“Sometimes we cannot tolerate the hunger… we hide and eat papayas if it gets too much”, the words of young Ajit who is a resident student at the Ganua Sevashram School in Korda village, Sundergarh District Odisha.
Home to 140 girls and boys, the school is a government run facility for tribal children from the neighbouring area. The students are being provided sub-standard food. Their dal-rice has more water in it than proteins.
Under the tyrannical rule of their warden they have not been able to voice their concerns to the local authorities who come in for inspection. They’ve learnt how to fend for themselves now, sneaking in the occasional fruit and vegetables when they get the money.
Community Correspondent Purna Chandra says that the conditions here are so terrible, that you would believe them only if you saw them with your own eyes.
“For most of these children, this is the only shot at education they have. But when a child is hungry, how can we expect her to learn, or develop mentally and physically?” asks Purna. He urges you, the viewers to take action.
Call to Action: Please call Mr Chandrakant Majhi, District Welfare Officer on 09439522362 and ask him to ensure better facilities for the students.