Ladugaon, Jan 23: Her father passed away when she was just 10. Shortly after, her mother, who was the only source of income for the family, was hit by an unidentifiable disease and has since been bed-ridden. But life’s hindrances haven’t been able to dampen the spirit of the 17-year-old Chandrakala Dhangadamajhi of Ladugaon Bhirakapada under Koksara block in Kalahandi district.
Yes, she has been forced to abandon her education dreams. Instead she now works as a daily wager to support the family and buy medicines for her mother as well.
Things were smooth for Chandrakala when her father Dambaru Dangadamajhi was alive. The family comprised of her father, mother Padma and two siblings Sunita (11) and Reena (6). The family eked out a living by doing odd jobs. It was not comfortable, but sustainable. But once Dambaru died, the situation worsened. With no option, Chandrakala, being the eldest of the three siblings, then took on the responsibility of running the family.
Currently the family gets 20kg rice of under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and her mother gets Rs 300 as widow pension. Repeated pleas for a house through government scheme have failed to provide results.
“Somehow we sustain with the 20kg for a month. It however, means that at times we have to go hungry,” an ailing Padma said. Her neighbour said it is unfortunate that the district administration has not provided any help for Padma’s treatment.
“Even as the government launches several schemes to educate students, it is poverty and penury that forces girls like Chandrakala and others to drop out. If a family is provided with help as per government norms, then only will proper education be available. Otherwise, there is no us by opening schools,” a local said.
“I had no option, but to drop out of school. I have to take care of my mother and sisters. I want my mother to get well soon and through the media will request the administration to helpus,” Chandrakala said.
When contacted, Koksara BDO Basant Kumar Sethy said he would visit the family personally and take steps to provide them with a house under ‘Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana’. He also said he would extend help for treatment of Chandrakala’s mother.
PNN