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Dear Reader,
The differential fertility rates among communities in India, both real and perceived, have spawned intense, contentious and polarising debates.
However, an analysis by The India Forum of the Fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) 2019-21, the last enumeration, shows that fertility rates In India have fallen across all socio-religious groups, driven by socioeconomic changes and increased adoption of family planning. The Survey indicates that differences in fertility rates between communities have narrowed significantly, suggesting a move towards a more homogeneous demographic pattern.
Urban areas show lower fertility rates compared to rural areas, reflecting better access to education and healthcare. The analysis argues that the findings challenge the perception that some groups inherently have higher fertility rates; and it emphasises the importance of this new reality for both policy and affirmative action.
From Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Mojo Story brings you the story of a group of women—'Jal Sahelis'—who are transforming water conservation efforts in the area. Organised by Parmarth, an NGO, these women construct check-dams, revive rivers, and promote sustainable agriculture, significantly improving water availability and local livelihoods. The government has recognised their efforts, with several Jal Sahelis being honoured for their innovations and efforts.
In early July, five orphans with disabilities tragically died from suspected food poisoning at the Yugpurush Dham Ashram in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, which houses over 200 children. Article 14 points out that the incident has highlighted systemic issues in the government's approach to childcare institutions (CCIs).
While the standards set for these institutions in the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015, and related orders of the Supreme Court, mandate comprehensive facilities for children, the support from the State in keeping to their mandate is abysmal. Despite funds allocated under schemes like 'Mission Vatsalya', delays and inconsistent disbursement hinder effective implementation. With only 1.4% of India's 30 million orphans being sheltered in childcare institutions and the majority being homeless, the State's support to these institutions with necessary logistical and financial resources is critical.
In Delhi, the national capital of India, homelessness is a grim reality. The Probe reports that the homeless endure daily challenges, including a lack of access to basic necessities like shelter, clean water, and healthcare. Non-profit organisations offer some respite through shelters and support services, but systemic issues such as urban poverty and inadequate social safety nets persist. The situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address both immediate relief and long-term support for the homeless population in Delhi.
And, early this month, security forces claimed to have killed at least five Maoists in an intensified campaign to "eradicate Maoism". Main Bhi Bharat goes to ground-zero, to the Abhujhmar area in Chhattisgarh, a "notorious hotbed" of Maoists to report on how the conflict had not only taken a toll on the security forces and the Maoists but, as significantly, on the indigenous tribals who are caught in the crossfire of a battle that they seem to have little say in.
For more such stories from the grantees this week, please read on.
Warmly,
Sunil Rajshekhar
IPSMF
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