‘Barriers and Opportunities: For Scaling Non-Government Provision of Childcare Services for Low-Income Urban Families’ examines the growing gap between the childcare needs of low-income families and the availability of affordable, quality childcare services in urban India. Developed by UNDP India in partnership with Genesis Analytics, the study draws on surveys of over 200 parents and non-government childcare providers across seven cities.

The report identifies three key barriers limiting access to childcare: trust, affordability and service delivery. While many parents recognize the benefits of childcare for child development and women's employment, concerns around quality and safety, combined with significant affordability gaps, continue to limit uptake. The findings highlight the need for coordinated action by government, employers, philanthropy and civil society to strengthen urban care systems, expand access to quality childcare, and support greater economic participation by women.