The Indian state of Keralam is to carry out a statewide survey to identify children living in vulnerable conditions, The Hindu reports, after the death of a two-year-old in Alappuzha from suspected malnutrition.
The decision was taken on Friday at a meeting chaired by the state's Women and Child Development minister, Bindhu Krishna. Once children are identified, local government, health and police departments will work together on their protection and rehabilitation, with district officers held fully responsible for their safety.
Child protection committees from district to village level are to meet regularly, and care plans will be drawn up for every child in a care home. Officials were told that a lack of cooperation from parents should not stop action, and that children's nutrition and growth will be monitored, with urgent help where neglect is found.
Source: The Hindu National
