The Ministry of Woman and Child Development on Monday informed the Delhi high court it is taking all steps to safeguard the best interest of children affected by the coronavirus pandemic, adding it has written to states and Union territories (UTs) seeking immediate rehabilitation of the orphaned children. In his PIL, Gupta sought directions to authorities to provide the interim custody of orphaned children to their nearest relatives, or child care homes, while protecting their identity. letter dated 30.04.2021 by secretary, MWCD was sent to chief secretaries with request to district magistrates in all the districts to ensure immediate action of rehabilitation of children orphaned due to Covid-19. It also said states and UTs were asked to issue public notices in local languages over issues requiring lawful course of action in case of orphaned children. In May, prime minister Narendra Modi announced children, who lost both parents due to Covid-19, will be supported under the "PM Cares for Children" scheme.

Source: Hindustan Times July 19, 2021 12:00 UTC