Poverty The Key Trigger Of Violence, Say Indian Kids

New Delhi: Children across the world are aware of the causes of violence in their countries and 50 percent of children in India said poverty was the key trigger, according to a worldwide NGO.

The fourth annual "Small Voices, Big Dreams" global survey, conducted by the ChildFund group, noted 29 percent of children across the world said "bad behaviour" and 28 percent said alcohol and drugs were responsible for violence.

Children in India say that lack of education, domestic abuse and social conflict were also important causes of violence. The survey polled 6,499 children aged 10-12 in 47 countries.

Asked about their views on socio-political issues facing their country, children around the world held "sophisticated views" at a young age, the study said.

On what they would do to end violence against children if they were president of their country, 30 percent said they would crack down by imposing stronger anti-violence laws.

While 12 percent of children across the world said improving education would be their priority, 41 percent of Indian children cited stronger laws.

The children responded to six questions, including, "What makes you feel safe and happy?" In India, 44 percent said they feel safe and happy at schools while 38 percent said the family was where they mostly feel safe.

Asked what issues were the most important to them, education topped the list, with 85 percent of Indian children agreeing that everyone should have a good education.

Moreover, 56 percent said men and women should be treated equally, and 52 percent said there was a need for improvement in road transportation.

Asked about their heroes, 23 percent of children in India cited historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose.