Project JeevanJyot 2.0: Task force to protect child rights, end begging in districts
After the legal action against child begging, where two women and a man were taken into custody by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) yesterday, the Punjab State Child Rights Commission (PSCRC) today launched Project JeevanJyot 2.0, a transformative initiative dedicated to the protection, welfare and rights of children across the state.
Gunjeet Ruchi Bawa, vice-chairperson of the commission, announced that all districts have been directed to establish a district-level task force for child protection to ensure the effective implementation of the project. Each task force will be chaired by the Deputy Commissioner and include key officials such as the Commissioner/Superintendent of Police, Civil Surgeon, District Education Officer and District Labour Officer. These task forces will receive comprehensive support and coordination to ensure effective implementation of the project.
A detailed standard operating procedure (SOP) has been circulated to all districts, outlining structured guidelines for the implementation of Project JeevanJyot 2.0. A significant provision within the SOP mandates DNA testing to verify the biological parentage of children found begging with adults—a critical step toward identifying and addressing cases of child exploitation and trafficking.
Bawa emphasised the urgent need for collective responsibility in child protection and called upon all stakeholders—including government officials, law enforcement agencies, educators, healthcare providers and civil society organisations—to work in close collaboration.
“Project JeevanJyot 2.0 is a crucial step in our mission to safeguard the rights of children and eliminate all forms of exploitation. Through the creation of district-level task forces and the enforcement of strong verification mechanisms, we aim to build a system that protects and uplifts every child. This initiative reflects our shared responsibility as a society to ensure that no child is left behind,” she said.
The commission reiterated its commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for every child in Punjab and urged prompt action and full cooperation from all districts for the successful execution of Project JeevanJyot 2.0.
Meanwhile, the District Child Protection Unit has been instructed to amplify its rescue and rehabilitation programmes for children in need, including those involved in child begging and labour. As a standard practice, the DCPU members are accountable for rescue, immediate rehab and medical check-up of children found living on the streets.
Last month, Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development Baljit Kaur had issued directions to all deputy commissioners to declare their respective districts as ‘beggar-free’ and ensure regular monitoring in this regard.
Amritsar