ASK Sankalp

Moradabad – The ‘City of Brass’ is located at an approximate distance of 150 kms from New Delhi, in the western region of Uttar Pradesh. Brass Metal Handicraft is the major trade of this town, which has given it global identity. Major sourcing of brass for international markets for countries like USA, Britain, Canada, Germany and Middle East Asia stems from this town with Handicrafts and exports to the tune of Rs. 2200 Crores on yearly basis. There are about 600 export units and 5000 industries in the district.

The manufacturing process however entails lot of hazards, which in absence of safe manufacturing standards can prove fatal. Associated with this industry, as a very prominent feature of the town is the large magnitude of children working in the innumerable sub-contracting and household units of the Brass Metal Handicrafts. The number of children involved in the hazardous processes of brass manufacturing and endangering their childhood is estimated to be approximately 45,000.

ASK initiated this program in 1998 half a decade ago, which has successfully weaned away over 200 children from work settings. Now, near their home in Rehmat Nagar on Sambahal road is a beautiful building, which they proudly call their “Sankalp School”. In absence of a quality school alternative, Sankalp has taken the recognition for formal education till class 8th. Alongside the child enjoys all the games of his/her age and takes part in dramas and role plays. They are also a part of the campaign for protecting their and other children’s rights by approaching major stakeholders in the city.

SANKALP – a firm resolution of ASK to work with the children and the families involved in the process of brass manufacturing at the micro level, under the agenda of promoting Corporate Social Responsibility and establishing a direct link between Business and social development sector was the genesis of ASK-Sankalp in Moradabad.