In a move to enhance support services for children and women in distress, the Ministry of Women and Child Development announced the implementation of the “One Nation, One Helpline” initiative. This initiative aims to consolidate the existing child helpline (1098), operated by Childline, with the women’s helpline and Emergency Response Support System (112), streamlining and improving assistance for those in need.
States and UTs Taking the Lead
Several states and union territories (UTs) in India are taking proactive steps to operationalize the merged child helpline, setting the stage for the nationwide implementation of the universal helpline. States such as Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Puducherry, Goa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Mizoram, Gujarat, and Bihar are set to launch the integrated child helpline service. These regions have recognized the importance of providing timely and efficient responses to distress calls from children and women.
Aiming for Nationwide Implementation
The central government has set a target to establish the universal helpline across the country by the end of this year. This objective underscores the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive support and assistance to those in need. By merging the child helpline with the women’s helpline and Emergency Response Support System, the government aims to create a unified platform that caters to the diverse needs of children and women facing crisis situations.
The Significance of Childline Services
Childline Services, as defined under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, serve as a 24-hour emergency outreach service for children in crisis. These services connect children to emergency or long-term care and rehabilitation services. Childline India Foundation (CIF), established in 1996, pioneered the country’s first toll-free tele-helpline number, 1098, to assist street children in distress. Currently, Childline operates through 1,500 NGOs nationwide, providing crucial support to vulnerable children.
Addressing Inefficiencies and Improving Response Time
Despite the invaluable work carried out by Childline and its partner NGOs, the system has faced challenges in recent years. Ministry sources highlight that the CIF’s average response time to a distress call was approximately 60 minutes, even in situations requiring immediate rescue. Recognizing these inefficiencies, the integrated helpline has been launched with the objective of significantly reducing response time and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the system.
The Benefits of the Integrated Helpline
The “One Nation, One Helpline” policy brings several advantages. First, it eliminates the need for individuals in distress to remember multiple helpline numbers, simplifying the process and ensuring a more efficient response. Second, by integrating child and women helplines, the system can address a wider range of issues and provide comprehensive support to both groups. Third, the consolidation allows for better coordination and collaboration among stakeholders, facilitating a more cohesive and effective response mechanism.
Empowering the Vulnerable
The implementation of the “One Nation, One Helpline” policy signifies a significant step towards safeguarding the rights and well-being of children and women in distress. By establishing a universal helpline, the government aims to ensure that those in need can access timely and appropriate support services, regardless of their location. This policy not only streamlines the helpline system but also strengthens the nation’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
