The role of the government and NGO'S
During the past decades, the Indian government has become more aware of the special circumstances of street children. A new policy has been introduced. The result of this has been that both the government and NGO’s have established a number of hostels to which the police can refer street children. However, there still are not nearly enough hostels to significantly reduce number of street children.
In addition, a number of government and volunteer organizations were established to provide these children with a healthier living environment. Yet only 35.000 of the estimated 100.000 street children receive the most basic provisions. A total of around 40 NGO’s in Calcutta have activities aimed at street children. The majority are fairly small and only a few provide permanent homes. The causes are the high prices of property in Calcutta and problems involved in acquiring stable long-term finance.
In addition, a number of government and volunteer organizations were established to provide these children with a healthier living environment. Yet only 35.000 of the estimated 100.000 street children receive the most basic provisions. A total of around 40 NGO’s in Calcutta have activities aimed at street children. The majority are fairly small and only a few provide permanent homes. The causes are the high prices of property in Calcutta and problems involved in acquiring stable long-term finance.
Most of the western donor organisations only (partially) finance specific projects for a period of a maximum of four years, and demand a large amount of difficult and complex paperwork. (An experienced British pioneer, an ex-bank manager, who provides a home and education to 300 children, reports spending 70% of his time on completing paperwork).
Another problem is attracting and keeping qualified and well-trained staff members. The salaries paid by NGO’s are significantly lower than those offered by the commercial sector.