Lack of identity proof no more a job barrier for orphans

Identity proof will no longer be a hurdle for children brought up in child institutions.

Identity proof will no longer be a hurdle for children brought up in child institutions.

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The Delhi government issued a circular that the certificate issued by the institution where the child lived till attaining 18 years of age will serve as an identity proof for a period of one year after leaving the institution.

Lack of identity proof was a big problem for such teenagers while seeking job or pursuing higher education.

On an average, 600 children leave such institutions every year. There are 28 government-run institutions and over 40

registered child institutions in the city.

"Many children (teens) had even moved the court for a solution," said a senior Delhi government official.
"Till the time they were part of the institution, it served as their permanent address. However, the moment they turn 18, they are supposed to leave as per the norms. We have received several complaints that these children face lot of difficulties when they try to look for jobs or try to pursue higher education for want of an identity proof," the official said.

"Acting on several such complaints, we have decided that the institution-leaving certificate will serve as an identity proof for a period of one year. During this period, they can look up for jobs and get other other identity documents such as driving licence, voter identity card among others," he added.

Thus far, the want of any identification proof forced these children to resort to working in the informal sector despite having finished their schooling.

"Children who live in these institutions are generally those who don't have parents or are in conflict with law. We take care of them till they are minor. We want to ensure that they can support themselves even after they leave the institution. By allowing the provision of their leaving certificate serving as an identity proof, we will be helping them in getting a job so that they could ensure a better future for themselves," added the
official.

The circular issued by the Delhi government will be applicable for all government-run institutions and private registered ones.