November 10, 2010
Department of Social Work, Coimbatore
 

The recently released United Nations Human Development Report for 2010 introduces a new index that redefines poverty.
 

Now measuring more than just income levels, the new Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), also assesses deprivation in health and education.
 

Including 104 developing countries and 78% of the world’s population, its figures help to identify the world’s most vulnerable people.
 

According to these statistics, 421 million vulnerable people live in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
 

India’s figures surpass Africa’s 26 poorest countries by 11 million.
 

Yet, India is the second fastest growing economy in the world.
 

Working to raise India’s quality of life to a level compatible with its economic growth, are the committed students enrolled in Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Master of Social Work program.
 

Serving the community through outreach programs, these students provide charitable services to those in need.
 

Ms. Anne R. and Ms. Sruthi K.P., Coimbatore Social Work Department students, organized a general health check-up for the children of Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), aka “Balawadi,” this past October.
 

Forty children between the ages of two and five were examined and treated for conditions like cold and flu by Dr. Veer Kumar from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham dispensary. Balawadi worker Ms. Mona and her assistant provided support.
 

Parents also received educational counseling on the importance of childhood nutrition, hygiene and dental care for maintaining good health.
 

A scale and chairs were provided by Headmistress, Ms. Jayalakshmi, Ettimadai Middle School.
 

Economically, India will continue to rise.
 

Ensuring that the standards of health and education also rise, these students of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Master of Social Work program will continue to work.