EMPOWERING THE CHILDREN

This photo-essay documents the challenges and the success stories of the non-profit, Development Action Society (DAS).

ABOUT DEVELOPMENT ACTION SOCIETY

Introduction:

Development Action Society (DAS) was established in 1989 with the motto of ‘development of underprivileged women and children, regardless of their race, creed or religion; changing their world with the right kind of opportunities’.

About the IPAP Project:

The IPAP Project aims to improve the status of the most socially excluded children living near the Dhapa dump-yard, in Eastern Kolkata. Most of the people in this area are rag-pickers, daily-wage laborers working in the dump, agriculturists and Kolkata Municipal Corporation workers. DAS is working hard to spread the stories of these underprivileged children and get them recognized institutionally by formal and informal structures.

Challenges:

1. These areas are deprived in terms of entitlements and services. Even the most basic government facilities like education and healthcare are inaccessible to the people living here.
2. No visibility of these areas in terms of exclusion.

Success Stories:

1. DAS has been motivating a large number of children to go to school. Most of these children are first-generation literates.
2. The community people and stake holders are gradually becoming aware about Child Rights Issues and taking steps to protect children.

‘My children can earn more than that mid-day meal they provide at the school, if they work with me.’

Nanda Mandal, 40 years

‘I love school! I love studying!’

Nupur Mandal, 11 Years

ASSOCIATES