Mr. Dharma Ram, a 31-year-old worker from Kali Beri, Jodhpur, worked in the sandstone mines. In August 2022, he was diagnosed with silicosis, a debilitating lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to silica dust, and certified by the Rajasthan government. Despite his hard work, his health deteriorated to the point where he could no longer continue working in the mines. He was offered a small stationary shop to manage his income and run the family but his condition prevented him from maintaining it. Hence,he stayed home to look after his youngest child, a 2.5-year-old daughter.
In his dire situation, Dharma Ram reached out to the Mines Labor Protection Campaign Trust (MLPC) for help and support. MLPC provided crucial financial aid to alleviate the family’s burden. However, Dharma Ram tragically passed away, leaving behind his wife, and their four children, aged between 2.5 and 12 years. MLPC has since stepped in to offer comprehensive support to her family. The assistance includes regular supplies of groceries and essentials, medical check-ups and necessary treatments, help with legal paperwork to expedite the compensation process, funding for school fees and educational materials, and exploring sustainable employment opportunities for Dharma Ram’s widow without supplying her with any direct finances.
After Dharma Ram’s untimely death, his widow found herself in a dire situation. According to local customs, she is not allowed to leave the house for six months following her husband’s death. Additionally, she has to care for her young daughter, making it impossible for her to return to the mines, leave her at home or seek alternative employment. The family is in urgent need of basic necessities, including food, healthcare, income, and educational support for the children. Dharma Ram’s widow is also awaiting compensation from the state government due to her husband’s work-related death, but the process is slow, and she needs help with legal documentation, including obtaining a death certificate.
To sustain such support, MLPC relies on resources and funds. Donors can sponsor specific needs such as food, health, education, or livelihood programs. They will have the opportunity to connect with beneficiaries and see the impact of their contributions, with regular updates and detailed reports on how the funds are being used.
Dharma Ram’s case underscores the severe impact of silicosis on workers’ families and the urgent need for support systems. It highlights the necessity for better workplace safety measures and social support systems for silicosis patients and their families. This story also brings out the importance of collective efforts to address their challenges.
This case of Dharma Ram’s widow and her family demonstrates the transformative impact of MLPC’s assistance. The organization’s efforts ensure these families receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives with the help of organizations who can take a step forward in generously funding for these victims, thereby adding a feather to their cap as well and fostering stability and hope in the face of adversity.