Delhi Launches Aftercare Scheme for Young Persons

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the Aftercare Scheme for Young Persons on 10 May 2026. The Delhi government has allocated Rs 3.5 crore for the scheme in the 2026-27 financial year. The scheme applies to young persons leaving childcare institutions and orphanages after attaining 18 years of age.

Aftercare under Juvenile Justice Law

The scheme functions under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. The Women and Child Development Department will implement the scheme in Delhi. Aftercare provisions in child welfare law cover support for persons who have crossed the age of 18 years and need assistance for independent living.

Eligibility and Support Components

Eligible beneficiaries will receive assistance for higher education, skill development, vocational training programmes, internships, and employment opportunities. The scheme also provides a monthly stipend, mentoring, counselling, career guidance, and rehabilitation support. Beneficiaries will be identified through need-based assessments, and individual care plans will be prepared for each eligible person.

Institutional Framework and Facilities

A State Aftercare Committee headed by the Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department will oversee policy-making, monitoring, and supervision. District-level committees will also function under the scheme. Delhi has 88 Child Care Institutions, and about 150 to 200 young adults leave these institutions every year. The city also has two aftercare homes, one for boys and one for girls, which provide accommodation, food, and educational support for persons above 18 years of age.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 is the principal law for child care and protection in India.
• Child Care Institutions in India include homes for children in need of care and protection.
• Aftercare support generally begins after a person attains 18 years of age.
• Women and Child Development departments in states and Union Territories handle several child welfare and rehabilitation programmes.