Childhood is an important phase in life. Unfortunately, majority of children do not taste a healthy and happy childhood. Children are vulnerable to exploitation both on the streets and within the home, at the hands of even their own families. Child rights are not respected and children have no means to protect themselves. Their rights, health and existence are in danger. They are the worst affected during natural and human made disasters and calamities. Education still eludes millions.

Street and working children are most vulnerable for exploitation. Their reality smacks of poverty, sickness and exploitation. They are forced to live on the streets with other street kids. Some are on the move constantly. They land in the streets due to family problems, drunken and irresponsible parents, and ill treatment by step parent/s, abuse and dire poverty.

Once on the streets, they become most vulnerable for abuse and sexual exploitation too. These children take up rag packing and some take up menial jobs in bars, way side eateries or as coolies (carrying loads). They get addicted to intoxicant tobacco, smoking, gambling and drinking. They waste money on movies. Some engage in same sex or hetero-sexual activities. On the whole, they lead a life of desperation.

Life on the street is not easy. They do not have a permanent location and are often chased out when spotted. Rainy days become horror days. The police arrest them, harass them and beat them. They are deemed as ‘petty criminals’.