Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta Interacts with Children under PM CARES for Children Scheme

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta today interacted with children registered under the PM CARES for Children Scheme at the Delhi Secretariat. The interaction was organised with the objective of ensuring supportive, protective and sensitive care for children who lost their parents, legal guardians or adoptive parents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the interaction, the Chief Minister engaged with the children in a warm and empathetic manner and enquired about their education, health, housing and emotional well-being. Assuring them of all possible assistance, she said that the Delhi Government does not view these children merely as beneficiaries of a scheme, but considers them members of its own family.

Expressing affection, Smt. Rekha Gupta presented chocolates to the children and introduced each child to the respective District Magistrate, thereby reinforcing the assurance that the administration stands with them at every level. District Magistrates, senior officers and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Reiterating the Delhi Government’s full commitment to the effective implementation of all provisions of the PM CARES for Children Scheme, the Chief Minister said that the government’s objective is not limited to providing immediate assistance, but also to guiding these children towards a safe, dignified and self-reliant life.

She informed that the PM CARES for Children Scheme is being implemented effectively in Delhi. Under the scheme, District Magistrates have been appointed as nodal officers and are acting as guardians for the children, ensuring continuous monitoring and care.

*PM CARES for Children Scheme*

The PM CARES for Children Scheme was launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 29 May 2021. The scheme is intended for children who lost their parents, legal guardians or adoptive parents during the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020.

The primary objective of the scheme is to ensure comprehensive care and protection of children, promote their holistic development through education and healthcare, and enable them to become financially self-reliant upon attaining the age of 23 years. The scheme provides various forms of support, including financial assistance, healthcare, education and housing, thereby ensuring both immediate protection and long-term development of the children.