Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 27 September 2023
In a dedicated effort to educate the public and youth about the critical provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offence (POCSO) Act 2012, an enlightening awareness program was held at Yatri Niwas in Haddo, Ward No. 1. The initiative, led by ICDS Urban Project, in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit, PRIs, Health Department, Education Department, and the Police Department, aimed to sensitise the community on child protection issues.
The program encompassed a comprehensive discussion on various facets of child protection, including child abuse, ensuring the safety of girl children, preventive measures, and the vital roles parents and caregivers play in nurturing children. Representatives from government departments shed light on the services provided by their respective agencies, rehabilitation efforts, legal matters, and more.
Key figures in child welfare and protection graced the event, including Ms. Zarina Bibi, CDPO (Urban Project); the Medical Officer of Urban Health Centre (UHC) in Haddo; Ms. Meghna Pal Govind, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) of South Andaman; Ms. Suman Barla, NIC, DCPU South Andaman; and Insp. Rasheeda, SHO, Chatham Police Station. Local representation was further bolstered by Mr. B. Someshwar Rao, Ward Councillor, social workers, and ANMs, among others.