Education, Health and hygiene status of slum areas in Dehradun, Uttarakhand: An in-depth study

There are many problems faced by slum dwellers in Dehradun, who have migrated from various parts of India due to the increasing demand in the construction industry in Uttarakhand. These migratory laborers face several inherent problems as they settle in to make a living. A survey was conducted among seven slum areas in Uttarakhand to analyze their status, namely whether they were employed or unemployed; what the conditions were that they were living in; and whether these conditions increase their vulnerability to diseases. What would be the impact of the various programs that the central and state governments have announced with respect to toilets, safe drinking water, and sanitation? What is the extent of literacy/illiteracy levels that exist amongst adults and children in the slums? Primary survey analysis of seven slum areas has indicated that there are basic issues that have led to increased illness and spread of diseases amongst the elderly and children. The government should initiate specific schemes for these areas that could address these primary issues and help the population move out of abject poverty. Questions regarding attitudes towards empowering the female gender, both adults and children, were addressed, and the involvement of the entire family, irrespective of gender, in achieving a regular, stable income.