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VI.-ECONOMIC INFLUENCES.
In the introduction we have referred to the fact that every
circumstance affecting the physical comfoit and well-being of a
population has a considerable influence upon the amount of malaria
present.
Perhaps there is nothing of more vital importance to the mem-
bers of a community than that they shall obtain a physiologically
adequate dietary, and in the case of a labouring population a diet
at least proportionate to the amount of physical work expected of
them.
In addition to this, suitable housing, clothing; fuel and the abili-
ty to indulge in occasional little luxuries such as tobacco, etc., are in
their general effect on the condition of the individual essential to a
condition of physiological well-being. In the absence of these con-
ditions we shall have hardship and physiological poverty, the second.
great factor that we have indicated as profoundly influencing the in-
cidence of malaria.
FOOD.
In the Duars the monthly pay of the coolie is stated to be Rs. 6
for a man, Rs. 4-8-0 for a woman, and Rs. 2-8 0 to Rs. 3 for a working
child. During certain times of the year industrious coolies can
earn considerably more than this, but in 1900 the Deputy Commis-
sioner of Jalpaiguri estimated that the average earnings of the most
Industrious out-door male labourer would not reach as high a figure
as Rs. 7-8-0 per mensem. The actual amount earned by a labour force
is, however, much less than this, totalling on the average, inclusive of
extra "licca" as noted in the Assam Labour Report, Rs. 4-9-0 for
men, Rs. 3-7-0 for women, and Rs. 1-0-5 for children, each month
in the year. This is stated to be the amount the coolies are "content
to earn ". It is necessary for us to enquire very closely into this state-
ment, since on such pay with prices of foodstuffs at the level they have
maintained during the last few years it is, we believe, not possible
for coolies to obtain an adequate dietary.
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