Indian Archdiocese Highlights Suffering of Poor Despite Rich Resources

MUMBAI, India – As the world marks World Day of the Poor, an archbishop in eastern India has spoken about the profound suffering of poverty faced by many citizens despite their location being rich in minerals and forests.

Archbishop Vincent Aind of Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand State,India highlighted that some individuals are impoverished economically while others face significant challenges in areas such as education, motivation, and spiritual well-being.

Jharkhand is nearly 68 percent Hindu, but Muslims make up over 14 percent and Christians – comprising around 4.3 percent of the population — higher than the national average.

The World Day of the Poor, instituted by Pope Francis after the Jubilee Year of Mercy, aims to increase awareness about poverty's many forms and how to tackle it. In 2017 was its first annual observance this year’s theme being “The prayer of the poor rises up to God” (Sirach 21:5).

Archbishop Aind expressed a concern that several Indians are struggling with absolute poverty, lack courage to adapt, or even have left their homeland for reasons like seeking better remunerative returns.

“India’s Christian population make up around 28 million people. Tribals and Dalits – groups often see Christianity as means of social improvement under the ancient caste system – face significant hurdles due to inadequate proof of identity. These migrants lack standard forms needed with government officials,” Aind warned.

The archdiocese is working towards supporting those in need, be it economically or educationally, in addressing root causes of suffering and strengthening efforts for change in communities across Jharkhand State.