INTRODUCTION

Life in slums can be a challenging experience for those who live there. Slums are overcrowded
and informal settlements that lack basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and proper
housing. Despite these difficulties, however, many people choose to call slums their home and
make the most of their difficult circumstances.

Poverty Is The Signature Of Every Slum

One of the most pressing problems faced by slum dwellers is poverty. Many people who live in
slums do so because they cannot afford to live anywhere else. They may be refugees, migrants,
or simply people who have fallen on hard times and are struggling to make ends meet. As a
result, they are often forced to live in cramped and unsanitary conditions, which can have a
significant impact on their health and well-being.

Life in a slum: Ugly face of India

While India’s economy continues to boom since the last so many decades and Swachh Bharat
Abhiyaan (Clean India Mission) entering into second year, it’s 360 million poorest citizens
remain among those living in some of the most dilapidated conditions in the world. The slums
have become the indispensable and dark side of our country, which we can’t boast of.

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Slum can be defined as ‘A residential area where dwellings are unfit for human habitation by
reasons of dilapidation, overcrowding, lack of ventilation or sanitation facility and having
drinking water facilities in unhygienic conditions’.

It’s so ironical that Delhi’s slums (like all over India) are the abode of lakhs of people whose
work makes the lives of its better-off citizens easier and comfortable but they themselves are
forced to live in worst of conditions. They don’t even have access to a basic need like functional
toilets, breeding indignity and infections in their daily lives. As Katherine Boo unfolds the dark
belly in “Behind the Beautiful Forevers”, life in an urban slum can be full of squalor and
deprivations.

The story "Lost Spring" by Anees Jung sheds light on the harsh realities of life in a slum, as seen
through the eyes of a young boy and a girl. Set in the heart of India, the story delves into the
struggles and hardships faced by those living in poverty. The author vividly portrays the
atmosphere of the slum, revealing the day-to-day challenges of its inhabitants and the impact has
on their lives.

Life in a slum is a stark contrast to the affluence and comfort enjoyed in other parts of the city.
The lack of basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and proper housing makes everyday
life a constant battle for survival. The children living in the slum are often deprived of the joys
and opportunities that other kids take for granted. Instead of attending school, they are forced to
work in order to contribute to their family's meager income. The story depicts how the young
boy, Saheb, spends his days rag-picking to make ends meet, while the girl, Mukesh, is unable to
attend school due to her family's financial constraints.

The author's portrayal of the social hierarchy within the slum sheds light on the inequality and
discrimination faced by its inhabitants. The cast-off items found in the garbage bins become a

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means of survival for some, as Saheb and his family scavenge for anything that can be sold to
earn a few rupees. In contrast, Mukesh's family runs a small business selling discarded bangles,
further highlighting the harsh realities of life in the slum.

The lack of opportunities and resources in the slum perpetuates a cycle of poverty, making it
difficult for the inhabitants to break free from its grip. The absence of proper education and
healthcare further exacerbates their plight, leaving them trapped in a seemingly endless struggle
for survival. Despite these challenges, the resilience and determination of the people in the slum
is evident in their daily struggles to make the most of their circumstances.

The story "Lost Spring" serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by those living
in poverty, and the urgent need for social and economic reforms to uplift their lives. It highlights
the importance of addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, and providing avenues
for educational and economic empowerment to break the cycle of deprivation. It also serves as a
call to action to recognize and uplift the marginalized communities, and to work towards creating
a more equitable society.

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 RESEARCH AND CASE STUDY OF A SLUM
In the present scenario, with the growth in the population, one out of every five Indians are
‘below poverty line’ which means that their income is below $1.9 per day. Slums are highly
populated residential areas which is closely packed with shanty houses, narrow passages,
degraded sanitary conditions, lack of privacy and absence of basic necessity like clean drinking
water, electricity, drainage systems, schools and health care facilities.

The socio-economic perspective defines the behaviour of people towards their property. This
describes the importance an individual give to their living surroundings. In developing countries,
where the population keeps growing, it is noticed that individual make their residential choices
based on their economic backgrounds and stability. Most of these buildings can be maintained
with a proper system of sanitation and drainage only when the residents co-operate with the
government. This becomes more difficult.

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The major causes of formation of the slum were:

1. Urbanization: rapid city growth, migration.

2. Poverty and lack of affordable housing

3. Limited access to education and employment

4. Government policies and lack of regulation

5. Natural disasters and conflicts.

In slums they were overcrowding and poor living conditions, Limited access to basic services
(water, sanitation, healthcare), Informal economy and lack of formal employment, High crime
rates and social unrest, Poor infrastructure and lack of maintenance. There were also too much
social issues in slums like health problems (malnutrition, disease), Education challenges (access,
quality), Violence and crime (gangs, domestic abuse), Substance abuse and addiction, Social
exclusion and stigma, etc.

Some of the impacts of these challenges on residents were:

1. Physical health: malnutrition, disease

2. Mental health: stress, anxiety, depression

3. Economic instability: poverty, unemployment

4. Social mobility: limited opportunities

5. Human rights: violations, exploitation

Few economic issues were unemployment and underemployment, Informal economy and lack of
financial stability, Limited access to credit and financial services, High costs of living and
poverty, Dependence on external aid. To avoid these kind of worse situations, I innovative
Solutions should be taken .

1. Community-led upgrading: resident-driven initiatives

2. Affordable housing: government-subsidized programs

3. Slum rehabilitation: redevelopment projects

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4. Microfinance: small loans for entrepreneurship

5. Education and skills training: vocational programs

6. Healthcare services: mobile clinics, community health workers.

Government also should take initiatives like,

1. Slum clearance policies: relocation, redevelopment

2. Affordable housing programs: subsidies, loans

3. Urban planning: inclusive, participatory approaches

4. Social services: healthcare, education, social welfare

5. Economic empowerment: job training, microfinance.

Some of the international organization for slums were,

1. UN-Habitat: urban development, slum upgrading

2. World Bank: funding, policy support

3. WHO: health services, sanitation

4. UNICEF: education, child protection

Some of the successful stories of few slums were:-

Medellín, Colombia: Urban Renewal and Social Programs

➢ Transformation of Comuna 13: once one of Medellín's most violent slums, now a vibrant
cultural hub.
➢ Cable car system: connects slums to city center, improving access to services and
opportunities.
➢ Library parks: community centers offering education, cultural activities, and social
services.
➢ Urban agriculture: initiatives promoting food security and community engagement.
➢ Results: reduced violence, improved education and healthcare, increased economic
opportunities.

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Singapore: Public Housing and Urban Planning

➢ Housing Development Board (HDB): provides affordable housing to 80% of population.

➢ Urban planning: efficient, inclusive design ensures access to services and amenities.
➢ Upgrading programs: regular renovations and upgrades to existing housing.
➢ Community programs: resident engagement, social services, and community activities.
➢ Results: near-zero poverty rate, high standard of living, and cohesive communities

Nairobi, Kenya: Community-Led Upgrading

➢ Mukuru slum: community-driven upgrading initiatives improved sanitation, water, and

housing.
➢ Community Land Trust (CLT): secure land tenure for residents, protecting against
eviction.
➢ Partnering with government: collaborative approach to infrastructure development.
➢ Results: improved living conditions, increased security, and community empowerment.

Mumbai, India: Slum Rehabilitation

➢ Dharavi Redevelopment Project: in-situ upgrading and relocation of residents.

➢ Community participation: resident involvement in planning and decision-making.
➢ Affordable housing: subsidized units for low-income families.
➢ Results: improved housing conditions, increased access to services, and reduced poverty.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Favela Upgrading

➢ Pacifying Police Units (UPPs): community-based security initiatives.

➢ Favela-Bairro program: upgrading infrastructure, housing, and services.
➢ Community engagement: participatory budgeting, social programs.
➢ Results: reduced violence, improved public services, and increased economic
opportunities.

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Key factors contributing the success were Community engagement and participation,
Collaborative governance (government, NGOs, private sector), Inclusive urban planning and
design, Access to affordable housing and services, Economic empowerment and job
opportunities, Social programs and community development initiatives, Innovative technologies
and solutions.

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 LIFE OF PEOPLE IN SLUM

‘A MAN BORN POOR MOST OFTEN DIES ALSO AS A POOR MAN’

This is the common quote that we hear when we talk about the people in the slum. Life in slums
can be a challenging experience for those who live there. Slums are overcrowded and informal
settlements that lack basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and proper housing. Despite
these difficulties, however, many people choose to call slums their home and make the most of
their difficult circumstances.
Poverty Is The Signature Of Every Slum:
One of the most pressing problems faced by slum dwellers is poverty. Many people who live in
slums do so because they cannot afford to live anywhere else. They may be refugees, migrants,
or simply people who have fallen on hard times and are struggling to make ends meet. As a
result, they are often forced to live in cramped and unsanitary conditions, which can have a
significant impact on their health and well-being.
Lack Of Access To Clean Water: Lack of access to clean water is another major issue faced
by slum dwellers. In many cases, water sources are contaminated, leading to a high risk of
waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Additionally, slum dwellers often lack access
to proper sanitation facilities, leading to the spread of disease and poor hygiene.

Housing Is A Major Problem For Slums: Housing is another major concern in slums. Many
homes are made of makeshift materials, such as cardboard and tin, and offer little protection
from the elements. The proximity of homes and lack of proper ventilation also lead to poor air
quality, which can have serious health implications.

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Additionally, many slum dwellers are at risk of eviction, as the land they live on is often owned
by others who may wish to develop it for other purposes.

Adapting To Meet The Challenges:

Despite these difficulties, life in slums is not all bleak. There is often a strong sense of
community among slum dwellers, who support each other in times of need. People who live in
slums may also be resourceful and resilient, making the most of their circumstances and adapting
to the challenges they face. For example, many slum dwellers create their informal markets,
where they can sell goods and services to one another, and engage in entrepreneurship to
generate income and improve their lives.
Basic Education With Bare Necessities Only:
Education is also a key aspect of life in slums. Despite limited resources, many slum dwellers
place a high value on education and work hard to ensure that their children receive an education.
Some slums have informal schools, which are run by local community members and offer basic
education to children who might otherwise miss out.
Overcrowding and High Density:
Overcrowding has been associated with a low space per person living in an area, high
occupancy rates, cohabitation by different families and a high number of single-room units.

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Mostly slum-dwelling units are overcrowded, with five to six and more persons sharing a one-
room unit used for cooking, sleeping and living.

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Role of Government And NGOs Do Their Best To Improve Slums:
In recent years, there have been efforts to improve the lives of slum dwellers and address some of
the challenges they face. For example, some governments have implemented programs to
provide basic services such as clean water and sanitation to slum communities. Non-government
organisations (NGOs) and international organisations have also been working to improve the

lives of slum dwellers through initiatives such as providing access to education, health care, and
income-generating opportunities.

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 EDUCATION IN SLUM

CHALLENGES AND ISSUES

Education is an opportunity through which society and its people are empowered. It is a tool for
economic advancements. Education aids in the social, emotional, and psychological growth of
individuals and hence, the community as a whole. Education plays an important role in uplifting
the socioeconomic status of a society. Lack of education accompanied with extreme poverty
often leads to pathetic conditions of the people which can be commonly seen in the urban
neighbourhoods in the form of slums.
Reasons for lack of education:

Enrolling in school itself becomes the first barrier, as many lack birth certificates and proper
registration documents. Girls are encouraged by parents to drop out in order to help at home, to
take care of their siblings, or to get married early. Parents do not see the value of letting girls
complete their education, and to get employed. This leaves children vulnerable to child labour,
abuse and violence. Without Skills and self-confidence. These children are trapped into lives of
low paid manual work.

The most common reasons given for dropping out are:

• Lack of interest in their studies

• Cost of education and family pressures.
• Many parents have little education themselves.
• Financial difficulties.
• Service charge for private education that was previously common in slum regions has
risen and now serves “low-income” families’ needs.

Problems in Education of Slum Children:

The Right to Education Act 2009 was expected to bring a huge surge of enrolment in urban and
rural schools. However, after more than a decade there are millions of children who are out of
school in India, most live in urban slums and remote rural areas. A higher proportion of girl
children (3.23%) are out of school than boys (2.77%). Girls in slums and rural areas are out of
school as they are engaged in domestic work or do not go to school to take care of the younger

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siblings. Boys drop out of school to supplement household incomes. Lack of healthcare facilities,
absence of toilets in schools, and lack of proper nutrition also lead to an increase in drop-out
rates.

Focusing on Girl Child and Women Education The cycle of illiteracy will continue if proper
steps are not taken in time to reduce drop-out rates, increase enrolment and encourage girl child
education and slum children’s education. Mother is a child’s first teacher. When mothers remain
uneducated, they cannot fully comprehend the value of education for their children. Children of
educated mothers have better access to education, proper nutrition, and timely healthcare needs
like timely immunization against various diseases.
Importance of education in slum:
Educating the child group of semi-skilled and unskilled workers is an urgent requirement.
Education is an important component of the development of human resources and is necessary
for the country’s economic success. All the key indicators of socioeconomic development include
the economy’s growth rate, fertility rate, fatality rate, infant mortality, and literacy rate.
Everything is interrelated.

Only the literacy rate has historically been the major predictor of the other indicators’ increase or
decline. Recognizing this reality has raised awareness about the need to focus on literacy and
primary education, not just for social fairness but also to promote economic growth, societal
well-being, and societal cohesion.

Slum Children in India:

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According to the Census 2011, there are 13.7 million slum households across 63% of India’s
towns. The residents of these households include migrants, half of them being among the poorest
of the poor. More than eight million children under 6 years live in approximately 49,000 slums.
There are 22.72 million children (age group 5-18) living in urban slums who are out of school.
The migrant population in India is mostly illiterate and constantly on the move, in search of new
livelihood opportunities.

Migrant children move with their parents and often lose out on age-appropriate educational
opportunities. Often they engage in labour to escape poverty and support their parents. Access to
early childhood care, balanced nutrition, education, health, and recreational facilities are keys to
the positive development of children. However, in places where clean drinking water and two
square meals are a struggle, slum children’s education, health and other contributing factors for
development will always take a backseat.
Unemployment and informal economy:
Due to lack of skills and education as well as competitive job markets, many slum dwellers face
high rates of unemployment. The limit of job opportunities causes many of them to employ
themselves in the informal economy, inside the slum or in developed urban areas near the slum.
This can sometimes be licit informal economy or illicit informal economy without working
contract or any social security. Some of them are seeking jobs at the same time and some of those
will eventually find jobs in formal economies after gaining some professional skills in informal
sectors.

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act (or) Right to
Education Act (RTE):

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 Act of the Parliament of India enacted on 4 August 2009, which describes the modalities
of the importance of free and compulsory education for children between the age of 6 to 14 years
in India under Article 21A of the Indian Constitution.

Features:
 It guarantees free and compulsory education for all children aged 6 to 14. This is
irrespective of their caste, creed, or social status.
 The RTE Act mandates the establishment of neighbourhood schools. Every child
should have access to a school within a reasonable distance.
 The RTE Act prohibits schools from charging any capitation fee or screening students
for admission.
 The RTE Act mandates that 25% of seats in all private schools be reserved for children
from disadvantaged groups. This includes scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other
backward classes.
 The RTE Act prescribes a common curriculum for all schools so that all children can
access quality education.
 The RTE Act mandates that all teachers be trained and qualified
Achievements:

 The RTE’s greatest success was in enabling India to reach enrolment rates that were
nearly 100%. India has been able to develop its infrastructure after the RTE was put
into place in 2010.
 According to the Aser Centre’s Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), the only
source of data on children’s learning results in the nation, the percentage of schools
with usable girls’ restrooms doubled, reaching 66.4 percent in 2018.
 In 2018, there were 64.4 schools with boundary walls, an increase of 13.4 percentage
points from the previous year.
 From 82.1 to 91 percent of schools now have cooking sheds. Over the same time
period, the percentage of schools receiving books other than textbooks rose from 62.6
to 74.2 percent.

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17
 HEALTH AND INFRASTRUCTURE

India is one of the fastest developing countries with many metropolitan cities (eg Mumbai, Pune,
Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi and Chennai). Around 33% of the urban population in the
developing world in 2012 (or) about 863 million people lived in slums. India is a third world
country that suffers from malnutrition diseases, unhealthy conditions and more in Indian slums.

The slum area of Delhi specially Yamuna-Pushta are affected by flood water of Yamuna every
year. The kutcha houses of slum frequently catches fire in summer. The poor living conditions in
slums affects the health of people mentally and physically water contamination cause disease
like blood dysentery, diarrhea, malaria, typhoid, jaundice etc. Overcrowded living conditions and
inadequate sanitation facilities create an environment conducive to the spread of infectious
disease.

Every family in Firozabad is engaged in making bangles. It is the center of India’s glass blowing
industry where children spend long hours in the hot furnaces without light and air, often losing
the brightness of their eyes soon.

Poor water quality is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and a defining
danger of living in slums.

Health is the thing which cannot be compromised at any cost health is anyone’s top most priority
but due to our environment adversely affect our health.

The challenge of slums is the most comprehensive account of demographic and socioeconomic
indicators of slums worldwide. The determinates of slum health are too complex to be defined by
single parameter.

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 GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

Initiative Description
Slum Areas Act (1956) Aimed at upgrading and clearing slums in
Union Territories, empowering officials to
label areas as slums, explore improvement
options, or eradicate them.
National Slum Development Programme Offering loans and subsidies based on the
(NSDP) (1996) urban slum population to state governments
for slum redevelopment.
Valmiki Ambedkar Awas Yojana Targeted shelter provision for urban poor,
(VAMBAY) (2001). allocating a portion of funds to community
sanitation as part of the Nirmal Bharat
Abhiyan.
Slum Redevelopment Scheme (SRS) (1995) Introduced in Maharashtra, it encouraged
slum redevelopment by allowing private
developers to use public land, offering
incentives like TDR and FSI
Integrated Housing & Slum Development Combined NSDP and VAMBAY schemes
Programme (IHSDP) to offer adequate housing and infrastructure
to slum dwellers
Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) (2013) Integrated slums into formal systems to
provide basic amenities and addressed urban
land and housing shortages.
Smart City Mission Focused on basic amenities, education,
health, IT, e-governance, and sustainable
development for urban areas.

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Health in slums is a significant concern due to challenging living conditions, inadequate
infrastructure, and limited access to healthcare services. Here are some key issues and statistics:

Challenges:
1. Overcrowding and poor sanitation
2. Limited access to clean water and hygiene facilities
3. Inadequate waste management
4. Poor nutrition and food security
Common Health Issues:
1. Infectious diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia)
2. Respiratory problems (e.g., asthma, COPD)
3. Vector-borne diseases (e.g., malaria, dengue fever)
4. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies
5. Mental health disorders
Statistics:
1. One billion people live in slums worldwide (UN-Habitat, 2020)
2. Slum dwellers are 2-3 times more likely to contract infectious diseases (WHO, 2018)
3. 40% of urban residents in developing countries lack access to basic sanitation
(WHO/UNICEF, 2019)
4. Children in slums are 2-5 times more likely to die before age 5 (UNICEF, 2020)
Solutions:
1. Improve access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities
2. Enhance healthcare services and medical infrastructure
3. Promote community-led total sanitation (CLTS) initiatives
4. Support urban planning and slum upgrading programs
Infrastructure
Infrastructure in slums is often inadequate, leading to numerous challenges for residents.
Here are some key aspects.

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Physical Infrastructure:
1. Inadequate housing: overcrowding, poor construction, and lack of maintenance.
2. Limited access to clean water: scarcity, contamination, and poor distribution.
3. Insufficient sanitation: lack of toilets, poor sewage systems, and waste management.
4. Unreliable electricity: intermittent supply, illegal connections, and safety hazards.
Social Infrastructure:
1. Limited healthcare facilities: lack of clinics, hospitals, and medical staff.
2. Inadequate education: few schools, overcrowding, and poor resources.
3. Insufficient community spaces: lack of parks, playgrounds, and social centres.
4. Limited economic opportunities: few job prospects, low wages, and informal economy.
Key Statistics:
1. 60% of slum dwellers lack access to improved sanitation (WHO/UNICEF, 2019).
2. 40% of urban residents in developing countries lack access to clean water (WHO/UNICEF,
2019).
3. 25% of slum households have no electricity (UN-Habitat, 2020).
4. 50% of slum children are out of school (UNICEF, 2020).
Innovative Solutions:
1. Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) initiatives.
2. Decentralized wastewater treatment systems.
3. Solar-powered energy solutions.
4. Affordable housing programs.
5. Mobile healthcare clinic

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 ROLE OF YOUTH IN THE UPLIFTMENT OF THE WEAKER
SECTIONS OF THE SOCIETY

Anees Jung has tried to highlight the plight of life of poor people and the children who are
exploited either by their uneducated & poor, helpless parents and the society, who employ them
as child laborers.Youth empowerment can eradicate poverty from the country. The youth plays a
great role in nation-building. It also is responsible for bringing social reform within a country.
The youth of a country determine the future of a nation.
Mukesh belonged to a family of bangle makers but he was very different from the rest of the folk
there. His two most admirable qualities are his ambition and determination. His dream was to
become a motor mechanic even though his family had always been making bangles. Through
characters like Saheb-E-Alam, who scavenges in Delhi’s trash , finding small treasures like coins
or worn-out shoes, the author emphasizes the stark reality these children face .Their dreams
extend beyond their immediate needs—they aspire for education and a better life. Saheb and
Mukesh are representatives of the underprivileged and impoverished section of thesociety
playing a crucial role as youth in the upliftment of their society.

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Educating the child group of semi-skilled and unskilled workers is an urgent requirement.
Education is an important component of the development of human resources and is necessary
for the country’s economic success.

All the key indicators of socioeconomic development include the economy’s growth rate, fertility
rate, fatality rate, infant mortality, and literacy rate. Everything is interrelated.

Only the literacy rate has historically been the major predictor of the other indicators’ increase or
decline. Recognizing this reality has raised awareness about the need to focus on literacy and
primary education, not just for social fairness but also to promote economic growth, societal
well-being, and societal cohesion.

Slums in India have a low educational level. Various evaluations of slum regions suggest that
slightly more than half of the children attend school.

It also states that slum children have a significant over-age and dropout rate.

Late admission is caused by demand (migration from rural regions to slums) and supply (lack of
educational facilities for all children, short admission period, birth certificate need, etc.). One of
the primary reasons why children do not receive a basic education is also financial difficulties.

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Youth can contribute to society in many ways, including:

Advocacy

Youth can use their voices to speak out on issues they care about, raise awareness, and influence
policy.

Civic engagement

Youth can participate in civic and social activities to develop life skills, network, and exercise
citizenship.

Education

Youth can help improve literacy rates, which can help build a more educated and empowered
society.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship can drive social development, innovation, and economic growth.

Social justice

Youth can champion social justice causes, such as promoting equal job opportunities, affordable
housing, and healthcare access.

Technological change

Youth can use technology to reform governance by developing apps, websites, and platforms to
improve government services.

Social activities

Youth can participate in social programs, such as charity, public welfare, and cultural programs.

Mentoring

Youth can mentor others and become role models for them.

Volunteering

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Youth can volunteer their time to help those less fortunate than them or participate in activities
that benefit their community.

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Empowering the Future of Slum Youth

In today’s world, slums are a significant concern in developing nations, with poverty and
unemployment creating a cycle that is difficult to escape. Among those deeply affected are the
Unemployed Youth in Slums, who face limited opportunities for a better life. To break this
cycle, skill development programs have emerged as a lifeline, offering these young individuals
the chance to learn, grow, and contribute positively to society.

Challenges Faced by the Unemployed Youth in Slums

The Unemployed Youth in Slums face numerous obstacles that hinder their ability to secure jobs
or build meaningful careers. Limited access to quality education, vocational training, and proper
infrastructure are among the key barriers. Additionally, many youths in slums are forced into
informal labor or menial jobs, which neither offer job security nor growth potential, trapping
them in a cycle of poverty.

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 COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SLUM

The city of Delhi, a bustling metropolis and the capital of India, exhibits a contrasting landscape,
with pockets of affluence set against areas of urban deprivation. This study aspires to highlight
that facilities like education and healthcare can help the deprived sections of the population to
achieve higher living standards through social development and so it becomes important to note
the pattern of distribution of such facilities across slums

Schoolings

The attainability and quality of education play an major role in shaping the future of any
community, making government schools a crucial element in determining the overall
development of delhi’s slums and residential zones. To understand this difference the density of
government schools in a 250m circular buffer around the slums and residential areas demarcated
by the mpd is considered and compared. A distance of 250 meters has been considered for the
buffer areas as this can be considered as a walkable distance for the people living in these areas
regardless of their age.

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 Government hospitals

Through an examination of the density of hospitals in a 1 km buffer, the article draws attention
to the disparities in healthcare access at a broader scale than the other amenities due to the nature
of the utility of the facilities. It also highlights the urgent need for equitable healthcare
distribution across the city. Access to quality healthcare services is a fundamental right, yet it
remains an elusive privilege for many living in Delhi’s slum areas.

A total of 53 government hospitals lie inside the much bigger buffer of 1 km. Around the
identified slums with a total area of 2424.80 km. Sq., indicating a density of 0.021 hospitals per
km. Sq.

Bus Network

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By examining their proximity to bus stops, we aim to understand the challenges faced by slum
dwellers in accessing reliable public transportation. This analysis can provide valuable insights
into the transportation inequalities, and guide efforts to improve connectivity and mobility
options in underprivileged communities. A 500m buffer by on-road distance was generated
around each bus stop based on the road network extracted from Open Street Maps. The buffer
indicates all the areas in Delhi which are within 500m of a bus stop by road. 500m is chosen as
the buffer distance
can be covered with a 5 minute s walk on average.
.

There are several types of slums all over the world. Few were, Informal settlements: unplanned,
unauthorized housing, Squatter settlements: occupied land without permission, Shantytowns:
makeshift housing, often with poor conditions, Ghettoes: segregated, marginalized communities,
Peripheral slums: on city outskirts, often neglected.

Comparative indicators were

Demographic characteristics (age, gender, household size)

Housing quality (materials, space, tenure)

Infrastructure access (water, sanitation, energy)

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Economic indicators (income, employment, entrepreneurship)

Health outcomes (mortality, morbidity, nutrition)

Education access (literacy, enrolment, completion)

Governance and participation (local government, community engagement)

Environmental conditions (waste management, pollution).

Some of the familiar slums were listed here:

1. Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) - Favelas

2. Mumbai (India) - Dharavi

3. Nairobi (Kenya) - Kibera

4. Lagos (Nigeria) - Ajegunle

5. Manila (Philippines) - Tondo

6. Mexico City (Mexico) - Neza-Chalco-Iztapalapa

7. Johannesburg (South Africa) - Soweto

8. Bangkok (Thailand) - Khlong Toei

9. Jakarta (Indonesia) - Kampung Bukit Duri

10. Lima (Peru) - Villa El Salvador.

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Few policy interventions were Affordable housing programs, Slum upgrading initiatives,
Community-led development projects, Economic empowerment programs, Social protection
schemes, Urban planning and design interventions, Environmental improvement programs and
Governance and institutional reforms, should be assisted to slums.

Therefore future directions like Integrated urban planning and development, Community-driven
slum upgrading, Inclusive and equitable economic growth, Environmental sustainability and
climate resilience, Innovative technologies and solutions, Policy and institutional reforms,
International cooperation and knowledge sharing and Long-term monitoring and evaluation.

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 SLUMS OF YESTERDAY TURNED INTO CITIES TODAY
There are two main reasons why slums develop: population growth and governance. Countries
around the world are urbanising rapidly as more people migrate from rural areas to the cities and
natural population growth continues to occur.
The rural poor usually migrate into industrial cities in search of labor and better living facilities.
Although to the slum dwellers, their change in lifestyle may bring many advantages, they are
usually not viewed positively by the public.
By providing better living conditions, access to basic services, and economic opportunities, slum
development can contribute to poverty reduction and improved living standards.

In‘ Lost Spring’ the author describes the miserable life of the Children who are engaged in rag
picking. It makes people think of the children living in Indian Slums who live in the grinding
poverty and terrible conditions.This also makes readers think on development of slums to
cities.Better living conditions can enable slums to turn to cities with better access.

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Slums can develop into cities through a combination of factors, including:

Urbanization

The rapid growth of cities can lead to a shortage of housing and infrastructure, which can cause
people to settle in informal settlements.
Migration
People may move from rural areas to cities in search of better economic opportunities, which can
overwhelm the city's ability to provide housing and services.
Poverty
Poverty and unemployment can push people toward informal settlements.
Inadequate planning:
Poor urban planning and insufficient investment in infrastructure can contribute to the growth of
slums.

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 ACTS ON SLUM IMPROVEMENT

With effect from the date of the establishment of the Board, the State Housing Board shall cease
to exercise any function under the Tamil Nadu State Housing Board Act, 1961 (Tamil Nadu Act
XVII of 1961), in respect of matters dealt with in this Act and in particular, the improvement of
the slum area, the clearance of a slum area and the re-development of a slum clearance area
THE TAMIL NADU SLUM AREAS (IMPROVEMENT AND CLEARANCE) ACT, 1971

(Act No. 11 of 1971)

An Act to provide for the improvement and clearance of slums in the State of Tamil
Nadu.Whereas the number of slums in certain areas in the State of Tamil Nadu is on the increase
and the slums are likely to become a source of danger to public health and sanitation of the said
area.
And Whereas under the existing law, it has not been possible effectively to arrest the growth of
slums, to eliminate congestion and to provide for certain basic needs such as streets, water -
supply and drainage in slums and to clear slums which are unfit for human habitation.And
Whereas to obviate this difficulty, it is expedient to provide for the removal of unhygenic and
insanitary conditions prevailing in slums, for better accommodation and improved living
conditions for slum dwellers, for the promotion of public health generally and for the acquisition

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of land for the purpose of improving or developing slum areas, re – developing slum clearance
areas and rehabilitating slum dwellers:
And Whereas it is Directive principle of State Policy embodied in the constitution that the State
should regard the improvement of public health as among its primary duties.

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 ESSAY ON LIFE OF PEOPLE IN SLUMS
Life in Slums: An Overview
Life in slums presents a stark contrast to the urban environments surrounding them. Slums are
often characterized by overcrowded living conditions, inadequate infrastructure ,and limited
access to basic services. Understanding the dynamics of life in these communities involves
examining economic, social, and health-related aspects, as well as the resilience and creativity of
the residents.
Economic Challenges
The economic situation in slums is typically dire. Many residents work in the informal sector,
engaging in low-paying jobs without job security or benefits. Common occupations include
street vending, domestic work, and manual labour. This precarious employment situation leaves
families vulnerable to economic fluctuations and prevents them from saving or investing in
education and health care.
Moreover, the lack of formal employment opportunities often leads to a cycle of poverty.
Children may drop out of school to support their families, perpetuating the cycle and limiting
future opportunities. Despite these challenges, many slum dwellers exhibit entrepreneurial spirit,
starting small businesses to improve their economic standing.
Social Environment
Socially, slums are complex communities. While they may be stigmatized as places of crime and
despair, they also foster a strong sense of community. Residents often rely on one another for
support, sharing resources and information. This solidarity can be a source of strength, helping
families navigate the myriad challenges they face.
However, slums also grapple with social issues such as crime, violence, and discrimination. The
lack of police presence and legal protection can lead to exploitation and vulnerability. Women
and children are particularly at risk, facing challenges related to safety and gender-based
violence. Community organizations and NGOs often work to address these issues, providing
support and resources to empower residents.
Health Concerns
Health is a significant concern in slum areas. Poor living conditions—such as overcrowding,
inadequate sanitation, and limited access to clean water—contribute to the spread of diseases.

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Respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and malnutrition are prevalent, and access to
healthcare services is often limited.
Residents frequently rely on local clinics or informal healthcare providers, which may lack the
resources necessary to offer comprehensive care. This situation can result in untreated conditions
and a general decline in health. Despite these challenges, community health initiatives often
emerge, focusing on preventive care, education, and access to essential services.
Resilience and Hope
Despite the harsh realities of life in slums, residents display remarkable resilience and hope.
Community initiatives aimed at improving living conditions, accessing education, and creating
economic opportunities reflect the determination to overcome adversity. Many slum dwellers
advocate for their rights, seeking recognition and support from local governments and NGOs.
Education plays a crucial role in this fight for better living conditions. Local schools,often
supported by charitable organizations, provide children with opportunities that can change the
trajectory of their lives. Programs focused on vocational training and adult education help
empower residents, enabling them to secure better jobs and improve their communities.
Life in slums is a complex interplay of challenges and resilience. While residents face significant
economic, social, and health-related obstacles, they also demonstrate an unwavering spirit of
community and determination. Addressing the issues in these areas requires a multifaceted
approach, involving government action, community engagement, and support from NGOs. By
recognizing the strengths of slum communities and investing in their futures, we can work
towards a more equitable urban landscape for all.

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 CONCLUSION
Living in the slums is a challenging life, and lack of land tenure and fear of evictions do not
make that life easier. Although there is a will to improve people’s lives, many suffer because
their opinion is not taken into consideration. As the years have passed, the slums have only
gotten bigger. Almost eight years have passed since Kenya decided to work on slum upgrading
as part of meeting the Millennium Development Goals. Only eight more years remain until the
deadline. Unless progress improves, those goals will likely not be achieved.
In Nairobi, the Kibera projects have been stalled for over two years due to legal complications. If
there were enough political will, these matters could have been fast-tracked through the legal
system. In the meantime, people have been shut off from the project and are not getting any news
about what is going to happen to their lives in the near future. As a result, people have lost hope
and faith in a project that was to improve their living standard.
The absence of citizen participation is still a problem in the slum upgrade projects. People are
involved in the beginning, but as the implementation phase arrives and as problems arise, they
are pushed aside. Corruption and political manipulation are still a problem in the slums, but a
glimpse of hope can be found in technological solutions, such as Kuhonga and other innovative
local technology projects like those coming out of iHub, allow the citizens to expose these
issues.
For people in the slums, the mobile phone is not only a communication device, but also their
bank and their news provider. It is important when attempting to leverage technology to get
citizens more involved that the solutions used are designed for the technology that people
currently have. While urban planners in developed countries have for years utilized web sites for
sharing information and receiving feedback about their plans, urban planners in developing
countries need to leverage mobile enabled solutions to reach citizens in slums.
Technology enabled citizen participation in developing countries is possible today in terms of
available technology. Innovative solutions to enable this will most likely be developed by people
who fully understand the environment that these people live in. Innovation hubs such as iHub in
Nairobi that fosters technology entrepreneurs from Nairobi need to be supported and encouraged
to create solutions that can be used as part of the slum upgrade projects.
Maps can play a critical role in describing the environment and the problems faced in the slums
in a visual manner. By gaining access to the maps from projects, such as Map Kibera and Map

38
Mathare, the people have a “weapon” in their hands, a physical visual map of what problems
they are facing and how their livelihoods can be improved even just by knowing where the
nearest water tap is.
It is important that awareness, about projects like Map Kibera is increased by community
leaders, donors, government agencies and NGOs working in the slums and that the maps are
further leveraged as part of the slum upgrade process. It is also important that this information is
utilized by urban planners, who are working on slum upgrade projects.
Furthermore it is important that maps and other data collected by the government as part of the
slum upgrade process is shared openly and made readily available, for example through the
Kenya Open Data initiative (Kenya Open Data, 2011).
Further research is needed to help improve citizen participation in slum upgrades. Within iHub, a
research project is underway to look at mobile governance (Ford, 2011). This project will likely
provide further insight into how mobile technology can be utilized in developing countries to
increase citizen participation at all stages, not only in the slum upgrade projects, but in
determining many aspects of their life.
Further research is needed on how citizen mapping projects, like Map Kibera, can help improve
the environment and the livelihood of slum dwellers. One aspect to look at is whether engaging
the citizens themselves as part of the mapping process increases the likelihood of them sharing
their opinion about the slum upgrades as they become more aware of the environment they live
in.
It is my hope that future generations, especially the young people of the slums, will live to tell
about the difference made by technology and the extra power it gave them to improve their living
conditions in more effective ways than their parents could.
Just like technology has supported citizen-driven revolutions in countries of Northern Africa it
may become the “weapon” needed for slum dwellers to overcome the weaknesses of their
government institutions, the rampant political corruption and the irresponsible politicians that
conspire to ruin the upgrade projects

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 REFLECTION

Lost Spring is a story about the lives of children who are forced to work early in life due to
poverty and illiteracy. The story is set in Seemapuri and Firozabad, and focuses on the lives of
children who work in rag-picking and bangle-making. The author's message is to end child
exploitation and allow children to enjoy their childhood.
Awareness of child labor
The lesson raises awareness about the need for strict laws against child labor and the importance
of child education.
Understanding of poverty
The story highlights the effects of poverty on people, including unemployment, illiteracy, and
unequal distribution of wealth.
Recognition of the challenges of marginalised communities
The story depicts the daily struggles of marginalised communities like rag pickers and bangle
makers in small towns in India.
Appreciation of hope
The story celebrates the hope that street children in India hold onto, despite facing exploitation
and poverty.
Understanding of the importance of fulfilling duties
The story helps to focus on the importance of fulfilling duties and creating a balance between
personal choices and responsibilities

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY
❖ SOURCES
• https://www.pulsus.com/scholarly-articles/health-status-in-india-a-study-of-urban-
slum-and-nonslum-population.
• https://blogs.adb.org/blog/health-solutions-work-indian-slums.
• https://edufund.in/blog/problem-of-education-in-slums-in-india
• https://www.smilefoundationindia.org/blog/slum-childrens-education-a-quest-for-a-
dignified-life
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/role-youth-social-change
• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/keep-india-beautiful/life-in-a-slum-ugly-
face-of-india
• https://bmcinthealthhumrights.biomedcentral.com
• https://dahershield.com/en/2024/02/15/the-importance-of-the-role-of-youth-in-
society-and-building-a-solid-state
• https://iopscience.iop.org/article
• https://optimizeias.com/schemes-for-slum-dwellers-and-urban-poor
REFERENCE BOOKS

• Slums of the World: The Face of Urban Poverty in the New Millennium?
• Beyond the stereotype of 'slums'". Environment and Urbanization.
• Slum Cities and Cities with Slums" States of the World's Cities
• "Slums: Past, Present and Future"
The Challenge of Slums: Global Report on Human Settle

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