One of the most critical issues facing India’s children is their lack of access to basic rights and services. According to UNICEF, India ranks at the bottom of the ladder among BRICS countries in terms of child healthcare, nutrition, and education. A report by CRY (Child Rights and You) also highlights the poor state of child rights in India. Some key findings of the report are:
– Around 60% of Indian children are not enrolled in schools
– More than 50% of the rural population does not have access to drinking water
– 45% of the children are underweight and more than one-third are stunted
– Only a third of the households have an improved toilet facility
There is an urgent need to address these issues and ensure that all Indian children have access to their basic rights. This can be done by working with various NGOs that are working in this area. Some of the notable NGOs working for child rights in India are:
1. CRY (Child Rights and You): CRY is one of the oldest and largest NGOs working for child rights in India. It was established in 1975 and has over the years worked with various state governments to create awareness about basic child rights. Some of its notable campaigns are:
– ‘Vote for School’ campaign for ensuring universal education
– ‘Child Marriage Free Zone’ project to curb child marriage
2. Save the Children: This international NGO works towards children’s health, education, protection, and development needs. The NGO has activities in over 120 countries worldwide including India where it works on areas like healthcare, early learning, child protection etc. Its programs are implemented through partnerships with local communities, government bodies, academic institutions etc.
3. Plan International: This global organization focuses on issues impacting children across areas like health care, education, economic empowerment etc. Ithas a presence in over 70 countries and works with various local partners to improve the lives of children. In India, Plan International works in partnership with state governments and other NGOs to address issues like child marriage, malnutrition, education etc.
4. UNICEF: The United Nations Children’s Fund is a global organization that works for the rights of children across the world. It has a large presence in India and works in collaboration with various national and international organizations to improve child rights indicators in the country. Some of its key programs in India are:
– Child-friendly villages initiative to create an enabling environment for children’s education and overall development
– Midday meal program to ensure schoolchildren receive nutritious food
– Early childhood care and education program to promote early childhood development
These are some of the key NGOs that are working for child rights in India. They are making a significant impact in the lives of children and their work needs to be lauded and supported.
