Invisible Childhood: Understanding the Lives of Destitute Children

Int. Jr. of Contemp. Res. in Multi. PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL Volume 4 Issue 6 [NovDec] Year 2025 194 © 2025 Dr. Ruchi Verma, Anu Masta. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY NC ND).https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Review Article Invisible Childhood: Understanding the Lives of Destitute Children Dr. Ruchi Verma 1, Anu Masta 2* 1 Assistant Professor, Department of Education (CDOE), Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India 2 Research Scholar, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India Corresponding Author: *Anu Masta DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17685646 Abstract Manuscript Information Invisible Childhood: Understanding the Lives of Destitute Children explores the largely overlooked realities of children who grow up without stable family support, adequate care, or access to basic rights. Despite their significant numbers, these children remain socially invisible due to systemic neglect, stigma, and minimal representation in policy frameworks and academic discourse. Their lives are shaped by multiple, overlapping vulnerabilities—extreme poverty, homelessness, child labour, abuse, and the absence of educational and healthcare opportunities—which hinder their overall development and restrict their chances of upward social mobility. At the same time, the study underscores the resilience and coping strategies that enable many of these children to maintain hope and aspirations for a better future. The Constitution of India acknowledges the vulnerability of children and affirms their right to protection. In line with the principle of protective discrimination, Article 15 mandates special attention to children through specific laws and policies designed to safeguard their rights. Furthermore, the rights to equality, life and personal liberty, and protection against exploitation, as guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 23, and 24, reaffirm India’s commitment to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all citizens, including children. The Directive Principles of State Policy further emphasise that the state must safeguard the health and strength of workers—both men and women—and protect children from exploitation and from being forced by economic necessity into unsuitable vocations. They also call for ensuring that children are provided opportunities to grow in a healthy environment, with freedom and dignity, while being protected against both moral and material neglect. In addition, the state is directed to strive toward universal early childhood care and education for all children up to the age of six years. ▪ ISSN No: 2583-7397 ▪ Received: 08-10-2025 ▪ Accepted: 13-11-2025 ▪ Published: 23-11-2025 ▪ IJCRM:4(6); 2025: 194-198 ▪ ©2025, All Rights Reserved ▪ Plagiarism Checked: Yes ▪ Peer Review Process: Yes How to Cite this Article Verma R, Masta A. Invisible Childhood: Understanding the Lives of Destitute Children. Int J Contemp Res Multidiscip. 2025;4(6):194-198. Access this Article Online www.multiarticlesjournal.com KEYWORDS: Invisible childhood, marginalised children, family disintegration, social stigma, child labour, community neglect, emotional deprivation, child rights, right to education, rehabilitation & reintegration. Int. Jr. of Contemp. Res. in Multi. PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL Volume 4 Issue 6 [NovDec] Year 2025 195 © 2025 Dr. Ruchi Verma, Anu Masta. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY NC ND).https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ INTRODUCTION Destitute children Although there is growing recognition that the home is the most natural and ideal environment for a child’s growth and development, certain circumstances can render the family unable to meet these developmental needs. Situations such as persistent financial hardship, family breakdown, lack of supportive relatives, the presence of severe disabilities, or inadequate housing conditions can compromise the nurturing environment essential for childhood, thereby undermining its very foundation. In such cases, the child’s world may become dysfunctional, failing to provide the supportive setting required for healthy growth and development. Destitute children represent one of the most vulnerable groups of young people, deprived of necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. This condition often arises from parental loss, incapacity, or abandonment, and is legally recognised under India’s Juvenile Justice Act. A child may be considered destitute under the following conditions: • Abandoned/Orphaned: Deprived of parental care due to death, absence, or surrender. • Extreme Poverty: Lacking essential needs such as food, clothing, shelter, or medical support. • Homelessness: Residing in unsafe or unsanitary environments, including slums or pavements. • Vulnerability: Experiencing neglect or hardship due to parental incapacity, disability, or imprisonment. Problems Faced by Destitute Children Destitute children encounter multiple, interrelated challenges that severely affect their survival, development, and future opportunities. These include malnutrition, lack of education, poor health, homelessness, exploitation, child labour, and heightened vulnerability to abuse. Living in unsanitary conditions without access to adequate nutrition, healthcare, or parental support, they face emotional and cognitive difficulties that perpetuate long-term health problems, limit educational and economic opportunities, and reinforce cycles of poverty. Health and Nutrition • Malnutrition: Inadequate nutrition leads to stunted physical and cognitive growth, weakened immunity, and conditions such as poor eyesight. • Illness and Disease: Unsanitary living environments, coupled with limited access to clean water and healthcare, make destitute children highly susceptible to preventable illnesses. Education and Development • Lack of Education: Many destitute children are deprived of quality schooling, reflected in high dropout rates, chronic absenteeism, and frequent school changes. • Cognitive Impairment: Malnutrition and lack of intellectual stimulation hinder cognitive development, reducing academic performance and limiting future opportunities. Safety and Protection • Abuse and Exploitation: These children face heightened risks of physical and sexual abuse, child labour, human trafficking, and even forced recruitment in conflict situations. • Homelessness: The absence of stable and affordable housing forces many into unsafe living conditions, further threatening their security and development. Social and Emotional Well-being • Emotional Instability: Without parental care and emotional support, destitute children are prone to psychological distress, with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and instability. • Discrimination: Poverty and homelessness expose children to social stigma and exclusion, limiting their access to rights, resources, and opportunities for integration. Strategies to Support Destitute Children Empowering destitute children requires a comprehensive approach that ensures access to education, skill development, healthcare, nutrition, and safe environments. Alongside meeting these basic needs, sustained change can be achieved through community involvement, policy advocacy, and individual contributions such as volunteering, sponsorship, and mentorship. Educational and Skill Development • Formal Education: Provide scholarships, free tuition, and essential learning materials to guarantee access to quality education. • Vocational Training: Establish skill-based training programs that prepare children for meaningful employment. • Digital Learning: Expand e-learning opportunities and ensure access to computers and the internet to reduce educational inequalities. • Life Skills: Teach practical skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking to foster independence and resilience. Health and Well-being • Healthcare Access: Organise free medical check-ups, health camps, and specialised treatments for children in need. • Nutrition Programs: Introduce mid-day meals and nutritional support to promote healthy growth and development. • Hygiene and Sanitation: Provide clean drinking water, proper sanitation facilities, and hygiene education. • Mental Health: Incorporate counselling and psychological support for children facing trauma, neglect, or instability. Int. Jr. of Contemp. Res. in Multi. PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL Volume 4 Issue 6 [NovDec] Year 2025 196 © 2025 Dr. Ruchi Verma, Anu Masta. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY NC ND).https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Safe Environments and Community Support • Safe Spaces: Create child-friendly shelters and community centres that offer security, learning, and recreation. • Community Engagement: Build strong partnerships and encourage local participation to create supportive networks for children. • Child Protection Policies: Advocate for and enforce protective measures within schools and institutions to prevent exploitation and abuse. Individual and Collective Action • Volunteering: Contribute time and expertise by mentoring, teaching, or supporting welfare programs. • Donations: Provide essential resources such as books, stationery, clothing, or technological tools. • Sponsorship: Support a child’s education or fund specific projects to directly enhance their stability and development. • Fundraising: Participate in or organise events, drives, or crowdfunding initiatives to generate financial support. • Advocacy: Promote systemic reforms that strengthen the rights and welfare of marginalised children. • Social Media Engagement: Use digital platforms to raise awareness, mobilise resources, and amplify the voices of underprivileged children. Challenges in Empowering Destitute Children The empowerment of destitute children is hindered by multiple barriers rooted in poverty, inequality, and systemic shortcomings. Chronic deprivation restricts access to food, education, and healthcare, while inadequate infrastructure, limited program funding, gender disparities, cultural prejudices, and a shortage of trained professionals further intensify their marginalisation. In addition, psychological trauma, low selfesteem, and constant exposure to risks of exploitation demand strong child protection systems. Socio-Economic Challenges • Poverty: Widespread poverty forces children into child labour and denies them access to necessities such as food, clean water, and healthcare. • Lack of Resources: Underprivileged communities often lack learning materials, safe schools, and functional facilities, creating an environment unsuitable for education. • Child Labour: Economic hardship pushes children into work, robbing them of education and perpetuating cycles of poverty. Educational Barriers • Inadequate Infrastructure: Many marginalised areas lack schools, libraries, electricity, and sanitation facilities necessary for quality learning. • Shortage of Teachers: The absence of qualified and childfriendly educators hampers the delivery of meaningful education. • Digital Divide: Limited or no access to technology prevents destitute children from benefiting from modern modes of learning. Socio-Cultural and Psychological Barriers • Gender Inequality: Girls face severe disadvantages due to early marriage, domestic labour, and discriminatory practices, restricting their educational and social opportunities. • Lack of Parental Awareness: Illiterate parents may fail to recognise the long-term benefits of education, leading to poor support for schooling. • Psychological Trauma: Destitute children often suffer from low self-esteem, anxiety, and trauma caused by harsh living conditions, necessitating specialised counselling and mental health interventions. Protection and Governance Issues • Abuse and Exploitation: Vulnerability to violence, trafficking, and exploitation underscores the need for robust child protection mechanisms. • Inadequate Funding: Child welfare initiatives frequently struggle with limited resources, short-term grants, and a lack of sustainable commitment. • Community Engagement: Efforts to involve community leaders are often obstructed by entrenched casteand gender-based prejudices. Constitutional Provisions for Child Protection and Welfare The Constitution of India provides a strong framework for the protection and development of children: • Article 14: Ensures equality before the law and equal protection of laws. • Article 15(3): Permits the state to make special provisions for women and children. • Article 21: Guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. • Article 21A: Mandates free and compulsory education for all children aged 6 to 14 years. • Article 23: Prohibits trafficking and forced labour. • Article 24: Forbids the employment of children below 14 years in hazardous occupations. • Articles 25–28: Protect freedom of conscience and religion. • Article 39 (e) & (f): Directs the state to prevent abuse of children’s health and strength, and to provide opportunities for growth in conditions of freedom and dignity while protecting them from exploitation and neglect. • Article 45: Directs the state to provide early childhood care and education for children up to six years of age. Int. Jr. of Contemp. Res. in Multi. PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL Volume 4 Issue 6 [NovDec] Year 2025 197 © 2025 Dr. Ruchi Verma, Anu Masta. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY NC ND).https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Policies for Child Welfare • The Children Act, 1960: The first major legislation addressing orphans and destitute children, classifying them as “neglected” children. Initially applicable to union territories. • National Policy on Children, 1974: Recognised children as a supremely important asset. It emphasised equality of opportunity, protection from neglect and exploitation, and special support for marginalised groups such as the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, and the economically weaker sections. It also highlighted the importance of education, training, and rehabilitation for children in distress. The policy is currently under revision with stakeholder collaboration. Schemes and Projects The Government of India, through various ministries and departments—particularly the Ministry of Women and Child Development—implements several child-focused schemes: • Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Provides care and protection to children in need, with an emphasis on strengthening families, preventing child homelessness, and rehabilitating children already outside the mainstream. • Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), 2009: An umbrella program offering services such as emergency outreach, shelter care, foster care, special homes, and a national platform for missing children. It targets orphans, destitute children, children of beggars or sex workers, and those living in slums or other vulnerable conditions. Juvenile Justice System in India The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, provides the primary legal framework for the care, protection, and rehabilitation of children in need, as well as for adjudicating cases involving children in conflict with the law. Grounded in constitutional provisions and aligned with the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Act sets 18 years as the uniform age for defining childhood and seeks to ensure justice, care, and developmental opportunities for all children. CONCLUSION Empowering destitute children remains one of the most pressing social challenges in India, given the complex interplay of poverty, social inequality, inadequate infrastructure, and psychological vulnerability. Despite significant constitutional safeguards, policies, and welfare schemes, these children continue to face barriers to education, health, safety, and holistic development. Addressing their needs requires a multidimensional approach that combines access to quality education, skill development, healthcare, nutrition, safe living environments, and psychosocial support. Equally important is the role of community participation, policy advocacy, and individual action, including volunteering, sponsorship, and mentorship, to create sustainable and meaningful change. Legal frameworks like the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, along with programs such as ICDS and ICPS, provide structured mechanisms for protection, rehabilitation, and development. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on effective implementation, adequate funding, trained personnel, and strong community engagement. Ultimately, empowering destitute children is not only a constitutional and moral imperative but also an investment in the nation’s future. Ensuring that every child has access to a nurturing environment, education, and growth opportunities will break cycles of poverty and exploitation, enabling them to realise their full potential and contribute positively to society. REFERENCE 1. Government of India. Constitution of India. Ministry of Law and Justice; 1950. Available from: https://legislative.gov.in/constitution-of-india 2. Government of India. The Children Act, 1960. Ministry of Law and Justice; 1960. Available from: https://wcd.nic.in 3. Government of India. National Policy on Children, 1974. Ministry of Women and Child Development; 1974. Available from: https://wcd.nic.in 4. Government of India. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). Ministry of Women and Child Development; 1975. Available from: https://wcd.nic.in 5. Government of India. Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000. Ministry of Women and Child Development; 2000. Available from: https://wcd.nic.in/juvenile-justice 6. 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This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY NC ND).https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 11. Save the Children. Ending child poverty and deprivation: A global report. Save the Children; 2020. Available from: https://www.savethechildren.org 12. Save the Children. Child poverty and deprivation in India: Challenges and interventions. Save the Children; 2020. Available from: https://www.savethechildren.in Creative Commons (CC) License This article is an open-access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) license. This license permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. About the Corresponding Author Anu Masta is a Research Scholar at Himachal Pradesh University, Summerhill, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. Her research focuses on child welfare, vulnerability, and social protection of destitute children. She contributes to contemporary scholarship through studies addressing childhood deprivation, social inclusion, and rights-based approaches to child development.