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Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Launches Aftercare Scheme for Orphans on Mother's Day

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the Aftercare Scheme for Young Persons on Mother's Day to support orphaned children beyond age 18. The scheme, with a budget of Rs 3.5 crore, provides assistance for higher education, skill development, and employment opportunities. Gupta visited a child care home in Lajpat Nagar and emphasized the government's commitment to preparing children for independent living. The initiative aims to help 150-200 young adults who leave childcare institutions each year transition smoothly into adulthood.

Key Points: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's Mother's Day Gift: Support for Orphans After 18

  • Delhi CM Rekha Gupta launches Aftercare Scheme for orphans on Mother's Day
  • Scheme provides higher education, skill training, and job support for young adults after 18
  • Rs 3.5 crore earmarked for the scheme in current financial year
  • Delhi has 88 Child Care Institutions and two aftercare homes for independent living
3 min read

Mother's Day gift: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta approves scheme to support orphans even after 18

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces Rs 3.5 crore Aftercare Scheme for orphaned children, offering education, skill training, and job support even after they turn 18.

"The aim is to ensure that every child and young adult gets the opportunity to build a safe, dignified and self-reliant future without ever feeling abandoned or unsupported. - Chief Minister Rekha Gupta"

New Delhi, May 10

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Sunday that the state government will continue supporting orphaned children even after they turn 18, offering assistance in college education and job search.

The launch of the Aftercare Scheme for Young Persons on the occasion of Mother's Day reflects that the Delhi government's belief that its responsibility does not end with providing shelter and protection to children.

"The aim is to ensure that every child and young adult gets the opportunity to build a safe, dignified and self-reliant future without ever feeling abandoned or unsupported," Chief Minister Gupta added.

The Delhi government has earmarked Rs 3.5 crore for the scheme in the current financial year, a statement said.

Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will receive assistance for higher education and college studies, along with access to skill development and vocational training programmes.

"The Delhi government will also focus on connecting young people with internships and employment opportunities. Financial support and a monthly stipend have also been included in the scheme," the statement added.

Marking the occasion of Mother's Day, the Chief Minister visited the Village Cottage Home in Lajpat Nagar, where she spent time interacting warmly with children living at the facility run by the Women and Child Development Department.

During the interaction, Chief Minister Gupta shared details of the new aftercare initiative and said that Delhi currently has 88 Child Care Institutions, operated jointly by the government and various NGOs.

These institutions provide care, protection, education, rehabilitation and essential support to children up to the age of 18.

The Chief Minister also noted that Delhi already has two aftercare homes, one for boys and one for girls, where young adults above 18 are provided accommodation, food, educational support and other basic facilities to help them transition towards independent living.

Chief Minister Gupta said the Delhi government's approach goes beyond institutional care and focuses on preparing children for life ahead.

"Children in care are being provided education, life skills training, vocational courses, career exposure, counselling, emotional and behavioural support, personality development, career guidance and rehabilitation planning so that they can confidently lead safe, healthy and dignified lives after becoming adults," she added.

The Chief Minister said that every year nearly 150 to 200 young people leave childcare institutions after turning 18.

"While they receive support within institutions, many struggle once they step out, whether in continuing education, acquiring skills, finding employment, dealing with financial difficulties or starting an independent life," she added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

M
Michael C
This is impressive. Many countries in the West have similar aftercare programs, but often they're underfunded or poorly implemented. Delhi's focus on holistic development—life skills, career counseling, emotional support—is exactly what these young adults need. I just hope the execution matches the intention.
P
Priya S
As someone who has volunteered with orphanages, I can tell you how terrifying it is for kids who turn 18 and suddenly have no safety net. This scheme gives them a fighting chance. The monthly stipend is a lifesaver. But let's not forget—the real test will be in transparency and accountability. Who will monitor this?
R
Rohit P
Good initiative by the Delhi govt. But I wish they'd focus more on quality of education and vocational training rather than just connecting with any internship. Kids from these homes often face discrimination in the job market. We need sensitization programs for employers too. 🙏
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Emma D
This is a beautiful Mother's Day gift. The name of the scheme is fitting. No child should feel abandoned, especially after they've already lost so much. I appreciate the holistic approach—education, skills, emotional support. Every state should replicate this model. चीयर्स to Delhi government! 🎉
K
Kavya N
I have mixed feelings. The scheme sounds great on paper, but we've seen many such announcements that remain only on paper. Also, why only Rs 3.5 crore? For a city the size of Delhi, that seems insufficient. I appreciate the

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