India

Our work in India

India’s economic growth has been strong in recent years but extreme poverty and inequality remain widespread. Our work in India focuses on helping people to develop the tools and knowledge they need to build their own livelihoods. We also assist marginalised communities to access government entitlements. 

Click here for a snapshot of the work we have been doing in India for COVID-19.

The need for support in India

India’s economic influence is steadily on the rise. However, poverty, illiteracy, and inequalities remain, particularly in rural areas.

Poverty: Around 22% of the population lives below the national poverty line. Poverty rates in India’s poorest states, where Caritas Australia works, are 3 to 4 times higher than those in wealthier states.

Inequality: Continues to impact India’s most vulnerable groups, including women, indigenous people and those living with disabilities. Government programs exist to help poorer communities to close the gap, however, many are not aware of these services and are unsure of how to access them.

Disability: An estimated 80 million people in India are living with a disability, around 69% of them in rural areas. Low literacy, few jobs, and widespread social stigma mean they are among the most excluded people in India.

Achievements: 

• So far, the program supports 130 community-led groups
• Various aims of these groups include disability support, women’s participation, dialogue with duty bearers, self-help and networking.
• The most marginalised community members, including women, children, transgender people and the elderly, are actively involved in these groups.
• Some act as group leaders, helping communities to ensure access to entitlements, including disability, aged, and widow pensions from the government.
• Distributed masks, hygiene kits, shared preventive health messages and conducted training sessions during COVID-19 pandemic.

Fact: Around 20,000 people are expected to benefit from this program

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