Missing children in India

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and supportive environment. When a child goes missing, the impact can be deeply distressing for the child, their family and the wider community.

Children may go missing for different reasons. Some may leave home because of conflict or difficult circumstances. Others may become separated from their families or be abducted. In some cases, children may face risks of trafficking, exploitation or abuse after going missing.

What does it mean when a child goes missing?

A child is considered missing when their whereabouts are unknown and their family or caregivers are unable to locate them. Not every missing-child case has the same circumstances. Each case needs a timely, child-sensitive response that focuses on the child’s safety and well-being.

How many children go missing in India?

According to an analysis of National Crime Records Bureau data by CRY, 1,47,175 children were reported missing in India in 2024. This was a 6.2% increase from 1,38,609 children in 2023. Girls accounted for 75.6% of the missing children reported in 2024, while children aged 16–18 accounted for 51.3% of cases. These numbers highlight the importance of timely reporting, effective tracing systems and stronger child protection mechanisms.

Why do children go missing?

There is no single reason why children go missing. Some children may leave home because of conflict, stress or difficult family or personal circumstances. When children do not feel heard or supported, they may find it difficult to ask for help.

A child’s home environment plays an important role in their sense of safety and belonging. Frequent conflict, violence or a lack of emotional support can make children vulnerable.

Some missing-child cases may involve abduction or trafficking. Children may be moved from one place to another and exposed to exploitation. However, not every missing child is a victim of trafficking. Children who experience abuse, neglect or exploitation may face greater risks to their safety and well-being.

What risks do missing children face?

Missing children may become vulnerable to trafficking and other forms of exploitation. This can include forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. Some children who go missing may become involved in exploitative work. This can affect their education, health and access to protection and support.

What should you do if a child goes missing?

If a child goes missing, report the case to the police immediately. Do not wait before reporting. Share important information such as the child’s recent photograph, name, age, appearance, clothing, last known location and the circumstances in which they were last seen.

Use trusted channels when sharing information about a missing child. Avoid spreading unverified information, as it can make the situation more difficult for the family and authorities.

How can communities help find missing children?

Finding missing children requires coordination between families, communities, schools, police and child protection authorities. In parts of North-West Delhi, CRY and Saksham have worked with children, families, schools, community groups and local authorities to strengthen systems for identifying concerns and tracing missing children. Between January 2025 and April 2026, this system successfully traced 97 out of 102 missing children and brought them back safely to their families.

Children are also active participants in this approach. Through children’s groups, they can notice prolonged school absence, raise concerns and alert trusted adults when something seems wrong.