In a remarkable achievement, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has rescued a total of 84,119 vulnerable children across various Indian Railway Zones over the past seven years through its dedicated operation, ‘Nanhe Faristey.’ Launched to provide care and protection to at-risk children, this initiative has become a lifeline for thousands, highlighting the RPF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
A Year-by-Year Breakdown of Rescues
Since its inception in 2018, ‘Nanhe Faristey’ has shown consistent results. In its first year, the RPF rescued 17,112 children, with 13,187 identified as runaways. The operation revealed alarming statistics, including 2,105 missing children, 1,091 left behind, and 400 classified as destitute. The urgent need for such an initiative was evident, setting a strong foundation for the years to come.
In 2019, the RPF continued its efforts, rescuing 15,932 children, including 12,708 runaways. Despite the persistent challenges, these numbers underscored the ongoing crisis of children needing protection.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed significant challenges to operations, yet the RPF managed to rescue 5,011 children, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. The following year saw a resurgence, with 11,907 children rescued in 2021, highlighting the importance of the initiative.
The year 2022 marked a peak in the operation, with 17,756 rescues, the highest recorded. Increased awareness and coordinated efforts across railway zones contributed to this success, with 14,603 children identified as runaways.
In 2023, the RPF rescued 11,794 children, maintaining its crucial role in child protection. Early 2024 data shows that 4,607 children have already been rescued in just five months, indicating the ongoing commitment to the mission.
Supporting Framework and Future Goals
The RPF’s success is supported by the ‘Track Child Portal,’ which contains comprehensive details about vulnerable children. Additionally, the Indian Railways has established child help desks at over 135 railway stations to assist in these efforts. Rescued children are handed over to the District Child Welfare Committee, which ensures their safe return to families.
As ‘Nanhe Faristey’ continues to evolve, the RPF remains dedicated to adapting to new challenges, striving to create a safer environment for children across India’s extensive railway network. The operation not only rescues children but also raises awareness about the plight of runaways and missing children, prompting further action and support from various stakeholders.
Through these ongoing efforts, the RPF is making significant strides in protecting and empowering vulnerable children in India.