Background About 5% of India’s population lives in slums. About 15-25% of Metro population lives in slums. Slums are habitations located on disputed as well as unused government, municipal and private properties. Slums are characterized by serious lack of basic amenities, sanitation with dense and overcrowded housing conditions. According to the United Nations, one billion people worldwide live in slums and will likely grow to 2 billion by 2030. The slum population and the number of slums themselves are growing at alarming rates. Number of slums in Bangalore was about 200 in 1998 and now has increased to 1000 in 2009 that means 500% growth. Sadly 40 to 50% of this population are children and youth. Reason of growth of Slums: Migration Change in agricultural scenario No prospects in rural areas Bigger opportunities in Cities Preference on labour market than agriculture Slums means Poverty Poor health conditions Poor living conditions Lack of Quality Education Divine Karnataka Project is an initiative by Art of Living Foundation to address these issues. DKP plans to achieve this objective through the following measures: Measures to address these issues include: Provision of basic amenities, medical & health care and better education to improve the quality of life and alleviate poverty. Inculcate human values & induce dignity of labour. Providing basic amenities and better opportunities in rural areas. Encourage agricultural and small scale industries reducing migration to cities. Last Updated ( Thursday, 15 Oct 2009 16:30 )