Lucknow, Oct 5 (Reporter) The Uttar Pradesh government has taken a significant step towards improving the lives of vulnerable and deprived children in the state with the launch of its Sponsorship Scheme. Designed to provide financial support to destitute, differently abled, and underprivileged children, the scheme is becoming a crucial milestone in their welfare. As part of the campaign, the Department of Women and Child Development will work to identify differently abled children by December this year, ensuring that those who meet the eligibility criteria receive much-needed financial assistance. Under this initiative, each eligible child is provided Rs 4,000 in monthly financial aid. The scheme aims to reach 20,000 vulnerable children during the financial year 2024-25, as part of the government's inclusive development agenda. The UP government has disbursed Rs 1,423.20 lakh to 11,860 children in the fiscal year 2024–25 under the Sponsorship Scheme, a key initiative under the Mission Vatsalya programme of the central government. With this, the government aims to assist children who are living with their extended families in difficult circumstances. Following CM Yogi's instructions, a special campaign is underway to identify disabled children across Uttar Pradesh. Running until December, this campaign aims to find children in need at the district level and ensure they benefit from various government schemes. Those eligible for the sponsorship scheme will be included quickly to receive financial assistance. The sponsorship scheme helps meet the essential needs of these children, such as care and education, by providing Rs 4,000 per month for each child. The scheme's eligibility criteria are designed to support the most vulnerable children. In rural areas, the annual income limit for parents is set at Rs 72,000, while in urban areas, it is Rs 96,000. For children who have lost both parents or legal guardians, there is no income limit. Parents or guardians need to submit documents such as an Aadhar card, income certificate, age certificate, death certificates (if applicable), and proof of the child's enrollment in school to the District Child Protection Unit or District Probation Officer to access these benefits. This scheme, jointly funded by the Central Government (60%) and the State Government (40%), was approved by the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet on July 17, 2022. In the financial year 2023-24, Rs 910.07 lakh was distributed to 7,018 children under this scheme. So far, in 2024-25, Rs 1,423.20 lakh has been provided to 11,860 children, to reach 20,000 children by the end of the year. This initiative supports children facing various challenges, including those with single or ill parents, orphans, homeless, or children rescued from trafficking, child labor, or natural disasters. The scheme also helps children with imprisoned parents, those affected by HIV/AIDS, or children whose parents cannot care for them due to physical, mental, or financial difficulties. It also aids street children and victims of abuse, offering a path toward a better future...////...