STRENGTHENING CHILD WELFARE POLICIES FOR INDIAN ORPHANED AND ABANDONED CHILDREN: BRIDGING GAPS THROUGH COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

India is home to an estimated 31 million orphaned and abandoned children, many of whom remain vulnerable due to gaps in institutional care, adoption processes, foster care systems, and mental health services. Despite legislative frameworks such as the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), 2009, systemic challenges related to implementation, inadequate funding, and lack of monitoring mechanisms hinder the effectiveness of child welfare programs. This paper critically examines India’s existing child welfare policies, compares them with successful international models, and proposes evidence-based policy interventions to bridge these gaps. Key recommendations include shifting from institutional care to family-based alternatives such as foster care and kinship placements, streamlining adoption processes, and introducing post-adoption support services. Additionally, expanding mental health interventions, improving social worker training, and leveraging technology for better monitoring are essential steps toward enhancing child welfare outcomes. Drawing insights from global best practices in the United States, Norway, and Finland, this study emphasizes the importance of decentralized governance, financial incentives for foster families, and AI-driven predictive analytics for identifying at-risk children. Furthermore, the paper advocates for greater child participation in policymaking, legal protections against discrimination in education and employment, and corporate partnerships to provide scholarships and mentorship for orphaned youth. By integrating these measures, India can create a more inclusive, child-centered welfare system that ensures protection, stability, and long-term well-being for orphaned and abandoned children. Ultimately, this study underscores the urgent need for a multi-pronged reform approach that combines policy enhancements, technological innovation, and community-driven solutions to safeguard the rights and futures of India’s most vulnerable children. KEYWORDS: Child Welfare, Institutional Care, Foster Care, Adoption, Mental Health, Policy Reform, India, Orphans.