Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 10 October 2024
In a recent effort to raise awareness about the essential services offered to children in distress, Child Helpline-1098 organized an informative session at the Anganwadi Centre in Hashmatabad. The program, aimed at educating mothers and children, focused on the assistance provided by Child Helpline-1098 and the Women and Child Development (WCD) Control Room, located at VIP Road, Sri Vijaya Puram.
Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director of Social Welfare, spoke at the event, stressing the importance of timely intervention and comprehensive support for children in need. He highlighted the pivotal role society must play in ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children. Child Helpline-1098 is a crucial step toward safeguarding every child, said Dr. Shakya.
The program featured a detailed presentation by Ms. Anandini, a call operator at Child Helpline-1098. She explained the functions of the WCD Control Room and gave an overview of the helpline’s operations. According to her, the helpline serves as a critical tool in protecting vulnerable children and addressing their needs swiftly. Ms. Anandini emphasized the collaborative nature of the service, urging the community to remain alert and report any signs of child abuse or neglect. The session ended with an interactive Q&A, where attendees, especially mothers, had the chance to clarify their concerns and learn how to effectively use the helpline.
On September 30, 2024, a similar awareness program was held at the Anganwadi Centre in Prothrapur. The session was led by Ms. Beena Das, Helpline Administrator, who reiterated the vital services offered by Child Helpline-1098. She urged the attendees to make full use of the service, particularly in cases of emergency or when they encounter children in distress.
The event also included a discussion led by Ms. G. Mani Kumari, another call operator, who outlined the inner workings of the WCD Control Room and how it collaborates with Child Helpline-1098 to ensure the safety and well-being of children across the region.
These awareness initiatives are part of a broader campaign to ensure that every child in need has access to the resources and support they require, and that the public is well-informed on how to utilize such services.