It may be reiterated that the problem of the Dalits, particularly that of the Valmikis is both economic and socio-cultural. Indeed, it had become a part of our socio-cultural life. As a consequence, not only are Valmikis treated as ‘untouchables’, but they are also isolated, neglected and often economically deprived. This necessitates modification of group attitudes and behavior implemented through a well conceived Programme called Social Integration Programme. This Programme is purely voluntary and does not involve any legal obligation on the part of anyone. All it costs is a ‘will’ to shed social prejudices, a sense of social responsibility and concern for the well-being of society at large. A conscientious citizen formally and publicly adopts a family of scavenger. Subsequently, the two interact closely and visit each other’s home and when required, the adopting person helps the adopted in overcoming his problems.
In order to enrich this process, field visits were made which almost covered entire NCT of Delhi. Valmiki households, within the radius of 2 kilometers or so from the residence of prospective adopters were identified.
Under this Programme, over 50 prominent conscientious citizens including Mr. I. K. Gujral, former Prime Minister of India, other politicians like Shri Salman Khursheed, Shri Mani ShankarAiyer, Dr. Shankar Dayal Singh, and other prominent people like Justice H. L. Anand (Retd), Shri Lalit Bhasin, Air Marshal K. D. Chadha, Dr. (Mrs) Chitra Naik, Shri Dileep Padgaonkar, Shri K. K. Venugopal, etc., adopted scavenger families.