Yogi govt to launch 18 new Child Helpline units across UP

Lucknow : Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh has taken significant strides to ensure child safety and support. Strengthening the Child Helpline (1098) under Mission Vatsalya, the Yogi government is set to launch 18 new units—9 at railway stations and 9 at bus stands—to expand its reach and effectiveness.

Under the Mission Vatsalya Yojana, the Child Helpline has been providing 24×7 assistance to children across Uttar Pradesh since the financial year 2023–24. Currently, the system includes a state-level control room, dedicated units in all 75 districts, 19 units at railway stations, and 2 at bus stands. This initiative is emerging as a milestone in ensuring swift support and protection for children in need.

Prioritizing child safety, the Yogi government is working to make the 24×7 Child Helpline service more effective and accessible. This vital support system has become a lifeline for children in crisis, ensuring no child is left alone during emergencies. The establishment of 19 railway station units and 2 bus stand units has further strengthened protection for vulnerable children in transit, offering them a greater sense of security.
In close coordination with the Government of India, the Yogi government has effectively expanded the Child Helpline network. As per the Department of Women and Child Development, 9 new railway station units and 9 new bus stand units have been approved for the financial year 2024–25. Work is already underway to make these units operational, further strengthening the reach of the helpline. This initiative will be especially crucial for children found in vulnerable or unsafe conditions at public places like railway stations and bus stands.

The Child Helpline has become a vital lifeline for children in crisis, offering immediate assistance, counseling, and safe shelter. Operating 24×7, the helpline provides support ranging from police and medical aid to legal assistance, emotional support, and rehabilitation. Any child in distress can dial 1098 from anywhere to seek help. The service also plays a key role in reuniting lost or runaway children with their families or communities.

Since its inception, the helpline has received over 10.05 lakh calls, with the Yogi government ensuring prompt assistance to 96,012 children in need.