Visakhapatnam: Minister for Women, Child Welfare, and Tribal Welfare, Gummadi Sandhya Rani, has highlighted the importance of following legal adoption procedures and warned of strict action against illegal adoptions and child labor. Addressing a foster adoption awareness program organized by the State Adoption Resources Agency and Women and Child Welfare Department, the minister highlighted ongoing efforts to prevent child trafficking and promote legal adoption practices.
Gummadi Sandhya Rani revealed that 108 children are currently housed in 27 children’s homes across the state, while 473 children have been adopted domestically and 114 internationally. She urged the public to report missing children via the 1098 child helpline or local child welfare committees, reiterating the government’s commitment to curbing child trafficking and illegal labor practices.
District Collector MN Harendhira Prasad called for greater awareness of foster adoption, particularly in rural areas, and highlighted the role of Anganwadi workers in disseminating information. He noted that 159 children have been legally adopted within the district so far.
Key officials, including Director of Women and Child Welfare M Venu Gopal Reddy, Joint Director K Chinmayee Devi, and PWC Chairperson Radha, were present at the event, which also included detailed briefings on adoption procedures and the importance of safeguarding children’s rights.
