Code: Section 45 — Sponsorship
(1) The State Government shall make rules for the purpose of undertaking various programmes of sponsorship of children, such as individual to individual sponsorship, group sponsorship or community sponsorship.
(2) The criteria for sponsorship shall include:
(i) where the mother is a widow or divorced or abandoned by the family;
(ii) where children are orphaned and are living with the extended family;
(iii) where parents are victims of life-threatening disease;
(iv) where parents are incapacitated due to accident and unable to take care of children both financially and physically.
(3) The duration of sponsorship shall be such as may be prescribed.
(4) The sponsorship programme may provide supplementary support to families, to Children’s Homes and to special homes to meet medical, nutritional, educational and other needs of the children, with a view to improving their quality of life.
Explanation of Section 45
Section 45 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act empowers the State Government to create rules and guidelines for various forms of child sponsorship. The core objective of this section is to offer financial and material support to children who are vulnerable or lack adequate family care.
This support can come in three forms:
- Individual-to-individual sponsorship
- Group sponsorship
- Community-based sponsorship
The section identifies specific situations where children may be eligible for sponsorship, such as:
- The mother is a widow, divorced, or abandoned
- Orphaned children living with extended family
- Parents suffering from life-threatening diseases
- Parents incapacitated due to accidents and unable to care for the child
The sponsorship aims to provide supplementary aid for essentials like education, nutrition, healthcare, and overall well-being. The duration of support is to be determined as per prescribed rules.
Illustration
Example 1: Widow-Led Family Support
A woman is widowed and left to care for her two children with no stable income. Under Section 45, the family becomes eligible for individual sponsorship. The government, through a designated scheme, provides monthly support to cover educational and medical needs.
Example 2: Orphaned Children with Relatives
Three orphaned siblings live with their maternal uncle. Though he offers shelter, he struggles financially. A group sponsorship program assists with their education, food, and healthcare.
Common Questions and Answers on Section 45
1. What is the purpose of child sponsorship under Section 45?
The main aim is to provide additional support to vulnerable children so they can grow up in a secure and nurturing environment, whether at home or in a care institution.
2. Who decides the eligibility for sponsorship?
Eligibility is determined by State Government rules and is based on criteria such as parental illness, death, or inability to care for the child due to financial or physical limitations.
3. What forms of sponsorship are allowed?
The Act recognizes three formats:
- Individual-to-individual
- Group sponsorship
- Community-based sponsorship
4. What kind of support is included?
Sponsorship may cover essential needs such as:
- Nutrition
- Education
- Medical expenses
- Other support aimed at improving the child’s quality of life
5. Is there a time limit for sponsorship?
Yes, but the exact duration is to be prescribed by rules framed by the State Government.
Conclusion
Section 45 plays a crucial role in supporting children who are at risk due to the loss or incapacity of parental care. Through structured sponsorship programs, the State can ensure that such children receive the essentials they need to live with dignity. It encourages community involvement while ensuring that no child is left behind due to economic or social challenges.
For more legal updates and detailed explanations, visit ApniLaw.
