Role of Government and NGOs in Reclaiming Play Spaces Across India

In many parts of India, children have lost the freedom to play outside. Open lands are turning into buildings, parking lots, and garbage dumps. But play is very important for children’s health and happiness. Thankfully, the government and NGOs (non-governmental organizations) are starting to take action. Together, they can help bring back safe, clean, and fun spaces for children to play.

Why Play Spaces Are Disappearing

• Cities are growing fast, and open spaces are being used for construction.
• Many existing parks are poorly maintained or unsafe.
• Villages lack proper play areas, especially in schools.
• Children end up playing in dangerous or unhealthy places like streets or near garbage dumps.

This is a serious problem. Without safe places to play, children miss out on physical activity, creativity, and social skills.

How the Government Can Help

1. Protect Open Spaces
Governments should stop illegal land use and protect parks and public areas for children.

2. Build More Playgrounds
New town planning must include green play zones in every neighborhood—just like water, roads, and schools.

3. Maintain Existing Parks
Cleaning, fixing broken equipment, and adding lights or fences makes parks safer and more usable.

4. Create Inclusive Spaces
Playgrounds should be designed for all children, including those with disabilities.

5. Support Local Initiatives
Local government bodies (panchayats, municipal corporations) can support schools and communities that want to build their own play areas.

What NGOs Are Doing

Many NGOs in India are working hard to bring back play to children’s lives—especially in poor or rural areas.

Building Low-Cost Playgrounds
NGOs like Anthill Creations build fun, colorful playgrounds using recycled materials like tires, ropes, and wood.

Partnering with Schools
NGOs help schools design play-based learning areas so kids learn while they play.

Community Involvement
They involve local people in building and taking care of play spaces—so the whole community benefits.

Raising Awareness
NGOs also spread awareness about the importance of play in child development.

Working Together for Children

The government has the power and resources. NGOs have the passion and creative ideas. Together, they can:

• Identify unused or abandoned land
• Clean and prepare it safely
• Design child-friendly play spaces
• Educate families about the value of play
• Most importantly, they can listen to children—and create spaces that truly meet their needs.

Let’s Make Play a Priority

Every child in India deserves a safe place to play. It’s not a luxury—it’s a basic need. With strong support from the government and NGOs, we can bring back joy, movement, and imagination to millions of children.

Let’s reclaim our spaces—for play, for health, and for the future.