Every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive. Yet, for millions of children in India, this ideal is still far from reality. From poverty and exploitation to lack of education and protection, children across the country face significant challenges. Understanding child rights in India is the first step toward ensuring a better future for our younger generations.
Understanding Child Rights in India
What are the rights of a child? According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which India ratified in 1992, child rights are the minimum entitlements and freedoms that should be available to all individuals below the age of 18. These rights are rooted in the principle that children are not the property of their parents or the state—they are individuals with their rights.
The CRC outlines four broad categories of human rights for children:
- Right to Survival
This includes a child’s right to life, adequate healthcare, nutrition, and a safe living environment. Access to immunisation, clean drinking water, and essential nutrition are fundamental components of this right.
- Right to Protection
Children must be protected from all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence. This includes protection from child labour, trafficking, substance abuse, physical and emotional abuse, and being used in armed conflict or harmful traditional practices.
- Right to Development
Children have the right to education, play, leisure, cultural activities, and access to information. This supports their physical, mental, emotional, and social development.
- Right to Participation
Children have the right to express their views freely, to be heard in matters affecting them, and to participate in decision-making processes, especially in family, school, and social settings.
Key Laws Protecting Child Rights in India
India has a comprehensive legal framework to safeguard children’s rights, many of which are embedded in the child rights in Indian Constitution under Articles 14 (Right to Equality), 15(3) (special provisions for children), 21A (Right to Education), and 39 (preventing abuse and ensuring childhood protection).
Major legislations include:
- The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 – Focuses on the care, protection, and rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law or in need of care.
- The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 – Addresses sexual abuse and exploitation.
- The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (amended in 2016) – Prohibits employment of children below 14 and regulates working conditions for adolescents.
- The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 – Ensures education for children between 6-14 years.
- The Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006 – Prevents child marriages and provides for annulment and protection.
These laws together form the core of the child protection act framework in India.
Government Initiatives for Advancing Child Rights in India: The Government of India has launched several flagship schemes and policy initiatives to uphold and promote child rights across the country, aiming to ensure a safer, healthier, and more inclusive environment for children:
- Mission Vatsalya focuses on building a strong child protection system by supporting family-based care through sponsorship, foster care, and adoption, while also training child protection officials and enhancing inter-agency coordination.
- POSHAN Abhiyaan, launched in 2018, aims to improve the nutritional outcomes of children under six and pregnant/lactating women by leveraging technology, community engagement, and behaviour change communication.
- The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions inclusive and high-quality education from preschool through Grade 12, prioritising foundational literacy, vocational integration, curriculum flexibility, and multilingual learning.
- CHILD HELPLINE 1098, a toll-free 24×7 helpline for children in distress, operates across India to respond to cases of abuse, trafficking, and homelessness, providing immediate care and connecting children to long-term support systems.
- Lastly, Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao addresses gender-based discrimination and the declining child sex ratio by promoting girls’ survival, education, and empowerment through grassroots awareness and local government engagement.
Major Challenges still persist
Despite these strong legal protections, violations of child rights continue on a large scale. Some of the most pressing issues include:
Child Trafficking and Exploitation
Thousands of children in India fall prey to trafficking for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and illegal adoption. Often coming from vulnerable and impoverished communities, these children are lured with false promises and then exploited in unimaginable ways. Law enforcement and protection mechanisms are often inadequate, leading to underreporting and limited rescue operations.
Lack of Education and Healthcare
Millions of children still lack access to quality education and basic healthcare. The digital divide, poor infrastructure, and underfunded schools further exacerbate these issues.
Child Labour and Abuse
Although laws exist, child labour persists in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and domestic work. Abuse—both physical and emotional—is often hidden behind closed doors, unspoken and unchecked.
Gender Discrimination
Girls are often the most disadvantaged, facing early marriages, gender-based violence, and denial of education and health rights.
Role of Railway Children India NGO in Protecting Child Rights in India
Among the many organisations working tirelessly to protect child rights in India, Railway Children India stands out for its targeted and impactful approach, especially for children living on or around railway platforms—a high-risk group often overlooked.
Education & Skill Development
Railway Children India works to bring children back into schools, providing them with access to both formal and non-formal education. We also equip older children with vocational skills, empowering them to build a better future.
Rescue & Rehabilitation
Through partnerships with railway authorities, police, and child protection units, we rescue vulnerable children from trafficking and abuse. Our rehabilitation programs offer shelter, healthcare, and psychological support, helping children reintegrate into society.
Awareness Campaigns
Railway Children India also leads grassroots and community-level awareness initiatives, sensitising people about child protection laws and the rights of children. We work closely with stakeholders, including families, teachers, and local authorities, to create a protective environment for children.
How You Can Support Child Rights in India
Safeguarding children’s rights is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re an individual, a corporate entity, or part of a community, there are several ways you can help:
- Donating to NGOs Working for Child Welfare
Your children donation can help fund education, rescue missions, healthcare, and shelter for vulnerable children. Consider making a donation for kids through trusted children NGO platforms like Railway Children.
- Volunteering for Child Rights Initiatives
Volunteering your time and skills with child welfare organisations can have a profound impact. From tutoring to organising events and supporting operations, every contribution matters.
- Raising Awareness
Use your voice and platform—whether it’s social media, your workplace, or your local community—to talk about child rights in India. Spreading awareness is the first step toward action.
- Advocating for Stronger Enforcement
Support campaigns and petitions demanding stricter enforcement of existing child protection act laws. Hold authorities accountable and push for policy changes that prioritise children’s safety and development.
Change their Present, Protect India’s Future
Children are not just the future—they are the present. Ensuring their rights today lays the foundation for a more equitable and compassionate society tomorrow. The path is long and challenging, but with the support of individuals, communities, and organisations like Railway Children, progress is possible.
Every child deserves a safe, happy, and healthy future. Join us in making a difference!
