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The main target group of the VCDS is Dalits, formerly known as 'untouchables', who lie outside the caste system. The system was formally abolished in 1950, but Dalits continue to suffer discrimination and deprivation. Nowadays, Dalits constitute 20 per cent of the Indian population.
High illiteracy
The VCDS operates in 60 villages, with a population of 50,000. Approximately 33% of the population are Dalits and 22% belong to a 'backward caste' called Vanniyars. Dalit villages are usually separate from the main villages.
About 60% of the population in this area are illiterate, especially Dalit and 'backward caste' women.
Workers, farmers and unemployed
Most people in these villages are employed mainly as
- Farmers
- Agricultural labourers
- Stone quarry workers
- Salt-pan workers
The unemployment rate is high, which forces people to go to Chennai (Madras), Bangalore or Mumbai (Bombay) for a job. Those who can afford the travel cost go as far as the Middle East or Singapore.
Focus on the most oppressed
In this target group, the VCDS focuses especially on the most oppressed people:
- Women
- Youth
- Children
- Workers
- The disabled
- Landless and marginal farmers
Read more on the Internet:
National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR)
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