Bengaluru, July 17 (Reporter) From past seven years, the 'Operation Nanhe Farishtey' piloted by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has successfully rescued 84,119 children who were at risk on stations and trains, ensuring their safety and well-being. A press statement issued by Indian Railways on Wednesday said, This journey began with a significant effort in 2018 when the RPF rescued a total of 17,112 children. This first year revealed the urgent need for such an initiative, as 13,187 were identified as runaways, 2,105 as missing, 1,091 as left behind, 400 as destitute, 87 as kidnapped, 78 as mentally challenged, and 131 as street children. In 2019, the RPF continued its impactful work by rescuing 15,932 children. This included 12,708 runaways, 1,454 missing, 1,036 left behind, 350 destitute, 56 kidnapped, 123 mentally challenged, and 171 street children. The year 2020 presented unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted normal operations. Despite these difficulties, the RPF managed to rescue 5,011 children, demonstrating their resilience in continuing their mission amid adversity. A resurgence in 2021 saw the RPF rescue 11,907 children, with notable figures including 9,601 runaways, 961 missing, 648 left behind, 370 destitute, 78 kidnapped, 82 mentally challenged, and 123 street children. The year 2022 set a record with the highest number of rescues, totaling 17,756 children. This included 14,603 runaways, 1,156 missing, 1,035 left behind, 384 destitute, 161 kidnapped, 86 mentally challenged, and 212 street children. The achievements of this year were bolstered by increased awareness and more coordinated operations across the railway zones. In 2023, the RPF continued its crucial work by rescuing 11,794 children, comprising 8,916 runaways, 986 missing, 1,055 left behind, 236 destitute, 156 kidnapped, 112 mentally challenged, and 237 street children. The first five months of 2024 have already seen the rescue of 4,607 children, with 3,430 identified as runaways. This early data reflects the RPF’s continued commitment to 'Nanhe Faristey' and highlights ongoing challenges as well as persistent efforts to address them. Beyond the direct rescues, the RPF has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the plight of runaway and missing children. The Track Child Portal provides comprehensive details, while child helpdesks at over 135 railway stations assist in the care and recovery of these children. Once rescued, children are handed over to the District Child Welfare Committee, which facilitates their reunification with their families. As 'Operation Nanhe Faristey' evolves, it adapts to new challenges and continues striving to create a safer environment for children across India’s extensive railway network...////...