/700The Government of India have had for consideration the question of adopting a National Charter for Children to reiterate its commitment to the cause of the children in order to see that no child remains hungry, illiterate or sick. After the consideration, it has been decided to adopt the National Charter for Children as enunciated below:National Charter for Children, 2003.-Whereas the Constitution of India enshrines both in Parts III and IV the cause and the best interest of children, insofar that:The State can make special provisions for children, (Art. 15(3))The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of six to fourteen years, (Art. 21-A)No child below the age of fourteen years shall be employed to work in a factory, mine or any other hazardous employment, (Art. 24)The tender age of children is not abused and that citizens are not forced by economic necessity to enter avocations unsuited to their age or strength (Art. 39(e)), and thatChildren are given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity and that youth are protected against exploitation and against moral and material abandonment, (Art. 390)The State shall endeavour to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years, (Art. 45)Whereas it is a fundamental duty of a parent or guardian to provide opportunities for education to his child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years, (Art. 51-A)Whereas through the National Policy for Children, 1974, we are committed to providing for adequate services to children, both before and after birth and throughout the period of growth, to ensure their full physical, mental and social development,Whereas we affirm that the best interest of children must be protected through combined action of the State, society, communities and families in their obligations in fulfilling children's basic needs,Whereas we also affirm that while State, society, community and family have obligations towards children, these must be viewed in the context of intrinsic and attendant duties of children and inculcating in children a sound sense of values directed towards preserving and strengthening the Family, Society and the Nation.And whereas we believe that by respecting the child, society is respecting itself,Now, therefore, in accordance with our pledge in the National Agenda of Governance, the following National Charter for Children, 2003 is announced.Underlying this Charter is our intent to secure for every child its inherent right to be a child and enjoy a healthy and happy childhood, to address the root causes that negate the healthy growth and development of children, and to awaken the conscience of the community in the wider societal context to protect children from all firms of abuse, while strengthening the family, society and the Nation.
