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Renovated tank, India - Photo ADER
Drinking water supply, India - Photo ADER
SHG member in front of renovated toilets, India - Photo ADER |
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ADER's approach
Access to water for underprivileged social groups is part of the fight against poverty and long term development, as well as the improvement of living conditions and the protection of the environment.
The important aspects concerning access to water and to irrigation are :
- The right to water, fundamental and vital need.
- Education in matters of public hygiene and water quality.
- Collective consultation and management of water supplies, involving the local population and the local authorities.
- Preserving natural water sources.
- Promoting alternative agriculture.
Access to water in Southern India
For the 5000 Dalit women, Untouchables or outcast, members of the KGFWA Federation, lack of access to drinking water constitutes one of the major discriminations against them from people of higher castes, just like access to land, education, employment. At the bottom of the social ladder, the women face social and economic exclusion.
Apart from the improvement of living conditions, access to water also improves the women's social status and helps reduce prejudices against the untouchables. The fact that people from a higher caste use the water belonging to untouchables, lowers a cultural screen and favours a more peaceful coexistence between the communities. |
