What you need to know

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The children we focus on are without exception and directly threatened or already affected by child poverty, child labor and exploitation as well as slavery and exclusion. Either because they have no access to alternatives, or have even already been born into such a life situation. 

Whether and to what extent their own situation is related to the officially abolished caste system, individual circumstances or the systems and conditions is initially irrelevant for those affected. For them, immediate results and sustainable perspectives that lead out of poverty, exploitation and child labor are decisive. But what exactly does child labor actually mean?

The definition of child labor according to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN 1989) is:
"A person under the age of 15 who is not allowed to go to school because he or she has to work." If this work is also harmful to health and exploitative, NGOs (citizens' groups) take action against it and can be supported by aid agencies. Conditions are particularly devastating in the carpet, textile, natural stone production and toy manufacturing industries. In the circle of these communities we aim to realize facilities such as kindergartens, schools and support services to help children and if possible also the parents to be able to help themselves in the long run. And to end the cycle of dependency, exploitation and hopelessness for as many people as possible.

THE 10 MOST
IMPORTANT CHILD
RIGHTS​​

The right to equal treatment and protection against discrimination regardless of religion, origin.

The right to a name and nationality
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The right to health

The right to education and training

The right to leisure, play and 

The right to be informed, to communicate, to be heard and to assemble

The right to privacy and to an education based on equality and peace

The right to immediate assistance in disasters and emergencies and to protection from cruelty, neglect, exploitation, and persecution

The right to a family, parental care, and a safe home
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The right to care in the event of disability

Causes
Understand more context

There is no one India. It is important to communicate the multiple obstacles faced by children affected by extreme poverty and those around them. This is because they often make a way out on their own, which is both viable and sustainable, virtually impossible. Causative background conditions are more complex and multi-layered than can be seen from the outside, without background information. This is why context in terms of facts, facets, contrasts and contradictions is so important. To create an awareness that leads to a realistic, comprehensive view of things. And, via that, to measures and paths that make it possible to help many children and families overcome these obstacles in the long term.​

Main causes of
the contrasts and
contradictions  

The Indian society is incredibly diverse and complex, encompassing a wide range of contrasts and contradictions. Here are some notable contrasts and contradictions, which showcase the complex nature of Indian society, where a multitude of factors, from history to globalization, shape the way people live, interact, and progress.

Traditional vs. Modern: India is a land where ancient traditions and modern influences coexist. While many people still adhere to traditional practices, there's a growing urban population embracing modern lifestyles, technology, and values.

Rich vs. Poor: India has a significant wealth gap, with a small percentage of the population controlling a large portion of the wealth, while a large number of people live in poverty. This economic disparity is often starkly visible in urban areas.

Caste System: The caste system, deeply rooted in Indian society, dictates social roles and hierarchies. While it's officially abolished, its influence is still evident, especially in rural areas, affecting everything from marriage to employment opportunities.

Gender Equality: India grapples with contradictions in terms of gender equality. While women have made significant strides in various fields, there are still pervasive issues like gender-based violence, unequal pay, and limited representation in positions of power.

Religious Diversity: India is home to a multitude of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and more. This diversity often leads to interfaith harmony, but occasionally religious tensions can flare up.

Urbanization and Rural Life: India's rapid urbanization has led to stark differences between urban and rural areas. Urban centers offer better infrastructure, education, and job opportunities, while rural areas often face challenges such as lack of basic amenities and limited access to quality education and healthcare.

Educational Disparities: While India boasts world-renowned institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), there's still a large portion of the population with limited access to quality education, particularly in rural regions.

Cultural Diversity: Each state in India has its own distinct culture, language, and traditions. This diversity is both a source of pride and a challenge in maintaining a unified national identity.

Technological Advancements and Digital Divide: India is experiencing rapid technological growth, yet there's a substantial digital divide between urban and rural areas, resulting in unequal access to information and opportunities.

Environmental Concerns: India faces the contrast between its rich natural heritage and pressing environmental issues like air and water pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

Family Values vs. Individualism: Indian society places a strong emphasis on family and community values, but the younger generation is increasingly embracing individualism and personal aspirations.

Political Pluralism: India is the world's largest democracy, boasting a vibrant political landscape with multiple parties and ideologies. However, it also faces challenges like corruption and lack of effective governance.

The deep need
of the north

Poverty is a significant challenge in both the northern and southern regions of India, albeit with some variations in terms of causes and manifestations. Here's an overview of Indian poverty in the North and South:

North India

The northern part of India, particularly the states in the Hindi heartland like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan, faces considerable poverty-related issues. Factors contributing to poverty in this region include:
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• High Population Density: States like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have some of the highest population densities in the country, leading to intense competition for resources and limited access to basic amenities.
• Lack of Education: Low literacy rates and inadequate educational infrastructure hinder human development and perpetuate the cycle of poverty.
• Unemployment: The mismatch between job opportunities and the available workforce often results in high rates of unemployment and underemployment.
•  Agricultural Dependence: Agriculture is a major occupation, but outdated farming practices, lack of irrigation facilities, and frequent weather uncertainties impact agricultural productivity and income.
• Social Inequality: Caste-based discrimination and social hierarchies persist, leading to unequal access to resources and opportunities.
• ​Healthcare Challenges: Limited access to quality healthcare services contributes to poor health outcomes and increased vulnerability to diseases.

South India 

While the southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have made significant strides in social and economic development, poverty still exists due to various factors:

• Urban-Rural Divide: Rapid urbanization in states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has led to an urban-rural divide, with urban centers enjoying better infrastructure and economic opportunities.
• Migration: Seasonal migration for labor, especially from states like Odisha and Jharkhand to states like Kerala, is driven by poverty, leading to challenges related to living conditions and social integration.
• ​Low-Wage Labor: Despite advancements, some regions still have a high prevalence of low-wage labor, particularly in the informal sector.
• Landlessness: In states like Kerala, landlessness and small landholdings continue to impact rural livelihoods.
• Education Gap: While education levels are generally higher, some marginalized communities in the South still struggle with access to quality education.
• Healthcare Access: Even though healthcare facilities are relatively better, remote areas and vulnerable populations can face challenges in accessing healthcare services. It's important to note that both regions have implemented poverty alleviation programs and social welfare initiatives, but the effectiveness of these measures can vary based on local conditions, governance, and implementation. Reducing poverty requires a multifaceted approach that addresses not only economic factors but also social inequalities, access to education and healthcare, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.