Much joy, low income, united family
Bhim is a contented man. He is vegetable vendor near CRI House, New Delhi. He looks after a family of seven—parents, wife, three children.
I ask him what makes him happy. With seven members in the family, Bhim is a happy contented man. After all, he is a vegetable vendor, and it must be tough looking after a large family on a very limited income. His daily earnings come to about Rs 400.
Two of his children are studying in Dev Samaj School, New Delhi (near CRI House). Their annual fees come to Rs 30,000. Bhim feels it is worth spending this money, since they get a good education, and also have a free meal daily in the school. The youngest child is studying in the government school nearby, where everything is free, including books and meals. “I spend Rs 5000 for the books and to buy stationery for my children.”
“Do you own a house,” I ask him.
“Yes,” he says happily. “I am lucky to have my own house, for my parents and wife and children.”
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Sr Celine Vas BS
