How is Gujarat's Foster Parent Scheme Transforming Lives of Orphaned Children?
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Synopsis
Discover how Gujarat's Foster Parent Scheme is changing the lives of orphaned children in Banaskantha district. Learn about its impact, the financial support it offers, and the commitment to ensuring no child is without care and a loving family.
Key Takeaways
- Financial assistance of Rs 3,000 per month.
- Focus on educational and healthcare needs.
- Support for 2,818 beneficiaries in Banaskantha.
- Program emphasizes family care over institutional care.
- Commitment to child welfare by the Gujarat government.
Gandhinagar, Dec 25 (NationPress) The Gujarat government's Foster Parent Scheme (Palak Mata-Pita Yojana) has become a crucial support system for orphaned and abandoned children in Banaskantha district, ensuring that every child has access to care, protection, and a familial atmosphere.
Initiated statewide in 2009-10, this program aims to assist children who have lost one or both parents and are left without guardians. Under this initiative, the state allocates a monthly financial aid of Rs 3,000 to close relatives or caregivers of children orphaned until they reach 18 years of age.
This assistance focuses on fulfilling essential needs such as education, healthcare, and daily living expenses, allowing children to thrive within a family setting instead of institutional care.
Banaskantha stands out as a model district in the successful execution of this scheme, serving as a benchmark for other regions in Gujarat. To date, 2,818 beneficiaries in the district have received support through the Foster Parent Scheme.
Currently, 1,727 children benefit from a total of Rs 51.81 lakh in monthly assistance, providing much-needed stability to families taking care of vulnerable children. Foster parents in the area report that the scheme has significantly improved their capacity to nurture children lacking parental support.
The financial aid alleviates economic burdens and ensures that children can pursue their education and maintain access to healthcare services without interruption.
Social Security Officer Hitesh Patel stated that the effective outreach and implementation in Banaskantha have enabled the scheme to reach families in dire need. “We prioritize identifying and supporting every eligible child to ensure no child is overlooked due to parental loss,” he mentioned.
The Foster Parent Scheme exemplifies the Gujarat government's dedication to supporting those without family. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, this initiative has become a pivotal aspect of social security for at-risk children, providing not just financial aid but also the promise of a safe, healthy, and hopeful future within a nurturing family.
Point of View
The Foster Parent Scheme in Gujarat serves as a testament to the state's commitment to child welfare. It reflects a comprehensive approach to social security, ensuring that vulnerable children are not left behind in times of crisis. The initiative's success in Banaskantha sets a precedent for similar programs across the country, emphasizing the importance of family support in child development.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Foster Parent Scheme?
The Foster Parent Scheme, initiated by the Gujarat government, supports orphaned and abandoned children by providing financial assistance to their caregivers.
How much financial support do caregivers receive?
Caregivers receive a monthly financial aid of Rs 3,000 for each orphaned child under their care.
Who is eligible for this assistance?
The scheme is designed for children who have lost one or both parents and have no guardians.
How many beneficiaries are currently supported?
As of now, 1,727 children in Banaskantha district are receiving assistance through the scheme.
What are the main objectives of the scheme?
The primary goals are to ensure children have access to education, healthcare, and a supportive family environment.
