Punjab Government Rescues 77 Child Beggars in Statewide Campaign

The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains steadfast in its commitment to child safety and welfare. The Social Security, Women and Child Development Department has successfully rehabilitated 77 child beggars through the Child Begging Free Campaign, as announced by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister of Social Security, Women and Child Development, here today.

Providing further details, the Cabinet Minister highlighted the ongoing state-wide campaign aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating children involved in child begging. She said that this initiative will continue every second week of the month. Thus far, 77 children have been rescued across various districts. Among them, 20 children have been placed in state-run Bal Ghars due to lack of shelter, where they will receive education, food and healthcare. The remaining children have been reunited with their families through the Child Welfare Committee. Additionally, eight children have benefited from the sponsorship scheme, 13 are being processed for school admission and one has been enrolled in an Anganwadi.

Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that, under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, the state has registered seven government children's homes and 39 non-government homes to accommodate orphans, destitute, and surrendered children.

She appealed to the public to report any concerns regarding child safety to their District Child Protection Unit or the Child Welfare Committee.

The Cabinet Minister reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to protecting vulnerable children under the Mission Vatsalya scheme, ensuring no child faces hardship in Punjab. Information about these schemes is available on the department's website at sswcd@punjab.gov.in.

The Social Security, Women and Child Development Department is undertaking comprehensive efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children. The Mission Vatsalya Scheme aims to provide thorough care, protection, development, treatment and rehabilitation for children within society.