Bal Sakha Yojana is a community-driven program for support and protection for children in need of care. The Department of Women and Child Development initiated this scheme with the support of NHM and the State Child Protection Society for children aged 0-18 years to ensure their development and protection.
Objectives
The scheme is implemented through a network of trained volunteers called “Bal Sakhis,” who operate in sub-centres across rural and urban areas with the following aims:
- Identifying and reporting cases of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Providing direct support and guidance to families.
- Ensuring the overall welfare of children.
Benefits
- Expert Care to Newborns
- Pediatricians perform early neonatal care, including immunizations at birth and nutrition counseling.
- Focus on Vulnerable Children
- Specifically targets children from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and Scheduled Caste (SC) categories.
- Financial Assistance
- Provides further financial support to children who require care and protection.
Eligibility
Beneficiaries Who Are Eligible:
- Infants:
- Age: 30 days or less.
- Economic Conditions:
- Tribals from BPL families.
- SC families that do not pay income tax.
Application Procedure
- Contact Local Authorities:
- Approach ASHA workers or Anganwadi centers in rural or urban areas.
- District Authorities:
- Connect with the DDO/CDHO for assistance.
- Application Form at Hospital:
- Obtain the application form directly from the hospital where the baby was born.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (Identity proof).
- BPL Card/Ration Card (Proof of economic status).
- Scheduled Caste Certificate (If applicable).
- Authorization by Local Authority (Certification from a recognized official).
- Income Certificate (Proof of income status).
- Application Form (Available at hospitals or local health centres).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of care does the Bal Sakha Yojana provide to newborn babies?
The scheme provides advanced neonatal care, including immunizations, nutrition counseling, and general well-being check-ups by pediatricians. - Who provides care to newborns eligible under Bal Sakha Yojana?
Eligible pediatricians deliver neonatal services to ensure newborn survival and overall health. - What is the role of Bal Sakha Yojana towards child health?
The scheme aims to improve child health by ensuring proper neonatal care, immunization, and nutritional guidance, reducing infant mortality rates. - Does the Bal Sakha Yojana cover all newborn babies?
No, it specifically covers newborns from BPL families and Scheduled Caste categories who meet the eligibility criteria. - Can children born at home apply for the Bal Sakha Yojana?
Yes, children born at home can also apply, but they must qualify and present all the necessary documents. - What should a woman do in case of difficulties while availing the Bal Sakha Yojana?
She can contact:- ASHA workers or Anganwadi centres.
- District Development Officer (DDO) or Chief District Health Officer (CDHO) to resolve the problem.
- Is authorization by a locally accepted authority required?
Yes, it is a certificate issued by a recognized official, confirming the applicant’s eligibility. It is mandatory for the application process. - Where can women find the application form for the Bal Sakha Yojana?
The form is available at hospitals, ASHA workers, and Anganwadi centres.