BS EDIT: Securing India’s Children

By Business StandardPublished On Nov 27, 2025

A Heavy Burden of Deprivation

206 million Indian children face at least one deprivation. One third face two or more, spanning health, nutrition, education, housing, and sanitation

New Pressures on Childhood

Four in five children worldwide face extreme climate risks. Conflict exposure is rising, and aid cuts threaten schooling and child survival

Budget Limits and Gaps

While allocations continue, the ministry’s share of central spending has halved since 2015-16. Weak implementation reduces the impact of funding

Inequities Deepen Risks

Digital exclusion, urban slum conditions, and climate shocks disrupt learning and basic services, leaving the poorest children most vulnerable

Kerala Shows What Works

Kerala’s community-led anganwadi committees show how decentralisation and local ownership can strengthen child welfare and outcomes

What India Needs Now

Universal digital access, stronger social protection, and coordinated ministries are essential to reach the last mile and secure children’s rights