New database will help improve orphan care

BEIJING - A national database to collect and collate information on orphans under the age of 18 has been set up.

The database, the first of its kind, will help facilitate the distribution of monthly government subsidies and monitor welfare services caring for this vulnerable group.

It will record data on the country's estimated 712,000 orphans, including basic identification details, photos and their guardians' information, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs.