Census of left-behind kids a needed move

A national census is to be conducted to find out the exact number of left-behind children in rural areas. The Ministry of Civil Affairs revealed over the weekend that a joint mechanism of 27 State departments will carry out the census, the results of which will help make possible targeted help for such children.

At present, there is little support for children left behind in the care of their grandparents or other relatives or else left to fend for themselves while their parents work in cities. Reports about juvenile delinquency or the suicides committed by such children have only added to the bleak picture.

The State Council, China's Cabinet, has called for more care and attention for such children and a detailed account of their situation so help can be provided for them.