Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 was enacted by the Government with the objective of safeguarding children from sexual abuse and sexual offences

• Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is India's dedicated, gender-neutral statute criminalising sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography involving any person below 18 years.
• Administered by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD); trials run in designated Special Courts / Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs).
• High-yield for Prelims (Act-specific facts) and Mains GS-I/GS-II (children, vulnerable sections, governance).