“There are decades where nothing happens, and there are weeks when decades happen.” When we look back upon an eventful year gone by and what it held for children, Vladimir Lenin’s words echo in our minds. Children made global headlines in myriad forms this year. On the international and national front alike, children faced countless challenges. Amidst the dense darkness of these hurdles, however, were moments of hope. Right from moments where policy reworks brought pivotal changes to lives of children to moments where timely rescue operations saved them from slipping into a trap. With this 2024 Rewind, we aim to capture 24 such stories of hope, which make the grim hurdles look bleak. Let’s unravel what the year held one headline at a time.
Globally, Child Rights and Child Protection Witnesses Massive Upheavals
- Australia Proposes Social Media Ban for Under-16s to Tackle Cyberbullying and Mental Health Issues
Australia’s House of Representatives passed a bill to ban social media for children under 16, backed by PM Anthony Albanese. Aimed at addressing cyberbullying and mental health issues, the legislation mandates age verification for platforms and imposes fines for noncompliance. Critics argue it infringes on privacy and free expression, while supporters highlight its necessity for protecting youth.
- Iraq Debates Bill Allowing Child Marriages, Sparking Global Outrage
Iraq’s proposed amendment to the Personal Status Law could allow girls as young as nine to marry. The controversial bill, supported by some conservative factions, has sparked outrage among human rights groups and activists, who argue it violates children’s rights and worsens gender inequality. Proponents claim it aligns with religious laws, while critics warn of severe social and psychological impacts. The amendment faces debate in Iraq’s parliament, with significant opposition advocating for the protection of minors.
India Initiates a Slew of Positive Policy Changes
- India Approves Menstrual Hygiene Policy to Support Schoolgirls
The Indian government has introduced a menstrual hygiene policy aimed at improving access to hygiene products and education for schoolgirls. The initiative focuses on distributing free sanitary pads, establishing disposal facilities, and creating awareness about menstrual health in schools. The policy seeks to combat stigma, reduce absenteeism, and promote gender equality within the education system. It emphasizes collaboration with state governments and NGOs to ensure effective implementation.
- CM Dhami Launches 168 Crib Centres for Children of Construction Workers
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated 168 crib centres for children of construction workers. These centres aim to provide safe care, nutrition, and early education while parents are at work. The initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to welfare and social support for laborers and their families. This step is part of broader efforts to improve living conditions and opportunities for marginalized communities.
- NPS Vatsalya: Secure ₹10 Crore Retirement Corpus for Your Child with ₹10,000 Annually
The NPS Vatsalya scheme offers parents a way to secure a substantial retirement corpus for their children by investing ₹10,000 annually until age 18. This long-term plan utilizes compounding benefits and disciplined savings under the National Pension System (NPS). The investment can grow to over ₹10 crore by retirement, depending on market performance. It emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and choosing appropriate asset allocations for maximizing returns. Learn more.
- Ministry of Education Introduces Guidelines for Registration and Regulation of Coaching Center 2024: Encompasses Age Restriction, Fees and Study Hours
New rules for coaching centres in India mandate transparency in fee structures, limit study hours, and impose penalties for non-compliance. Centres must ensure minimum area requirements and improve safety and infrastructure standards. The guidelines aim to enhance the learning environment, reduce stress on students, and protect parental investments. Parents and students should review these updated policies to make informed decisions about selecting coaching centres.
- Kerala Introduces Gender-Neutral Concepts in School Textbooks
Kerala has implemented gender neutrality in its school textbooks, aiming to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. The updated curriculum includes narratives and illustrations that break traditional gender roles and foster equality. This initiative is part of the state’s broader commitment to progressive education reforms and creating awareness about gender sensitivity among young learners. Critics and advocates are debating its implications for societal change.
- India to Launch ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ Scheme Benefiting 1.8 Crore Students
The Indian government will launch the “One Nation, One Subscription” initiative on January 1, 2025. This scheme aims to provide universal access to academic resources, such as journals and e-books, benefiting approximately 1.8 crore students across the country. It promotes equitable learning opportunities, reducing financial barriers to educational materials. This move is part of India’s efforts to strengthen its research and educational infrastructure.
- India Revises Child Adoption Guidelines to Ease Eligibility for Prospective Parents
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has introduced revised guidelines for child adoption, focusing on relaxing eligibility criteria to make adoption more accessible. These changes include adjusting age limits and income requirements, ensuring that a broader group of prospective parents can adopt children. The new guidelines aim to streamline the adoption process and ensure a better experience for children and adoptive families.
- India Sets Minimum Age of 6 for Class 1 Admissions Under NEP
The Ministry of Education has set the minimum age for Class 1 admissions at 6 years, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP). This move aims to ensure that children have the necessary developmental readiness for formal education. The change is part of broader reforms in the education sector, promoting a holistic approach to early childhood education.
- India Launches National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education
The Ministry of Child Development has launched a new national curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) to improve early learning standards across India. This curriculum focuses on holistic development, including cognitive, emotional, and social skills, aiming to provide quality education to children in their formative years. The initiative is part of
Children with Special Needs Get Much-Awaited Special Attention
- India Implements New Guidelines for Special Needs Education, Including Home-Based Learning Options
India has introduced updated guidelines for children with special needs, focusing on inclusive education. The CBSE’s new measures aim to improve accessibility in schools, while the government also rolled out home-based schooling options for these children. These initiatives are designed to offer more personalized learning experiences, ensuring that children with disabilities receive quality education in flexible settings.
Reports and Numbers Mirror Positive Impact of Consistent Efforts
- Children in Non-Institutional Care Increases Fourfold Reflecting Success of Mission Vatsalya
The number of children in non-institutional care, including foster care, has increased fourfold from 2021 to 2024, according to government data. The rise reflects the success of initiatives like the Vatsalya Mission, which provides financial support for children in difficult circumstances. However, slow fund release and implementation challenges persist, prompting the Ministry of Women and Child Development to urge faster execution.
- 8% of Children Aged 14-18 in India Enrolled in Educational Institutions
According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), 86.8% of children in India between the ages of 14-18 are enrolled in educational institutions. However, significant age-based differences exist, with older youth (18 years old) more likely to be out of school. The report also highlighted that over 55% of senior students opt for humanities, and there is a notable gender gap in STEM stream enrollments. Additionally, 25% of youths struggle with basic reading in their regional languages.
Timely Rescue and Intervention Save Children from Child Rights Violation
- Over 2 Lakh Child Marriages Prevented in One Year, Says Union Minister Annapurna Devi
Union Minister Annapurna Devi announced that more than 2 lakh child marriages were prevented in the past year through government efforts. These measures are part of the broader initiative to combat child marriage and protect minors. The ministry has been working with local authorities and NGOs to raise awareness and enforce legal provisions against such practices. This progress highlights the ongoing efforts to address child marriage in India.
- 58 Child Laborers Rescued from Distillery in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen
In an operation in Raisen, Madhya Pradesh, 58 child laborers were rescued from a distillery where they were forced to work under harsh conditions. The children, aged between 10 and 14, were employed illegally, violating child labor laws. Authorities are taking action against the offenders and ensuring the children’s rehabilitation and education.
- Delhi Women Officers Rescue 104 Missing Children from Traffickers
In a remarkable effort, women officers in Delhi’s police force rescued 104 children from traffickers over nine months. The operation involved coordinated efforts across various districts, addressing the alarming rise in child trafficking. The officers utilized technology and fieldwork to locate and save the children, highlighting their dedication to ensuring the safety of vulnerable minors.
- Child Trafficking Ring Busted in Tumkur, 5 Children Rescued
Seven individuals were arrested in Tumkur for involvement in a child trafficking ring, leading to the rescue of five children. The ring targeted vulnerable women, purchasing babies and selling them for large sums to childless couples. The investigation revealed a network of illegal adoptions, and police rescued several children while one had died and another was returned to their parents. The accused were charged under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to kidnapping and trafficking.
Climate Change Inflicts Wrath on Children
- Chandipura Virus Claims 32 Lives, Poses Higher Risk to Children
The Chandipura virus caused 32 fatalities, primarily affecting children who are more vulnerable to its severe effects. The virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, has seen a rise in cases, particularly in certain regions. Health experts emphasize the need for preventive measures, including mosquito control and awareness programs, to protect at-risk populations. Children, due to their weaker immune systems, face greater risks of complications from the virus.
- Delhi’s Air Pollution Now Equivalent to Smoking 49 Cigarettes Daily
Delhi’s air quality reached hazardous levels, with an AQI of 978, equivalent to smoking 49 cigarettes a day. This pollution crisis is exacerbated by factors like stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution. The government is under pressure to implement stricter anti-pollution measures. Meanwhile, neighboring states are also experiencing poor air quality. As a result, schools in Delhi have shifted to online classes.
Personal Stories of Excellence Trump
- Young Indian Girl Anna Mary Summits Kilimanjaro and Practices Taekwondo at the Peak
Anna Mary, a young Indian girl, made headlines for summiting Mount Kilimanjaro and performing taekwondo at the peak, showcasing her incredible strength and determination. Her achievement highlights the power of perseverance and passion for both sports and adventure. This accomplishment also serves as an inspiring example for young people pursuing their dreams.
- PM Bal Puraskar Awarded to 19 Exceptional Children, Including Mountaineer, AI Scientist, and Google Boy
The PM Bal Puraskar was awarded to 19 extraordinary children for their achievements in fields such as mountaineering, science, and technology. Notable recipients include a young mountaineer, an AI scientist, and the “Google boy” known for his technological prowess. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional talent and contributions from young achievers across the country.
- 11-Year-Old Harshil Kiran Wows With Wildlife Photography, Wins National Award
Harshil Kiran, an 11-year-old from Guntur, has gained national recognition for his exceptional wildlife and bird photography. Inspired by his father’s passion, Harshil began capturing nature at the age of 9. His photos, especially of pelicans at the Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary, earned him prestigious awards, including a gold medal from the Photographic Society of America. He aims to travel across India, documenting rare species and raising awareness about wildlife conservation.
- 17-Year-Old Niharika Nair Empowers 1,000 Tribal Families with Solar Innovation
Niharika Nair, a 17-year-old from Bengaluru, has made a significant impact by empowering over 1,000 tribal families. Through her advocacy and innovative solar solutions, she has provided sustainable energy and improved livelihoods. Niharika’s work highlights the importance of solar energy in rural areas, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.
