Jammu, Nov 13: In a ground breaking initiative, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in the country to establish a Cradle Baby Reception Centre (CBRC) at the Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar Jammu.
The CBRC, aptly named ‘Palna Greh,’ has been inaugurated at Gandhi Nagar Hospital, Jammu, under the ‘Mission Vatsalya’ by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India (GoI). This initiative, aimed at caring for abandoned children until they find adoptive homes, reinforces the government’s commitment to child welfare.
Speaking about the project, Medical Superintendent (MS) of Gandhi Nagar Hospital, Dr. Yograj Parveen, emphasized the confidentiality maintained throughout the process, from bringing the child to the CBRC to their eventual adoption. The Cradle Baby Reception Centre has established communication with the Child Adoption Agency of J&K, and contact details are prominently displayed at the facility.
To ensure the privacy and security of those involved, the entire area of the CBRC is excluded from CCTV coverage, ensuring the confidentiality of both those bringing a child to the center and those seeking to adopt.
Originally slated for SMGS Hospital, Jammu’s premier maternity and pediatric facility, the CBRC location was changed after careful consideration of factors and available facilities. The decision to establish it at Government Gandhi Nagar Hospital was made by the District Child Protection Officer following a thorough survey.
The primary objective of this pioneering center is to combat infanticide and safeguard the lives of abandoned children who might otherwise be left in vulnerable situations. Dr. Yograj Parveen stated, “Such children will now be brought here at Cradle Baby Reception Centre, after which we will ensure their adoption with full confidentiality.”
