Abstract

In India, the fate of abandoned or parentless children rests upon the shoulders of the government, necessitating intervention when familial care is absent. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns have escalated regarding the rising number of children orphaned or
abandoned due to the crisis. Recent media reports have underscored the fluctuating estimates of these vulnerable children, indicating a worrying trend. Drawing from data provided by the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, a retrospective analysis reveals a staggering 1,742 children losing both parents during the pandemic period. However, this number likely under represents the true extent of the issue, with ongoing data compilation processes across states. Remarkably, of the 9,346 children affected during the same timeframe, only a mere 3.9% resided in institutional care, emphasizing the reliance on guardians, family members, or surviving parents for support. A Retrospective Web Metanalysis conducted between July 2020 and July 2023 delved into the impact of COVID-19 on parentless children, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive
policy interventions.

This research endeavors to influence national policies concerning the care and support of    vulnerable children, advocating for direct financial assistance to mitigate their hardships. By addressing these challenges, the aim is to ensure a brighter future for these children, facilitating their integration into nurturing environments where they can flourish despite adversity.

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Data Sharing Statement

Funding