Bokaro, Nov. 18: The fifth boy of 15 Birhor tribals adopted by Bokaro Steel Limited has chosen a life of a labourer instead of continuing with studies sponsored by the steel major.

In 2001, the steel major had adopted 15 Birhor boys of Gomia block as a part of its corporate sustainability programme on the advice of then Jharkhand chief minister Babulal Marandi. It was decided to equip the children of the endangered tribe with quality education and upbringing. They were assured of jobs in the steel plant after Class XII.

But Class X student Binod, who has chosen to return to Gomia, will get Rs 100 per day as a contractor’s daily labourer. Like most Birhors, he may also have an early marriage.

Sawan, among the 10 Birhor boys who have chosen to study, said while he “will earn Rs 15,000 per month, Binod would remain a labourer.”