Children are integral to our nation’s future, yet many face neglect and abuse. The Constitution of India recognizes their rights, and the government has implemented legal frameworks to protect them. In Rajasthan, the Child Resource Centre (CRC) stands as a beacon, supported by UNICEF and the Department for Child Rights. The Child Resource Centre (CRC) is a strategic initiative with a focus on the capacity building of all stakeholders in child protection systems and the creation of a knowledge hub. It is a joint venture of the Department of Child Rights, Rajasthan, and the Harish Chandra Mathur Rajasthan State Institute of Public Administration (HCM RIPA) with technical partner UNICEF Rajasthan.
Vision
To facilitate child-friendly governance towards creating an enabling environment to help children develop with their best potential
Mission
To strengthen child protection systems for the promotion of child rights through capacity building and dissemination of information
Purpose
To identify gaps and address capacity constraints at various levels in child protection systems and structures;
To conceptualize and implement capacity-building programmes for different actors in child protection;
To mainstream child rights in different levels of government and non-government service structures;
To integrate innovative approaches for strengthening child protection systems;
CRC Genesis
In 2009, the Government of India introduced the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) to ensure the safety and welfare of children. Evolving from ICPS, “Mission Vatsalya” was launched in 2021, operating alongside the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015. Recognizing the critical importance of child welfare, Rajasthan took a pioneering step by establishing an independent Department for Child Rights, affirming its dedication to safeguarding children.
To strengthen the Juvenile Justice system and Mission Vatsalya, the Juvenile Justice Act 2015 emphasized capacity building. Consequently, the Department for Child Rights, HCM Rajasthan State Institute of Public Administration, and UNICEF jointly established the Child Resource Centre (CRC) in 2016. Aligned with Mission Vatsalya’s goals, CRC aims to enhance child protection through research, documentation, and training initiatives.
CRC’s primary objective is to create a conducive environment for children by gathering valuable data to inform policies and interventions. It focuses on developing a cadre of professionals proficient in child protection while enhancing stakeholder capacities. Adopting a collaborative approach, CRC fosters partnerships with government departments and organizations, integrating child protection into various policies and programs.
Through its documentation, research, and collaboration efforts, CRC significantly contributes to Mission Vatsalya’s objectives, ensuring a secure future for children and positively impacting society. It acknowledges the pivotal role of child protection in shaping a better future for the nation, underscoring its commitment to advancing child welfare in Rajasthan.