Introduction:
Velu, a young boy from a poor family in Chennai, became a ragpicker due to certain circumstances in his life. His story is highlighted in the NCERT Solution - Children at Work.

Family Background:
Velu belonged to a poverty-stricken family where his father was an alcoholic and his mother worked as a maid. The family struggled to make ends meet and faced financial difficulties on a daily basis.

Escape from Home:
Due to the abusive nature of his father and the constant fights at home, Velu decided to escape from his house in search of a better life. He left his home one night, fearing for his safety and well-being.

Arrival in Chennai:
Velu arrived in Chennai with the hope of finding a job and earning money to support himself. However, being illiterate and inexperienced, it was challenging for him to find suitable employment.

Encounter with the Ragpicker:
In his desperate search for work, Velu met a ragpicker named Jaya. Jaya, who was also a child laborer, introduced Velu to the occupation of ragpicking. She explained how they collected discarded items like plastic bottles, metal scraps, and paper to sell them to recycling centers.

Engagement in Ragpicking:
Impressed by Jaya's ability to earn money through ragpicking, Velu decided to give it a try. He started collecting and sorting waste materials from streets, garbage bins, and even dustbins outside houses. With time, he became skilled in identifying valuable items and earning a decent income from his efforts.

Reasons for Choosing Ragpicking:
Velu's decision to become a ragpicker can be attributed to the following factors:
1. Lack of education and skills: As an illiterate child, Velu had limited options for employment. Ragpicking required minimal skills and could be learned quickly.
2. Availability of resources: Chennai provided ample opportunities for ragpickers as the city produced a significant amount of waste that could be recycled.
3. Financial necessity: Velu needed to earn money to survive and support himself. Ragpicking offered a way to earn a small income, albeit through hazardous and exploitative means.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Velu became a ragpicker due to his dire circumstances, lack of opportunities, and the influence of other child laborers. It highlights the unfortunate reality faced by many impoverished children who are forced into hazardous occupations at a young age.