The State Government and the Dehradun district administration have made claims regarding several improvements on the public welfare front. Initiatives have been taken in this regard, it is true, but have these been persisted with? What is being done to prevent slide-backs owing to poor planning and implementation, keeping long term goals in mind? Should a different approach be adopted instead of the government machinery taking responsibility for their everyday implementation and functioning?
One example is that of ‘rescue and rehabilitation’ of child beggars and ragpickers in the city. Despite repeated claims in this regard, they can still be seen in many parts of the city. It is extremely sad to witness this in the midst of the affluence visible everywhere. How does society even co-exist with such a situation in present day India? Surely a state that is so particular about its image should not allow children to go without basic education, nutrition and shelter.
Caring for these disadvantaged children is also important for society’s mental and spiritual wellbeing, because affluence without empathy eventually leads to many fractures in the community. An example of this can be seen in the meltdown taking place presently in Nepal.
Dehradun must identify its resources in terms of community action, which can help shore up initiatives taken by the administration. For example, there are many retired servicemen as also government officials that have the time, resources, skills and experience in problem-solving. They should be motivated to provide the necessary support to the professionals involved in the task of rehabilitation at shelter homes, in the various bastis and other locations. They can also act as motivators for young volunteers in promoting social causes.
A beginning can be made by establishing ‘liaison’ or ‘action’ units in every locality which can be briefed on the social initiatives being taken by government. They can also be told about the role they can play in furthering these objectives. WhatsApp groups can be set up keeping them up to date on issues and the assistance required. At the very least, nutritious meals can be provided to such children wherever they are seen. Through such interventions, their specific problems can be identified and help provided accordingly. Their names, whose children they are, where they live can be noted so that government agencies can follow up. They can be introduced to innovative educational practices that provide the basics of literacy and mathematics. As the faujis are wont to say, ‘leave no one behind’.
