An education initiative, started by an NGO in Rajasthan, is changing the lives of thousands of children living in slums in two cities of the state which are Jaipur and Ajmer.

For decades, children living in these slums have been facing dire challenges. Many of those who were born and brought up in such communities are victims of poverty. They are forced to either become rag pickers or beggars due to lack of access to education.

What started as a modest attempt to eradicate the curse of illiteracy in 2001, today, Jagriti, the NGO, provides free value-based education to approximately 6,000 children from economically weaker sections. The Jagriti schools have opened up new vistas for these children.

It begins with the acquisition of pre-existing schools in the cities of Jaipur and Ajmer, including many government schools. Door-to-door visits are made in all slum areas to identify the children who do not attend school. Then there are rallies and chaupal sabhas or community meetings, where families are counseled on the virtues of education.

The NGO focuses on addressing the lack of infrastructure by upgrading school buildings, developing toilets, providing drinking water, and setting up libraries, computer labs, and science laboratories. Apart from this, the NGO provides uniforms, textbooks, and midday meals to the parents of the students for free.

Another important aspect of the NGO is that it emphasises healthcare. Periodic medical camps are organised for children and their families, providing facilities for basic check-ups and specialised treatment.

There are also round-the-clock mobile mortuaries operated by the NGO to ensure free transport and respectful care for the dead bodies. Over 10,000 families have availed of this service, especially in times of crisis.

While the initiative has received recognition at both the state and national levels over the years, some notable awards include the National Youth Award and the Shiksha Vibhushan Award. More importantly, these honours underline the growing recognition of education in breaking the cycle of poverty in slums.