In an Indian government news update, The scheme ‘Ujjawala’ was launched on 4th December, 2007 by the Ministry of Women & Child Development. The scheme has specific components for Prevention of trafficking and for Rescue, Rehabilitation, Re-integration and Repatriation of victims of trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation. As on date, 286 Ujjawala projects have been sanctioned in the country including 162 Protective and Rehabilitation homes. The revised Ujjawala scheme with enhanced budgetary norms is under implementation with effect from 01.04.2016. The details of the total funds allocated during the last three years, year-wise under Ujjawala scheme and the number of beneficiary in the country is as below:
| Year | 2013-14 | 2014-15 | 2015-16 | 2016-17
(As on date) |
| Fund Allocated (Rs. In Lakhs) | 1371.63 | 792.56 | 2067.07 | 442.48 |
| Total Beneficiaries | 5765 | 6275 | 6175 | 6175 |
In the context of continuing the scheme during 12th Plan, Delhi University was assigned to evaluate the scheme which submitted its report in April, 2014. As per the Report, the scheme has been very well conceptualized. The Report also recommended to continue with the Scheme.
The measures taken by the Government under the Ujjawala scheme to create awareness about trafficking of women and children include formation and functioning of Community Vigilance Groups, Social Mobilization & involvement of local communities, generate public discourse through Workshops/Seminars, Awareness through Mass Media And Development and Printing of Awareness Generation material such as Pamphlets, Leaflets and Posters.
