Odisha govt to launch statewide survey of orphans and single-parent children

Bhubaneswar, June 3: The Odisha government is set to launch a comprehensive survey to identify orphans and children living with a single parent across the state, with the goal of safeguarding their rights and ensuring access to essential services.

According to official sources, the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD) has issued instructions to all district collectors to facilitate the process. Detailed guidelines and standard data collection formats have been shared for uniform implementation.

The survey will be carried out by Anganwadi workers under the close supervision of officials including District Social Welfare Officers (DSWOs), ICDS Supervisors, Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and District Child Protection Officers (DCPOs).

To ensure accuracy and preparedness, a phased training schedule has been outlined. Master trainers at the state level will be trained by the Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS) by June 26, followed by district-level training by July 5, and sector-level training of surveyors by July 10.

Field data collection will take place from July 11 to July 21. Subsequent verification and reporting will be completed by September 4, 2025. The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to children who require special care and protection, especially those lacking adequate family support.