Karnataka HC directs mission Vatsalya Yojana funding | Azad Times

Photo Credit : News Karnataka

Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to promptly submit a proposal to the central government for the required financial assistance to effectively implement the Centre-sponsored Mission Vatsalya Yojana in the state, following directives from the Supreme Court prompted by a petition from the non-governmental organization Bachpan Bachao Andolan.
In response to these directives, the High Court proactively launched a public interest petition regarding their implementation. The division bench, headed by Chief Justice Prasanna Balachandra Varale and Justice Krishna S. Dixit, issued this notice during the proceedings and then adjourned the hearing.
Additionally, the bench has granted permission to both the central and state governments to present crucial plans for the efficient execution of the Mission Vatsalya Scheme. The bench inquired whether the state government has already forwarded a proposal to the central government and, if not, sought an explanation for the delay. Furthermore, the bench has instructed the state government to provide a plan for the forthcoming year and share a copy with the court. In case of the state government not responding to the Centre’s notice, the bench has mandated the submission of a comprehensive plan within the next week.
The Mission Vatsalya Yojana, initiated by the Central Government, is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and has the overarching objective of holistic development and protection of children. Under this initiative, the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has directed all states to submit financial proposals and plans by June 5, 2022. The scheme also encompasses the implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012 and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2005, both aimed at safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. States are required to submit proposals for child protection, secure financial backing from the central government, and carry out the scheme in accordance with the provided directives.