1. This is first time you are in one to one contact with children not going to school.   You talked to tribal children, waste picking children, hunting children and children who are going for work. How are you feeling? 

Ram> I was very happy for the opportunity to meet and talk to them but felt really sad understanding their plight. There is so much innocence and glimmer of hope in their eyes and for no fault of theirs, they are subjected to unfortunate circumstances and staring at bleak future. It is the responsibility of the government and the society as well, to provide them with proper education and support they deserve.

2. You have seen a drunken young mother segregating waste in dark house.
You entered the small hut a family of five living. What is your message to that mother and children? 

Ram> it was really a harrowing experience for me. While not surprised as I am aware of such conditions exist, but seeing it in person was truly eye opening. The extreme inequality in the country and the amount of ignorance due to lack of education and support system to help need to be addressed - individuals can only help to some extent but there should be committed and honest effort in bringing right policies to alleviate poverty addressing the root causes.

3. There are some communities living with no access to water, electricity and school. Some families live in dumping yards. Child rights are violated. It seems like they live like primitives in the heart of the city. Children are subjected to drug abusers and exploited in all ways. 

Ram> it is a very tragic and frustrating situation.  There are many marginalized nomadic communities living in dire, squalid conditions in the fringes of the society. Children are the biggest victims exploited and abused even by their own parents.  Many don’t even have Aadhar, Caste and Birth Certificates to avail gov schemes (people of no country).  There are Chenchu, Yanadi, Erukala etc tribes - they are rat/squirrel/bird hunters, rag pickers, scavengers, beggars we see and just ignore as if they don’t exist or matter. Hope the officials come up with a solution and establish a channel to streamline and register them quickly without red tape and corruption.

4. What is your message to public about this kindof children?

Ram> Every child deserves the opportunities and access to quality education to become a successful individual when they grow up.   These children, not only they don’t have proper study environment at home but also facing very discouraging and stressful situations. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that no child is left behind but sadly falling short in reality.  I sincerely hope civil society recognizes the gravity of the situation and comes forward to extend all the help these children need. 

5. What do you say about adarsha education centres/ ms Jones?

Ram> Ms. Jones garu is a truly inspiring person tirelessly addressing the needs of the children in marginalized communities through Adarsha education centers by not only providing after school tuition and counseling but also looking after their needs and educating parents as well.  No one else I am aware of is providing such support.  Hats off to her for moving forward with compassion and commitment despite facing many financial and operational challenges besides lack of government support and pushback from the abusive, impoverished parents.  I sincerely hope every one comes forward and support her noble mission in every possible way.