Governor requests Union Minister for early release of funds

J&K Governor N N Vohra

Governor N.N. Vohra, through a personal letter, has requested Mrs. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, Minister for Women & Child Development, for release of the grant due in 2015-16 for implementation of Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) in the State and to also accord approval for establishing two new Homes for children with special needs.

It is pertinent to mention that a proposal for inclusion of J&K under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), at an estimated cost of Rs. 27.92 crores, has recently been submitted for approval to the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development. The Governor has directed that the matter should be proactively pursued for obtaining the requisite approval to enable very early roll out of the scheme in the State.

ICPS is a flagship scheme for securing the Rights of Children and to contribute towards their wellbeing and to the reduction of vulnerabilities to situations and actions that lead to abuse, neglect, exploitation, abandonment and separation of children. 90% of the fund support for ICPS is made available by the Central Government, which provides a complete organization encompassing   manpower, infrastructure and a number of other interventions designed for children in need of care and protection and also for those who are in conflict with the law. The Scheme also envisages: setting up of State Child Protection Society and District Child Protection Units under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioners; Child Welfare Committees at the district level; establishment of a State level Juvenile Justice Board and monthly support of Rs. 2000/- per month per child to destitute parents for the maintenance of their children.