The next day was a regular build day and I moved to a new site where my expertise digging septic tanks was specifically requested. This made me very proud because like I said before, it's tough getting compliments out of these guys. Every day I ask my construction supervisor how many rupees I was worth that day. The standard rate for a laborer is 100 rupees a day. It took me three days to get up to 50 rupees! But now, as I become more skilled at using that crazy Indian shovel, I am fast approaching 100.
With the help of my friends Frank and Nivita, my Hindi is really improving. I can greet someone, ask how they are doing and tell them that I have to go to work now. I also have a few more phrases that are useful around the worksite and are good for getting laughs like " I am thirsty", "I am exhausted" and "I am very strong". Though the kids get the biggest laughs from my pronunciation. I am still working on the head and hand gestures though. I almost have them down.
1 comment:
So the average worker makes the equivalent of about $2.50 per day, so at 50 Rupees you've worked your way up to the equivalent of about $1.25. Imagine living on that.
I remember back in the 80s when I was in Honduras the day-rate was $2.50/day as well. I wonder if it would be valid to say that the day rate for 3rd-world labor hasn't gone up in 20 years.
Your blog rocks! Keep up the good work.
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