Chandigarh, July 24  The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains steadfast in its commitment to child safety and welfare. The Social Security, Women and Child Development Department has successfully rehabilitated 77 child beggars through the Child Begging Free Campaign, as announced by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister of Social Security, Women and Child Development, here today.

Cabinet Minister highlighted the ongoing state-wide campaign

  Providing further details, the Cabinet Minister highlighted the ongoing state-wide campaign aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating children involved in child begging. She emphasized that this initiative will continue every second week of the month. Thus far, authorities have successfully rescued 77 children across various districts. Consequently, they have placed 20 of these children in state-run Bal Ghars due to a lack of shelter. There, the children will receive essential services such as education, food, and healthcare.

The Child Welfare Committee has reunited the remaining children with their families. Additionally, the sponsorship scheme has helped eight children, 13 are in the process of being admitted to school, and one has enrolled in an Anganwadi.

          Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that, under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, the state has registered seven government children’s homes and 39 non-government homes to accommodate orphans, destitute, and surrendered children.

          She appealed to the public to report any concerns regarding child safety to their District Child Protection Unit or the Child Welfare Committee.

          The Cabinet Minister reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to protecting vulnerable children under the Mission Vatsalya scheme, ensuring no child faces hardship in Punjab. Information about these schemes is available on the department’s website at sswcd@punjab.gov.in.

          The Social Security, Women and Child Development Department is undertaking comprehensive efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children. The Mission Vatsalya Scheme aims to provide thorough care, protection, development, treatment and rehabilitation for children within society.