Satyarthi praises Centre's intent to work for underprivileged

Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi on Wednesday praised the union budget for the "government's intent" to "work for the left behind society".

"I welcome the 8 percent increase in the amount allocated towards the empowerment and protection of children. The decision to raise the fund for women and child development from Rs 1.56 lakh crore to Rs 1.84 lakh crore is reassuring," Satyarthi said in a statement.

He, however, remained expressed disappointment over the nominal increment sanctioned for National Child Labour Project.

Satyarthi emphasised the need for more investment in children's environment and overall development.

"Children comprise 39 percent of our population, yet are allotted only 3.32 percent of the budget. A more proportionate investment will create opportunities for the whole country to thrive," he said.

The child rights crusader dropped a word of advice too: "Investing in children is not only a moral and social imperative but also an economic investment of guaranteed return."