look news india
For the last seven years, the Railway Protection Force has been leading an operation called 'Nanhe Farishtey'. It is a mission dedicated to rescuing distressed children in various zones of the Indian Railways. In the last seven years from 2018 to 2024, the RPF has rescued 84,119 children at risk at stations and trains.
In 2018, 'Operation Nanhe Farishtey' was launched
'Nanhe Farishtey' is more than an operation, it is a lifeline for thousands of children who find themselves in dire circumstances. The data from 2018 to 2024 tells a story of unwavering dedication, adaptability and struggle. Each rescue is a testimony to RPF's commitment to the protection of the most vulnerable members of society. The year 2018 marked a significant beginning for 'Operation Nanhe Farishtey'. This year, RPF has rescued a total of 17,112 child victims including boys and girls. Out of the 17,112 rescued children, 13,187 were identified as runaway children, 2105 reported missing, 1091 separated, 400 reported as destitute, 87 kidnapped, 78 mentally challenged and 131 homeless children. The operation laid a strong foundation in 2018.
The year 2020 has been extremely challenging
During the year 2019, the efforts of RPF continued to be successful and a total of 15,932 children including both boys and girls were rescued. Out of the 15,932 rescued children, 12,708 were identified as runaways, 1454 missing, 1036 separated, 350 destitute, 56 kidnapped, 123 mentally challenged and 171 homeless.
The year 2020 was challenging due to the Covid pandemic which disrupted normal life and significantly impacted operations. Despite these challenges, RPF managed to rescue 5,011 children. During the year 2021, RPF saw a revival in its rescue operations, rescuing 11,907 children. The year also witnessed a significant increase in the number of children found and protected, with 9601 children identified as runaways, 961 missing, 648 lost, 370 destitute, 78 kidnapped, 82 mentally challenged and 123 street children.
In the year 2023, RPF was successful in saving 11,794 children
During the year 2023, RPF was successful in rescuing 11,794 children. Out of them, 8916 were runaway children, 986 were missing, 1055 were separated, 236 were destitute, 156 were abducted, 112 were mentally challenged and 237 were street children. RPF played a vital role in protecting and taking good care of these vulnerable children. In the first five months of 2024, RPF has rescued 4,607 children. With 3430 runaway children rescued, the initial trends testify to the continued commitment to Operation 'Nanhe Farishte'. These numbers reflect both the continuing problem of runaway children and RPF's efforts to return them safely to their parents.
Through its efforts, RPF has not only rescued children but also created awareness about the plight of runaway and missing children, leading to further action and support from various stakeholders. RPF is constantly expanding its operational horizon, facing new challenges every day and striving to create a safe environment for children across India's vast railway network. Complete information about children is available on the Track Child portal. Child helpdesks are available at over 135 railway stations. The District Child Welfare Committee hands over the children to their parents.
