Entitlement Awareness is Empowerment

Awareness Drive in the Settlements

Aashray Abhiyan organized  an awareness drive in the urban settlements to ensure that our focus communities know about the available social security schemes, and how to access them,  and to determine how many of these programs remain accessible and effective today.

Challenges in Accessing Social Security Schemes

Previously, most social security schemes were accessed through Urban Local Bodies and ward councilors. However, due to prevalent corruption, many deserving individuals have been unjustly denied their rights. Although most schemes have now transitioned to digital platforms, this shift has introduced new difficulties.

Many people cannot spare the time to complete the registration process, as taking even a day off work can mean losing their livelihood. Additionally, technical issues such as portals not opening further discourage participation, as missing work often means going without food for the day.

Ongoing Struggles for Housing and Rehabilitation

Over the years, we have persistently advocated for adequate housing and alternative rehabilitation for those affected by developmental projects. Despite our efforts, this goal remains largely unrealized and continues to be more of a hopeful aspiration than a tangible achievement.

Efforts by the Urban and Housing Department

In the meantime, we had hoped that our community would receive some relief, as a team from the urban and housing department was formed to visit affected areas, assess the situation, and provide a report with recommendations.

Lack of Government Response

Unfortunately, despite multiple reminders, no meaningful action was taken. This ongoing neglect reflects the government's indifferent attitude toward marginalized communities, as if the lives of those on the periphery are of little consequence.

Meetings to Facilitate Social Security Access

Aashray Abhiyan team members held meetings in settlements such as Kanti Sinha, Railway Crossing, PESU, R Block, Malaai Pakkdi, Strand Road, and Adaltghat on January 16 and 17.

The primary aim was to ensure that community members could access social security schemes, which play a critical role in guaranteeing food security and addressing hunger so that no one is left without a meal.

Community Engagement and Feedback

The sessions were well-attended, and community members were eager to listen and share their concerns. Some participants highlighted issues such as not being listed on the Public Distribution System (PDS), which affects their access to subsidized essential food items.

Community Action and Participation

The increased awareness motivated the community to collectively decide which issues to prioritize. There was significant turnout at these meetings, even though attending meant taking time off from work.

[Report by Dorothy Fernandes PBVM]