Keralam to launch Family Sustainability Mapping to identify children in high-risk environments

The Keralam government has taken the decision regarding the mapping following the death of a two-year-old child in Alappuzha recently due to suspected malnutrition. (file image)

The Keralam government will take steps to implement ‘Family Sustainability Mapping’ across the State to identify, at an early stage, children living in high-risk environments, Minister for Women and Child Development Bindhu Krishna has said.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the Ujjwala Balyam Awards on Wednesday (November 11, 2026), she said a decision regarding the mapping was reached during a meeting convened following the death of a two-year-old child in Alappuzha recently due to suspected malnutrition.

The circumstances of families and children will be assessed with the cooperation of schools, Anganwadis, local self-government institutions, District Child Protection Units, healthcare workers and the police. Children facing risks such as malnutrition, neglect, domestic abuse, child labour, begging, school dropouts, substance abuse-related issues or various forms of exploitation will be identified and necessary protection and rehabilitation will be ensured.

“Child protection efforts should not be limited to intervening only after abuse or exploitation has already occurred. The government’s objective is to proactively identify high risk situations and ensure timely protection for children. Coordinated action among various departments and institutions will be strengthened to prevent issues such as sexual abuse, physical and mental abuse, neglect, child labour, child begging, human trafficking and online exploitation,” she said.

Activities will be jointly coordinated by departments including the Department of Women and Child Development, the Health Department, the Police, and the Local Self Government Department. This will enable the strengthening of existing child protection systems as well as the proactive identification of risks and the implementation of preventive measures. The Minister stated that the active participation of society is essential to ensure a safe childhood and equal opportunities for every child and to create an environment in which they can grow up with self confidence.

Ms .Krishna said that a total of 52 children from 14 districts have been chosen for the Ujjwala Balyam Awards for showcasing exemplary talent in arts, sports, literature, science, social work, environmental protection, information technology, agriculture, waste management, humanitarian activities, crafts, sculpture and acts involving extraordinary courage.

The winners were selected by a committee chaired by the District Collector in each district. The award consists of a cash prize of ₹25,000, a citation and a plaque. The awards will be presented at the State-level Children’s Day celebration to be held in Thiruvananthapuram on November 14.

The award recipients are children who have demonstrated excellence in various fields, including social work, environmental protection, information technology, agriculture, waste management, humanitarian activities, crafts, sculpture, and acts involving extraordinary courage.