Dr. Baljit Kaur also appealed to the public to report any instance of child begging to the Child Helpline 1098
Punjab Rescues 704 Children from Child Begging Under Project ‘Jiwanjyot’ & DNA testing under ‘Jiwanjyot 2.0’to curb trafficking
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur, the Punjab Government has rescued 704 children from child begging across the state under its flagship initiatives Project JIWANJYOT and Project JIWANJYOT 2.0. The projects aim to rehabilitate rescued children and ensure them a safe, dignified, and hopeful future.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said the initiative reflects the state government’s strong commitment to strengthening child protection mechanisms and eradicating child begging in Punjab.
Launched in July 2024, Project ‘Jiwanjyot’ is being implemented in all districts through monthly rescue drives conducted during the second week of every month. “The rescued children are being rehabilitated through suitable welfare schemes depending on their age, eligibility, and availability of documents,” Dr. Kaur said.
Crackdown on Human Trafficking and Begging Rackets:
To further strengthen child protection efforts, the Punjab Government launched Project ‘Jiwanjyot’ 2.0, focusing on preventing human trafficking and dismantling organized begging rackets. Under this initiative, DNA tests are conducted to verify the relationship between rescued children and accompanying adults. If the DNA results do not match, FIRs are registered and strict legal action is taken against offenders.
Rehabilitation and Welfare Measures:
Of the 704 rescued children, 269 have been enrolled in schools, 15 admitted to Anganwadi centres, 43 benefited under the Sponsorship Scheme, and15 covered under various health schemes.
Dr. Kaur emphasized that every child deserves a safe and dignified childhood. “Through Project JIWANJYOT, the Punjab Government is not only rescuing children from exploitation but also ensuring that they are provided education, healthcare, and a future filled with hope.” she said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, she added that the Punjab Government is dedicated to protecting every child’s right to education, health, and dignity, and to creating a begging-free and safe environment for all children in the state.”
Dr. Baljit Kaur also appealed to the public to report any instance of child begging to the Child Helpline 1098, enabling swift rescue and rehabilitation.
“Let us join hands to make Punjab a child-begging-free state, where every child enjoys a safe, secure, and dignified childhood,” she said.
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