A group of homeless children in the Indian capital of New Delhi publish a newspaper telling about their own lives. It is called Balaknama, which means “children’s voice”.
The newspaper is written and edited by children up to 19 years old. About 10,000 people read it. The children write about poverty, child labor, underage marriages and drugs. When reports arrive, they sit down to select the story, and fights usually break out. They argue: this story will have more effect than that story. So there’re a lot of debates before the final selection goes to print.
The newspaper has 70 reporters in several states and 14 in the capital. All of the reporters, editors and managers are homeless children. Many of their parents are jobless and cannot read or write. The children now earn money, and many of them attend classes online.
The newpaper is published every month. It has eight pages. In 2002, when it began operations, the newspaper was published four times a year. It has changed the lives of many of the children who publish it, and hopes to improve the lives of thousands of others.
Non-governmental organizations and charity groups support the newspaper. Sanjay Gupta leads a group that helps the children and gives money to the newspaper. “They feel very encouraged when people appreciate them. When they talk to the officials and before the media, they gradually build up their self-confidence. I think Balaknama is a powerful tool for them. The newspaper costs about three cents. That is lower than the price of a small cup of tea in India. But the low cost gives the children hope that they will someday have a home and a job.”
5. What can we learn about reports in Balaknama?
A. They often cause disagreement.
B. They all come from the capital.
C. They are chosen by managers directly.
D. They are about the lives of children in India.
6. Which of the following about Balaknama is TRUE?
A. It is published every three months.
B. It is designed for readers under 19.
C. It is operated by homeless children.
D. It aims to help more children receive an education.
7. What can we learn from Sanjay Gupta’s words?
A. Balaknama helps children become confident.
B. People usually read Balaknama while drinking tea.
C. The government should help Balaknama financially.
D. The price of Balaknama is too low to support the children.