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In a groundbreaking effort to make sure every child is recognized, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has kicked off "Project SAATHI"—a nationwide initiative designed to provide Aadhaar cards and comprehensive welfare support to underprivileged children throughout India. This campaign addresses the pressing need for legal identity among kids living on the streets, in care facilities, or those rescued from trafficking and child labor, who often miss out on education, healthcare, and social welfare programs simply because they lack proper documentation.
Key Highlights:
Mission-Mode Campaign: Project SAATHI (Survey for Aadhaar and Access to Tracking & Holistic Inclusion) is being implemented in stages across all districts, with dedicated SAATHI Committees established under District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs).
Comprehensive Survey & Identification: Teams made up of legal officers, child protection officials, health and education representatives, and NGOs are working to map and identify destitute children found in streets, shelters, orphanages, and transit points.
On-the-Spot Aadhaar Registration: Special camps are being set up in partnership with UIDAI to facilitate biometric enrollment and the immediate issuance of Aadhaar cards, along with ration cards and other essential legal documents.
Legal Aid & Welfare Linkages: Children are being connected to government schemes under the Right to Education Act, Juvenile Justice Act, POCSO, and various social security programs. Legal support is available to help with documentation and accessing benefits.
Monitoring & Rehabilitation: The campaign includes ongoing tracking, digital documentation, and follow-ups to ensure long-term inclusion, focusing on school admissions, health screenings, and financial assistance—like a ₹4,000 monthly scholarship for rescued children in certain districts.
Public Participation & Awareness: Citizens are encouraged to report destitute children to the authorities, with outreach efforts through media and collaboration with local volunteers, ASHA and Anganwadi workers, and law students.
Addressing Bureaucratic Hurdles: While some NGOs have faced red tape in Aadhaar enrolment for destitute individuals, the campaign aims to streamline processes and resolve such issues at the district level.
Project SAATHI is being hailed as a transformative step towards ensuring that no child is left behind, granting them the dignity of identity and access to a brighter, more secure future.
Source: Patna High Court SAATHI Campaign Document, Drishti IAS, Times of India (Mysuru Edition)
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