Block-Level Workshop Marks Start of Child Marriage-Free India Campaign

Udaipur,A workshop meeting of the Block-Level Child Protection Committee was organized on Friday at the Badgaon Panchayat Samiti Hall under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme. The objective was to ensure community and panchayat participation in creating a safe, child-friendly environment, and to prepare and implement action plans for child rights issues. The workshop focused on awareness and discussions on various aspects of child protection and rights.

Rajeev Meghwal, Member of the Rajasthan State Child Protection Commission, emphasized the importance of collective efforts by all departments in preventing child marriages. He stated that the government has implemented various provisions for child protection and remains committed to ensuring the well-being of children.

Deliberation on Children's Issues with Sensitivity

Arushi Jain, Assistant Director of the Child Rights Department, stressed the importance of discussing children’s issues with sensitivity. She highlighted the fundamental rights of children, including the right to life, education, development, and protection. Experts emphasized the need for basic amenities, protection from exploitation, effective education, and opportunities for growth while calling for stronger measures to eliminate child labor.

Sarpanches from various gram panchayats shared updates on child protection and rights activities within their communities.

Parental Vigilance Over Children’s Activities

Yashoda Paniya, Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the crucial role of gram panchayat representatives in preventing crimes against children. She urged gram sabhas to discuss issues related to child rights and stressed the need for collective efforts to reintegrate marginalized children into mainstream society.

Paniya highlighted the importance of parental responsibility in monitoring their children’s activities, especially considering the risks posed by excessive use of social media and other communication platforms, which expose children to potential cybercrimes.

Child Helpline Awareness

Navneet Audichya, District Coordinator for the Child Helpline, provided insights into the work of the 1098 helpline and urged attendees to report child-related issues for prompt action.

Pledge for a Child Marriage-Free India

Badgaon Pradhan Pratibha Nagda and Development Officer Jitendra Singh Rajawat stressed the need for regular child protection meetings at the panchayat level. During the event, participants took a pledge led by Rajawat to work towards a child marriage-free India and intensify efforts to prevent child marriages.

Participation and Key Takeaways

The workshop was attended by Badgaon Pradhan Pratibha Nagda, Protection Officer Rajkumar Jeengar, Development Officer Jitendra Singh Rajawat, committee members, Child Helpline representatives, and officials from the Education and Social Justice Departments, along with sarpanches and public representatives from various panchayats.

This workshop marked a significant step towards safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring a society free from the social evil of child marriages.