JOIN USWhile both the state and central governments are rolling out educational policies to provide education for all, a community in Hunsur and Periyapatna called as ‘Handi Jogis’ are yet to see one of them passing Class 10.
The pathetic living conditions of the Handi Jogis has been revealed in working paper titled ‘A socio-economic survey of Handi Jogis in Mysore district: A study’ conducted by Centre for the Study of Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policy (CSSEIP) at the University of Mysore by the CSSEIP team headed by director Prof Ramesh.
Even though much has been heard about Right To Education (RTE) in urban areas, Handi Jogis are an example of measures yet to be taken to provide education for all.
According to a report more than 66 per cent are illiterates and only 30 per cent have completed primary education. Shockingly only 2 per cent have completed middle school.
The study suggests that 66 per cent of the head of family were illiterates because of which they were unable to do skilled jobs like others. In order to support the community, the report suggests that training related to income generating activity such as rearing pigs should be supported.
Alcohol consumption has been found to be very high as more than 62 per cent consume liquor on a daily basis.
While alcohol has been one of the reasons for low socio-economic status, in many cases deliberate absence of work was reported to be a common feature. In several cases, men don’t go for work even when there is work and they are paid.
Also, none of the respondents in the survey were found to be using open toilet system and none of them are having individual toilets. Adding to the woes, there has been no scientific drainage and garbage disposal system. As sanitation, drinking water and drainage facilities are interlinked to each other, the community is facing infections and high rate of child mortality, the study said.
Also, 24 per cent of the children have not been immunised despite various programmes being doled out by the government.
The CSSEIP study says it is important for self-help groups to initiate programmes for the betterment of Handi Jogi colonies.
There is a need to provide schemes and facilitate opportunity to develop skills by providing specific vocational training, economic and technical support.