Mission Vatsalya is a comprehensive initiative by the Indian government aimed at enhancing child welfare and protection services throughout the country. This initiative falls under the Ministry of Women and Child Development and stands as one of the three major umbrella schemes that consolidate all principal programs in this sector. The other two schemes are Mission Poshan 2.0, which focuses on nutrition, and Mission Shakti, which concentrates on women’s empowerment. In the fiscal year 2021-22, the government demonstrated its commitment to child welfare by allocating a substantial budget of Rs.900 crore to Mission Vatsalya. This funding is directed towards the development and support of various child-focused institutions and services.
Objective of Mission Vatsalya
The primary goal of Mission Vatsalya is to provide a protective environment for children, especially those who are in difficult circumstances. It aims to ensure their holistic development by safeguarding their rights and enabling access to proper care and rehabilitation. The mission encompasses a wide range of services, including the establishment and maintenance of Child Care Institutions (CCIs), Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs), and Open Shelters. These institutions are designed to cater to the needs of vulnerable children, offering them the necessary support and guidance.
Allocation and Utilization of Funds
The significant budget allocation for Mission Vatsalya underscores the government’s resolve to strengthen child protection services across the nation. The funds are specifically earmarked for the operational costs of various child-centric initiatives. These include the creation and sustenance of CCIs, which provide residential care for children in need. Additionally, SAAs are supported to facilitate the adoption process, ensuring that orphaned and abandoned children can find loving homes. Open Shelters receive financial backing as well, providing a safe haven for street children and those requiring immediate care and protection.
Child Care Institutions (CCIs)
Child Care Institutions play a pivotal role in the framework of Mission Vatsalya. They serve as residential facilities for children who are orphaned, abandoned, or in conflict with the law. These institutions not only offer shelter but also ensure education, healthcare, and psychological support to children. The aim is to create a nurturing environment that enables children to develop into responsible and self-reliant individuals.
Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs)
Specialised Adoption Agencies are a crucial component of Mission Vatsalya, as they streamline the adoption process for children without parental care. These agencies work in close coordination with the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) to ensure that adoptions are carried out legally and ethically. SAAs are responsible for preparing children for adoption, counseling prospective adoptive parents, and facilitating the entire adoption procedure.
Open Shelters
Open Shelters are another essential element of Mission Vatsalya, providing immediate support to children in vulnerable situations. These shelters offer a place of respite for children who are on the streets, subjected to abuse, or in need of urgent care. Open Shelters aim to protect children from exploitation and help in their rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Support to Juvenile Justice Board
Mission Vatsalya also extends support to the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), which is an integral part of the juvenile justice system in India. The JJB deals with children in conflict with the law and ensures that they are treated according to their best interests. The board provides necessary legal assistance and ensures that juveniles receive fair trials. With the backing of Mission Vatsalya, the JJB can function more effectively in the rehabilitation of young offenders.
In summary, Mission Vatsalya represents a significant stride towards fortifying child welfare and protection services in India. Through substantial financial investment and the establishment of supportive institutions, the scheme aims to create a safer and more nurturing environment for children across the country.
