Exploring the role of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) in ensuring overall development of Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) in Jammu and Kashmir
Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) are among the most vulnerable segments of society, often subjected to trauma, abuse, abandonment, and neglect. The provision of comprehensive mental health care and holistic development services through Child Care Institutions (CCIs) is critical to safeguarding their well-being and future. This article explores the significance of mental health, the role of CCIs in Jammu and Kashmir, and the challenges and recommendations for ensuring the overall development of CNCP.
Introduction:
Mental health is a crucial aspect of child development, particularly for vulnerable children residing in Child Care Institutions (CCIs). Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP), as defined under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, include orphans, abandoned children, street children, victims of abuse, and those facing neglect or exploitation. Addressing the mental health needs of these children is essential for their emotional, cognitive, and social development.
The Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir, like the rest of India, implements the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which provides the legal framework for the care, protection, and rehabilitation of CNCP. CCIs play a pivotal role in offering a nurturing environment where children can heal and thrive.
Mental Health: A Fundamental Aspect of Child Development
Mental health encompasses a child’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how children think, feel, and behave, and influences their ability to:
Build relationships
Manage emotions
Perform academically
Overcome adversity
According to the UNICEF Report on Child Well-being (2023), nearly 14% of children worldwide experience mental health disorders. The prevalence is significantly higher among children facing poverty, violence, or displacement.
In Jammu and Kashmir, where political instability, poverty, and social disruptions have impacted family structures, children often experience trauma that can affect their mental health.
Role of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) in Promoting Mental Health and Development.
CCIs are mandated under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and Mission Vatsalya Scheme to provide comprehensive care, protection, and rehabilitation services to CNCP. Their role in promoting mental health and overall development can be outlined as follows:
- Psychosocial Support and Counseling Services
One of the primary responsibilities of CCIs is to provide psychosocial support to children dealing with trauma and emotional distress. Trained counsellors and social workers are appointed to:
Conduct individual and group counseling sessions
Identify signs of mental health issues (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
Provide trauma-informed care
Refer children to mental health professionals if needed
In Jammu and Kashmir, the Mission Vatsalya Scheme has played a crucial role in providing funding for mental health interventions within CCIs.
- Safe and Nurturing Environment
Creating a nurturing environment is essential for promoting mental well-being. CCIs in Jammu and Kashmir are required to:
Ensure child-friendly infrastructure
Maintain hygienic and safe living spaces
Implement zero-tolerance policies for abuse and neglect
Foster trust and emotional security among children
According to the Department of Social Welfare, J&K (2024), the UT currently operates 55 CCIs, with 1,104 children residing across these institutions.
- Education and Vocational Training
Education empowers children and improves their self-esteem and future prospects. CCIs collaborate with local schools and vocational training centres to:
Enroll children in formal education
Provide special coaching classes
Offer vocational training in tailoring, carpentry, and computers(in a few CCSs)
Conduct life skills training sessions
- Health Care Services
Regular health check-ups, including mental health screenings, are essential for the early identification and treatment of psychological issues. CCIs in Jammu and Kashmir are required to:
Conduct routine physical and mental health check-ups
Collaborate with government health departments
Provide access to psychiatrists and psychologists
- Recreational and Therapeutic Activities
Engaging children in recreational activities contributes to their emotional healing. CCIs organize:
Art and music therapy sessions
Yoga and meditation classes
Outdoor sports and games
Group discussions and storytelling sessions
Such activities play a crucial role in reducing anxiety and fostering social bonds.
Challenges in Addressing Mental Health Needs in CCIs
Despite the crucial role of CCIs, several challenges hinder their ability to effectively address the mental health needs of CNCPs in Jammu and Kashmir:
Shortage of trained mental health professionals
Limited funding for mental health services
The stigma surrounding mental health issues
High staff turnover rates due to low pay, lack of career advancement
Inadequate infrastructure in some CCIs
According to the Kashmir Life Report (2025), only two CCIs in Jammu and Kashmir cater specifically to children with special needs, highlighting the need for more specialized care facilities.
Policy Framework and Government Initiatives
After the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 replaced the J&K Juvenile Justice Act, 2013 in the UT. This transition aligned the child protection laws of Jammu and Kashmir with national standards.
Key Government Initiatives:
- Mission vatsalya (2022)
Main objective: comprehensive care, protection and rehabilitation of CNCP.
- Tele-MANAS (2023):
MAIN OBJECTIVE: Tele-counseling for mental health services
- Specialised Adoption agencies (2024):
Main objective: Adoption services for orphans
Recommendations
To improve mental health services in CCIs, the following recommendations are proposed:
- Capacity Building: Regular training programs for CCI staff on child psychology and trauma care.
- Mental Health Specialists: Appointment of dedicated counsellors and psychologists in every CCI.
- Community Partnerships: Collaboration with NGOs and mental health organizations.
- Sensitization Campaigns: Awareness programs to reduce mental health stigma among children and staff.
- Specialized Homes: Establishment of more CCIs catering to children with special needs.
Conclusion
Mental health is a cornerstone of holistic child development, particularly for vulnerable children residing in CCIs. In Jammu and Kashmir, CCIs play a crucial role in rehabilitating CNCPs by offering care, protection, and psychosocial support. However, the effectiveness of these institutions is hampered by systemic challenges, including the lack of mental health professionals and inadequate infrastructure.
Strengthening mental health services, fostering community collaborations, and building staff capacities are vital steps towards ensuring the overall development of CNCP. With consistent government support and community involvement, CCIs can transform into safe havens where children not only recover from trauma but also thrive and realize their full potential.
The writer is the Superintendent CCI, Palaashshopian (Mission Vatsalya Government of J&K)
Khan Sameer
kh*****************@***il.com