Rural Organisation for Poverty Eradication Services (ROPES)

Key activites in FY15:

Stop Child Exploitation Project: This project was sponsored by Terre des Hommes (TdH) and covered 39 villages in the target area to protect children. Children in this area are vulnerable to abuse, child labor, child marriage and trafficking. They are also affected by HIV/AIDS and malnourishment. There is a high incidence of infant mortality and maternal mortality in the region.

Protection: ROPES has established six Child Protection Centers (CPCs) to protect 278 children from abuse. During the year 558 children, especially from Dalit and tribal communities, were rescued and brought into the mainstream through interventions by ROPES.

To train and motivate Anganwadi teachers for safe guarding other children, ROPES conducted a training program on child rights for 106 teachers. Life Skills and Coping Behavior Improvement Training was provided to 156 school teachers and 20 Headmasters. The team also provided awareness training to police personnel at various locations. Vocational Training was provided to 65 youth in supply chain management, home care nursing, computer literacy and tailoring.

Prevention: To reduce the risk of vulnerability and abuse, ROPES conducted several counseling and awareness programs during the year. 56 alcoholic parents were counseled. Self Help Groups were promoted which helped their members with revolving loans to improve income generation. Unorganized labor was given help to secure the benefit of social security schemes and health care provided to antenatal and postnatal mothers. 

Prosecution: Despite a higher degree of risk and hostility, the team has done commendable work. 39 Child Protection Committees (CPCs) with 348 representatives were constituted. 45 cases were reported by members and resolved. To monitor and ensure child rights, ROPES co-ordinates with 16 NGOs who work with Dalits and tribals in Chitoor District.