans a father and a family. Ashok and his wife Archana have taken full responsibility of these children as their own.
Snehwan’s role in ending suffering
Snehwan depends entirely on public funds to be able to provide care and nutrition for children. Through their fundraising campaigns and online fundraising initiatives, they provide essential financial and emotional support to the children of deceased farmers. They also champion the cause of ensuring that these children receive quality education, which is a vital tool to elevate them out of their dire circumstances.
The anguish endured by the orphaned children of farmer suicides is not just an isolated issue but a societal concern that needs immediate and holistic action. Through organisations like Snehwan and their relentless efforts, these children can envision a future liberated from the oppressive weight of generational poverty. By addressing the core reasons behind farmer suicides, standing by the grieving families, and empowering the next generation with education and emotional tools, we can construct a nurturing environment for them. This brighter future is possible with combined efforts, ensuring that we appreciate our farmers and safeguard the innocent children affected by this heart-wrenching predicament. To support Ashok and Snehwan:
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Choosing to tread the proverbial road less travelled, Ramon embarked upon a career in journalism and spent over 8 years working for various media organisations. A deeper calling to create a sustainable impact in the lives of the less fortunate compelled him to join the social sector. Ramon is a minimalist at heart and an explorer in spirit.
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