Chandigarh, December 9
Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is continuously making efforts for the welfare of economically weaker section and helpless children. In the 15 homes being run by the Punjab government for children aged 18 years or below, where 441 children are being provided accommodation, health and education etc. free of charge. In addition of this, under the sponsorship and foster care scheme 824 children are being helped financially.
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the main objective of implementing the Centrally Sponsored Integrated Child Protection Scheme by the Punjab Government is to provide proper care, maintenance, treatment and equal opportunities to the children living in destitute or difficult conditions. Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Punjab government is running 15 different homes in the state under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015. It includes 7 children’s homes, 4 observation homes, 2 special homes and 2 state after care homes. 441 children are living in them and are benefiting from the accommodation, health and education facilities provided by the state government. These children include helpless children, children with special needs etc.
Government provides financial assistance of Rs 2000 per month per child through sponsorship scheme or foster care scheme to children belonging to economically weaker sections. She said that such children who are orphans or who have only one parent and belong to poor families are given 2000 rupees per month by the government. Apart from this, the responsibility of financial support of poor children is taken by various families or individuals through the Foster Care Scheme and Rs. 2000 per month is given. She said that a total of 824 children in the state are getting the benefit of this scheme.
