They said the number of street children in the country continues to rise, but the government has no comprehensive policy for their welfare.

Although there is no official figure for the total number of such children, it is generally assumed that the number is approaching 20 lakh, they said.

Plan Bangladesh and Nari Maitree in corporation with Media Aid Bangladesh organised the discussion on 'Duties of people in society to ensure the children's participation' and a cultural programme and prize giving ceremony at Sabujbag Buddha temple in the city. About 100 hundred street children attended the programme.

The speakers said the street children could contribute to the national development if they get opportunities, but the measures taken for their welfare are totally inadequate.

They also suggested providing vocational training for the street children and setting up a fund for them.

Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) Executive Officer Nazmul Hai said combined efforts of the government and NGOs are needed to rehabilitate the distressed children.

In urban areas, many street children work as domestic help, porters and street vendors, and are vulnerable to sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation, said Shaheen Aktar Dali, executive director of Nari Maitree.

Plan Bangladesh Dhaka South Programme Manager FM Shamsul Alam, Programme Co-ordinator Faruque Ahmed and DCC Ward Commissioner Mosharaf Hossain Manju also spoke.

Later, the children presented a cultural show and a drama.