POVERTY HITS DEEP IN JHARKHAND DESPITE WEALTH AND NATURE'S BOUNTY

MUMBAI, India – The World Day of the Poor was marked yesterday with a poignant reminder of poverty's far-reaching impact, even in a region rich in minerals and forest. Archbishop Vincent Aind of Ranchi spoke candidly about how poverty is not just an economic issue, but also manifests in various ways that are deeply rooted in the social fabric of the community.

Despite Jharkhand being nearly 68 percent Hindu and boasting an abundance of natural resources, a disproportionate number of its citizens struggle with poverty. The archbishop attributed this to a range of factors, including lack of education, courage, and motivation.

Archbishop Aind warned that poverty is not just about "have-nots" but also encompasses various dimensions such as spiritual poverty, where individuals have lost interest in their faith or spirituality altogether. He emphasized the importance of addressing these forms of poverty, which are often interlinked.

Tribals, a significant segment of Jharkhand's population, face unique challenges in accessing basic rights and services due to their nomadic lifestyle and lack of documents. The archbishop urged them to "wake up" and take control of their lives, citing the Chotanagpur community as an example where empowerment through education, faith, and social upliftment is crucial.

For Bishop Aind, the World Day of the Poor serves as a reminder that addressing poverty requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond economic means. "The prayer of the poor rises up to God," he quoted Sirach 21:5, emphasizing the need for spiritual revival and education as essential tools in the fight against poverty.

As India's Christian population is concentrated largely among Tribals and "Dalits" who often see faith as a means of social emancipation, it is clear that initiatives like World Day of the Poor must be tailored to address these specific vulnerabilities. With its rich cultural heritage, Jharkhand holds immense potential for growth and development – but only if the entire community can overcome poverty's pervasive impact and strive towards a brighter future.

The global celebration of World Day of the Poor continues, with events held across India and other countries, sparking a global conversation on the complexities of poverty and its varied manifestations.