31 Indian states have implemented ‘PM CARES for Children’ scheme

Current Affairs: According to an ILO-UNICEF report on Social Protection for Children, 31 Indian states and union territories have implemented the national ‘PM CARES for Children’ scheme launched during the pandemic with 10,793 full orphans (children who have lost both parents) and 151,322 half-orphans (children who have lost one parent) due to the pandemic taking the benefit of the scheme.

The report warns that an additional 50 million children aged 0-15 missed out on a critical social protection provision – specifically, child benefits – during 2020 due to COVID-19. It also highlights that India has taken several measures to protect children from the adverse impacts of COVID-19 such as providing food rations, cash transfers and scholarships.
Providing preventive healthcare through Ayurvedic medicines and natraceuticals, wearing masks, doing Yoga, monitoring for five warning signs, opting for tele-consultations and vaccination for parents.
Issuing guidelines for the care and protection of the children affected by COVID-19 and fixing responsibilities for the states, district magistrates, police, Panchayati Raj institutions and other stakeholders.
Ensuring that all children orphaned due to COVID-19 get free education as well as health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh under Ayushman Bharat Scheme till 18 years of age.
Working with UNICEF and other partners to ensure child rights and child protection measures are embedded in the immediate COVID-19 response and longer-term recovery planning.
Stepping up work with refugee and migrant children and those affected by conflict to ensure they are protected from COVID-19.