India
Malli Majhi was selected by her community to receive a new home built by CRS as part of a Disaster Risk Reduction Project. Photo by David Snyder for CRS
India has seen substantial economic growth over the years, but millions of its people continue to suffer from severe poverty and malnutrition. Ethnic and religious clashes, seasonal floods, drought, cyclones and violent storms have kept poor people poor. While laws exist to protect women and children, domestic violence is common, children are often forced to work, and instances of women and child trafficking are widely reported.
Latest Stories From India
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More Floods Wash Over Pakistan, India
Another round of torrential rains sweep away progress for many families recovering from last year's deadly floods. »»
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We are all moved by images of human catastrophe. But, afterward, even more astounding scenes play out every day. »»
The Next Tsunami: Keeping Fishermen Safe
In India, CRS is using high-tech means to chart the weather—and protect fishermen in case of natural disaster. »»
Stats
| Population: | 1,166,079,217 (July 2009 est.) |
| Size: | 3,287,263 sq km; 1/3 size of United States |
| People Served: | 514,002 (2011 est.) |
History
Catholic Relief Services began working in India in 1946 to provide emergency food relief during the Maharashtra famine. Food donations and other community services continued over the following years to schools, health clinics and child support groups in different areas of the country. CRS continues our education, health, agriculture and emergency programs. In partnership with the local Church, we expanded our reach to respond to natural disasters, political upheaval and the needs of refugees.
Partners
The Tirunelveli Social Service Society (TSSS) was founded by the Catholic Diocese of Palayamkottai and is dedicated to promoting the rights of and protecting street children, sex workers, Sri Lankan refugees, migrant workers, and people with HIV. TSSS works in the southern part of Tamilnadu, India, and has a home for street children and deserted women, a child adoption center, a 24-hour help line, a hospice center for HIV and AIDS patients, and a vocational training center for rural youth.
