Department has taken the initiative to set up the Child Helpline Control Room at the Headquarters to operationalize 1098, a national toll-free number dedicated for children in difficult situations. The primary aim of Child Helpline Service is to support and assist any child who has fallen out of the safety net to provide emergency and immediate response and connect the child to existing long term services. Child Helpline number 1098 is integrated with the Emergency Response Support System 112 (ERSS-112) helpline. Childline acts as a crucial link between children in distress conditions and services available for their rehabilitation, restoration or social re- integration. Support can range from providing medical, shelter, legal aid, emotional support or guidance. For children with different needs, who call in anytime, anywhere, and for anything, it acts as a one-point contact which facilitates instant access to support, advice and active intervention.
WCD has already set up Control Room (WCD-CR) at the Headquarters in Panchkula to operationalize 1098, a national toll-free number dedicated for children in difficult situations. Calls have been regularly received, 49675 calls have been answered from 01.09.2023 to 11.11.2024.