Lost Spring
1. What is Saheb looking for in the garbage dumps? Where is he and where has he come from?
Ans: Saheb works as a rag picker and searches the garbage dumps for valuable items. For him, the garbage heaps are full of possibilities and hope. Sometimes he finds small amounts of money such as coins or notes, which makes the search worthwhile. Saheb originally came from Dhaka in Bangladesh. Now he lives in Seemapuri, a settlement of rag pickers located on the outskirts of Delhi.
2. What explanations does the author offer for the children not wearing footwear?
Ans: The author observes many poor children walking barefoot across the country. Some people say that it is a tradition for them not to wear shoes. However, the author believes that poverty is the real reason. Families like Saheb’s cannot afford proper footwear. Whenever Saheb manages to get a pair of shoes, he gladly wears them, which clearly shows that the absence of shoes is due to lack of money rather than tradition.
3. Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.
Ans: Saheb does not appear to be happy with his job at the tea stall. Earlier, while rag picking, he felt a sense of freedom. He carried a plastic bag that belonged to him and worked on his own terms. Now he has to carry a heavy steel canister belonging to his employer and follow orders. This change has taken away his independence, making him feel restricted and unhappy.
4. What makes the city of Firozabad famous?
Ans: Firozabad is widely known for its glass bangles. It is the main centre of the glass-bangle industry in India. Many families in the city have been involved in making bangles for several generations. These bangles are worn by women across the country, making Firozabad an important hub for this traditional craft.
5. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.
Ans: Working in the glass bangles industry involves many dangers and health risks. The workers often operate in poorly ventilated and dark workplaces. The heat from the glass furnaces is extremely high, making the working conditions very uncomfortable. Continuous exposure to glass dust while polishing bangles can damage their eyesight, and many workers even lose their vision at a young age.
6. How is Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family?
Ans: Mukesh comes from a family of bangle makers, but he does not want to continue the same work. Unlike his family members who accept their traditional occupation, Mukesh dreams of a different future. He wants to become a motor mechanic and work in a garage. His determination to choose a different career shows his courage and desire to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Understanding the Text
1. What could be some of the reasons for the migration of people from villages to cities?
Ans: Many people move from villages to cities in search of better opportunities. One major reason is the shortage of employment in rural areas. Increasing population puts pressure on agricultural land, which cannot provide jobs for everyone. Another reason is the use of machines in farming, which reduces the need for manual labour. In addition, traditional crafts and small industries in villages often fail to provide sufficient income. As a result, people migrate to cities hoping to find better jobs and improved living conditions.
2. Would you agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept? Why do you think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text?
Ans: Yes, promises made to poor children are often not fulfilled. Society frequently talks about eliminating child labour and improving the lives of poor children, but little practical action is taken. Many industries still employ children despite laws that prohibit it. In places like Seemapuri and Firozabad, thousands of children work in rag picking or hazardous industries instead of going to school. These conditions reveal the gap between promises and reality, where poverty and exploitation continue to dominate their lives.
3. What forces conspire to keep the workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty?
Ans: Several powerful groups contribute to keeping the bangle workers in poverty. Moneylenders, middlemen, and sometimes even local authorities take advantage of these workers. Families often fall into debt and remain trapped in a cycle of poverty for generations. Many children are forced to work in the glass furnaces under harsh conditions. The lack of education, awareness, and organisation among workers prevents them from improving their situation. As a result, they continue to live in poverty while others benefit from their labour.
Talking About the Text
1. How in your opinion, can Mukesh realise his dream?
Ans: Mukesh can achieve his dream through determination and hard work. He wants to become a motor mechanic instead of continuing the family’s traditional occupation of making bangles. If he manages to join a garage as an apprentice, he can learn the necessary skills. With proper training and experience, he could become a skilled mechanic. Later, he might even learn to drive and work as a driver. His strong determination can help him overcome poverty and achieve his goal.
2. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.
Ans: The glass bangles industry involves dangerous working conditions. Children and adults work near furnaces that produce extremely high temperatures. The workplaces are often small, dark and poorly ventilated. Continuous exposure to glass dust can damage their eyes and lungs. Many workers lose their eyesight at a young age because of these conditions. Despite these dangers, thousands of children continue to work there due to poverty.
3. Why should child labour be eliminated and how?
Ans: Child labour should be eliminated because childhood is meant for education, growth and proper development. When children are forced to work, they lose opportunities to study and build a better future. Many industries employ children in dangerous environments, which affects their health and safety.
To eliminate child labour, strict enforcement of laws is necessary. Employers who hire children must face strong punishment. At the same time, the government and society should ensure that poor children receive education, support and better living conditions. Providing families with economic opportunities can also reduce the need for child labour.