Causes of Problems Faced by the Deprived Class

The deprived class refers to those who face significant challenges in terms of access to basic resources like education, healthcare, employment, and social services. Several factors contribute to the problems faced by these communities:

• Poverty: One of the main causes of deprivation is poverty. Families in the deprived class often live below the poverty line, making it difficult to afford basic needs such as food, shelter, and education.
• Social Discrimination: Historical and social factors, such as caste, gender, and race, often lead to discrimination. Marginalized groups such as Dalits, tribals, and women face exclusion from mainstream society, reducing their access to resources and opportunities.
• Lack of Education: Deprived communities often have limited access to quality education. This leads to low literacy rates and poor job prospects, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
• Poor Healthcare: Inadequate access to healthcare services results in high infant mortality rates, poor maternal health, and the spread of preventable diseases.
• Unemployment: Limited access to job opportunities, lack of skill development, and economic instability lead to high unemployment rates among the deprived classes.

Solutions to Address the Problems of the Deprived Class

Addressing the problems of the deprived class requires multi-faceted solutions:

• Education and Skill Development: Providing free and quality education, along with vocational training, can help uplift the deprived class. Initiatives like Midday Meal Scheme and RTE (Right to Education) Act aim to ensure access to education for all.
• Social Welfare Schemes: Government programs such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana), and PMSBY (Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana) aim to provide employment, housing, and social security to the deprived classes.
• Healthcare Access: Strengthening the healthcare system, providing affordable healthcare services, and launching schemes like Ayushman Bharat can address the health problems of marginalized communities.
• Awareness and Social Inclusion: Awareness programs and social campaigns to eliminate caste-based discrimination and promote gender equality are essential to ensuring that the deprived class has equal opportunities in society.

Illustration: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has helped millions from deprived backgrounds access banking facilities, providing them with financial security and empowering them economically.

Conclusion

The problems faced by the deprived class are deeply rooted in poverty, social inequality, and lack of access to resources. However, with targeted government policies, social awareness, and community support, these challenges can be addressed, creating a more inclusive and equitable society.