Book

Weakest on Earth

Orphans of India

Discover the untold story of India’s most vulnerable children—orphans who are often forgotten and left behind. In Weakest on Earth: Orphans of India, compelling accounts gathered through interviews, field visits, and policy analysis expose the invisible barriers these youths face—from lack of legal identity and social stigma to scarce educational and economic opportunities.

  • Poulomi Pavini Author | Weakest on Earth

Facts About Orphans

Testimonials

This is to appreciate Ms. Poulomi Pavini Shukla for her in-depth analysis and advocacy on behalf of orphans, through her book "Weakest on Earth," presentations, and a Writ Petition in the Supreme Court. Her efforts have prompted significant governmental attention, leading to the Government of Chhattisgarh's comprehensive review and commitment to improving the lives of orphans with enhanced support and opportunities. Best wishes to Ms. Shukla in her future endeavors.

Shri. Bhupesh Baghel

Chief Minister, Chhattisgarh

A nation's development can be judged by how it treats the poor and helpless. India is yet to have an effective care of orphans and disadvantaged children who are the poorest, most helpless and really deserving of suppori weakest on earth is path-breaking book which draws attention to this neglected category. It sets new standard of analysis of public policy from humanitarian point of view. An inclusive insight with a superlative presentation makes this an exceptional work.

Mr. Javed Akhtar

Padma Bhushan

This book is a deep study and analytical research on the conditions of orphans, particularly juvenile orphans I india. The effort is commendable.

Justice V. S. Sirpurkar

Justice Judge, Supreme Court

An outstanding, comprehensive presentation of issues about a section of society whose voice has not been heard so far. A compelling read.

Dr. Naresh Trehan

Padma Bhushan, Chairman & Managing Director, Medanta - The Medicity

Poulomi Pavini Shukla is a self-motivated young person who has dedicated herself to a highly compassionate pursuit of helping orphan children in India. She belongs to Lucknow and I have known and seen her work since I was the Minister for Women and Child Development in the Government of Uttar Pradesh. Poulomi's argument is that abandoned chi dren without parents are the weakest members of society and deserve the maximum possible support from society and Government.

Smt. Rita Bahuguna Joshi

Member of Parliament & Minister of Women and Child Welfare, GoUP

Ms. Poulomi Pavini Shukla’s visionary scholarship in Weakest on Earth illuminates the silent plight of orphaned children, compelling both policymakers and civil society to confront this urgent humanitarian concern. Her lucid policy analysis, woven with poignant case studies, sets a new benchmark for research in child welfare. Through persistent advocacy—culminating in her Supreme Court petition—she has catalyzed state governments to allocate dedicated funds and expand educational quotas for orphans. Hailing from Lucknow, her unwavering commitment exemplifies true public service, and we anticipate her continued leadership will usher in transformative reforms for India’s most vulnerable youth.

Shri. Keshari Nath Tripathi

Governor, West Bengal and Bihar