BEIJING - China launched a database to compile nationwide information about orphans on Saturday,  as the country aims to ensure welfare services, especially the timely payment of basic living expenses for orphans.

According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the database, which would contain information such as photos and identification details, could help compile precise statistics on orphans across the country.

The database also makes monitoring the distribution of living allowances paid to orphans more convenient, thereby maintaining fairness and accuracy in welfare coverage.

The country's child welfare services would try to cover all children in need, said Dou Yupei, the Vice-Minister of Civil Affairs.