Raipur: Comprehensive Development of Children a Priority for the State Government: Laxmi Rajwade

Raipur
Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade emphasized that the state government prioritizes the holistic development of all children, including those who must reside in institutions for various reasons. She stated that institutions should not be considered homes for these children, as true development occurs within the family and community.

Rajwade inaugurated the “Umang” workshop at a local hotel in Raipur, aimed at the effective implementation of nutrition and care programs. This event included a state-level conference and discussions on the rehabilitation of children in need of care and integrating them into mainstream society. During the program, a nutrition care brochure was launched, and a video was presented. The minister also honored foster families participating in the nutrition care program.

The minister noted that under the adept leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, numerous welfare schemes for women and children have been launched. She highlighted that opportunities for development should be available to all sections of society, allowing children to excel and bring honor to their communities and the state.
Rajwade described foster care as a vital initiative for providing care outside of institutional settings. Under the “Mission Vatsalya,” temporary care is arranged in non-relational families to provide a nurturing environment for at-risk children. This program fosters enthusiasm and opportunities for proper development, emphasizing the need for every citizen to be sensitive and supportive in connecting these children to the mainstream.

She called for collective efforts from all societal segments, NGOs, and the government to provide a family-like environment for children and enhance their development opportunities, contributing to the creation of capable citizens and a stronger India.

Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, Shammi Abidi, shared that several programs, including Ullas, Ummeed, Ujiyara, Umang, and Uday, are underway in Chhattisgarh to promote the holistic development of children. Currently, there are 112 child care institutions in the state, with 33 specialized adoption agencies housing 125 children. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, 56 children have been rehabilitated through adoption, while 2,112 children reside in 76 child care institutions, with 61 identified for the nutrition care program. Additionally, 22 children currently reside under this program, and 1,080 children benefit from sponsorship initiatives.

The event was attended by various officials, including Tulika Prajapati, Director of the Women and Child Development Department; Prabhat Kumar, Child Protection Specialist from UNICEF Delhi; Nandlal Chaudhary, Joint Director; and other staff and foster families.