India is a country with multifaceted cultures and varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Technological innovations and developments are rapidly taking place. Globalization and liberalization policies are benefiting those persons in society who are socioeconomically better off. In the wake of the current hegemonic circumstances, it is generally acknowledged that social development needs to be directed at the marginalized segments of the population, especially children as a highly vulnerable category. Because of armed conflicts and natural and man-made disasters, it is appropriate that this country report be presented to make visible the magnitude of the problems of marginalized children facing enforced institutionalization because of environmental circumstances beyond their control. This report attempts to give a brief overview of residential care for children in India and seeks to highlight efforts made by the government and non-government organizations towards alternative care options for Indian children.
