Cradle Baby Scheme

Cradle Baby Scheme

Introduction The “Cradle Baby Scheme” was introduced in the year 1992 in the Salem district of Tamilnadu. This scheme has been recognized all over India and other countries. Under this scheme, cradles are placed at locations like Hospitals, Primary Health Centers, Orphanages and Children Homes which are likely to receive female children which are abandoned by their parents due to social circumstances like debts, future financial commitments, females are prone to sexual violations etc.

What are the objectives of the scheme? To eradicate the female infanticide is the objective of the scheme.

What is the assistance provided under this scheme? Children received at the cradle points are handed over to reception centers for rehabilitation. The baby’s received through this scheme in the reception centers are rehabilitated and handed over to the licensed adoption agencies to be taken care and also to enable them to find a family who are willing to adopt these children.

Who are the beneficiaries under this scheme? The deserted, abandoned and surrendered babies are benefited under this scheme.

For the year 2010-2011 what is the budget estimated to be allocated for this scheme? For the year 2010-2011 Rs.2.99 Lakh has been allocated in the budget for the beneficiaries under this scheme.

Which districts in Tamilnadu the female infanticide is greatly practiced? The female infanticide is greatly practiced in Salem, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul and Dharmapuri districts of Tamilnadu.

What type of services are provided to the differently abled children under this scheme? The differently abled children who are unable to be given in for adoption are handed over to specialized agencies for care and protection.

From the year 1992 to 2010 how many infants have been benefited under this scheme? From the year 1992 to 2010, 3622 babies out of which 3093 children are female infants who are benefited under this scheme. These infants are rehabilitated and handed over to the licensed adoption centers.

What are the service delivery points under this scheme? The service delivery points under this scheme are reception centers, District social welfare board offices, District Collectorates, Government hospitals, Primary health centers and sub health centers. The reception centers are setup at Madurai, Theni, Salem, Dindigul and Dharmapuri districts of Tamilnadu.

Who are the officials to be contacted by the beneficiaries for availing the scheme? The District social welfare officer and extention officers (Social welfare)

Where should the grievance to be addressed? The grievances may be addressed to: 1.          The Director, Tamilnadu State social Welfare Board, Chepauk, Chennai 600 005. 2.          District Collector 3.          District Social Welfare Officer.