Policy Update
Bhavya Jain
Introduction
Mission Vatsalya is a flagship child welfare and protection initiative launched by the Government of India in the year 2021 which was implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development aimed at ensuring the safety, protection and holistic development of children, especially those in the vulnerable situations for instance the orphans, abandoned kids and distressed children. It developed from previous initiatives such as the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) and the Child Protection Services Scheme, merging activities since 2009-10 into a detailed program consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mission Vatsalya aims to protect the rights of at-risk children, including those requiring care and protection, youth in legal conflict, street children, and those impacted by challenging situations. The program supports both formal and informal care methods, including foster care, adoption, and sponsorship, while enhancing juvenile justice systems and emergency outreach services like the 24-hour ChildLine helpline. It functions through collaborative actions among central and state governments, civil society, and different child welfare organizations to establish a nurturing environment that ensures no child is excluded.
Background
It is a centrally sponsored scheme which included beneficiaries such as children in need of care and protection, children in conflict with the law and other vulnerable groups. Mission Vatsalya aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 aiming to “leave no child behind”.
Functioning
Mission Vatsalya functions within a multi-layered institutional structure that includes the central government, state governments, and district agencies. According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s annual reports and the Mission Vatsalya dashboard (2022-2024), thousands of children have benefited from family-based care and rehabilitation services. Essential mechanisms consist of:
- Reinforcing official organizations such as Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) and Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs).
- Encouraging family-centered, non-institutional care (adoption, foster care, sponsorship) rather than institutional care.
- Offering rehabilitation, reintegration, skill training, education, and counseling for children who require assistance.
- Promoting cooperation between government agencies, non-profits, and community partners for comprehensive child welfare.
- Crisis response, skills development, and promotion of children’s rights
Impact
1) Mission Vatsalya has enhanced access to healthcare, rehabilitation, and legal assistance for at-risk children, lowering their chances of experiencing abuse and exploitation.
2) Improved collaboration between government agencies and NGOs has resulted in more successful rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
3) The initiative has helped raise awareness about children’s rights and the significance of family-centered care, although societal views and systemic obstacles remain.
4) Nevertheless, there are still gaps in coverage, particularly for street children and those in isolated regions, and there are worries regarding the quality of services in certain institutions.
Conclusion
Mission Vatsalya has established a solid groundwork for child protection and welfare in India, yet its effectiveness relies on ongoing political commitment, effective execution, and community involvement. Speeding up the transition to family-centered care, enhancing capacity building, and utilizing technology for oversight will be essential. The ongoing development of the scheme and its ability to adapt to new challenges will shape its role in creating a safer, more supportive environment for children in India and realizing the goal of “leave no child behind.”
References
About the Contributor: Bhavya Jain is a Research Intern at Impri, Pursuing BA.LLB from Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, GGSIPU.
Acknowledgement: The author would like to thank Ms. Aasthaba Jadeja for her utmost support and guidance.
Disclaimer: All views expressed in the article belong solely to the author and not necessarily to the organisation.
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