The ‘PM-CARES for Children’ Scheme (Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations) has received a major boost, with an extension of its validity till 28th February 2022. Originally slated to close on 31st December 2021, the scheme was first launched on 29th May, 2021. Primarily targeting children severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, it caters to the needs of those who have lost their parents or legal guardians due to the virus.
Understanding the PM-CARES for Children Scheme
The scheme aims to provide comprehensive care and protection to children who have been orphaned or abandoned as a result of the pandemic. A total of 1,47,492 children, including 76,508 boys, 70,980 girls, and four transgender youths, are included in this initiative. The scheme looks at nurturing these children, securing their future through health insurance, providing education, and ultimately equipping them for financial independence once they reach the age of 23.
Key Features of the Scheme
One of the standout features of the scheme is the allocation of a corpus of Rs. 10 lakh to each child from the PM CARES fund. This amount is distributed as a monthly stipend once the child turns 18, continuing till he or she becomes 23. At this point, the balance is given in a lump-sum for personal and professional use. In addition to this, the scheme also covers educational expenses, providing admission to Kendriya Vidyalaya and private schools, along with offering scholarships for higher education. Each child under the scheme is also enrolled under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, providing a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh.
PM-CARES Fund: An Overview
The PM-CARES Fund was established by the Indian Government to tackle emergency situations, such as the current Covid-19 pandemic. Operated as a public charitable trust, the fund is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes key cabinet ministers. It operates on the mode of micro-donations, enabling citizens from all walks of life to contribute towards disaster management initiatives and citizen-focused research.
CSR & PM-CARES Fund
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to the social commitment of businesses towards the community. Contributions made to the PM-CARES Fund are recognized as CSR expenditure, thereby encouraging corporate entities to actively participate in national relief efforts.
Other Children-Focused Initiatives during Covid-19
In addition to the PM-CARES for Children scheme, the government has also implemented other child-centric initiatives. One such program is Bal Swaraj Covid-Care, an online tracking portal developed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). It digitally monitors and tracks children who need care and protection.
Another initiative launched as part of Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is PM e-VIDYA. This comprehensive digital education platform was introduced to ensure continued learning during the pandemic.
The Manodarpan initiative provides psychosocial support to students, family members, and teachers during these challenging times. Its prime objective is to promote mental health and well-being.
The Indian Government’s extended commitment to the PM-CARES for Children Scheme reflects its dedication to securing the future of children impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. With multiple initiatives under its aegis, it is taking significant strides in promoting their education, health, and overall well-being.
