The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO Courts, for a further period of five years, from 01.04.2026 to 31.03.2031. The scheme aims to improve the rate of disposal of pending rape and POCSO Act cases.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, has approved the continuation and expansion of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO Courts, for a further period of five years i.e. from 01.04.2026 to 31.03.2031. The scheme has a total financial outlay of Rs.3,788.04 crore (Central Share of Rs.2,353.15 crore and State/UT Share of Rs.1,434.89 crore). The Central Share will be funded from the Nirbhaya Fund.
The major features of the approved Scheme are as follows: The Scheme shall be operationalized in 850 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO Courts, across various participating States/Union Territories. This expansion shall extend to additional districts based on case pendency data.
Provision of dedicated Judicial Officer, Special Public Prosecutor and 6 support staff to facilitate expeditious disposal of pending cases relating to rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Financial assistance will be provided to participating States/UTs for meeting the operational expenditure of FTSCs in accordance with the CSS funding pattern.
The continuation of the Scheme is expected to have the following major impacts: Providing Speedy Justice: Ensuring faster trials and timely justice for victims of sexual offences. Reducing Pending Cases: Reducing the number of pending cases of Rape and POCSO Act cases. Child-Friendly and Victim-Centric Environment: The Scheme encourages establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) and child-friendly court spaces to facilitate victim testimonies without causing further distress.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
