Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 04 September 2024
In a significant step towards empowering children with knowledge of their legal rights and responsibilities, the State Child Protection Society, under the Directorate of Social Welfare, organized an awareness program at Seva Niketan, Dairy Farm. The initiative, part of a broader campaign, focused on educating children about their rights, duties and the importance of personal hygiene.
The program was led by Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director of Social Welfare, who emphasized the critical role of legal education and hygiene in shaping a brighter future for the children. “Our goal is to equip these young minds with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and make informed decisions,” said Dr. Shakya.
A key highlight of the event was a session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Child Rights, conducted by Program Manager Ms. Rehaneth Begum. Through interactive activities, she engaged the children, explaining essential aspects of the POCSO Act, which is designed to safeguard children under the age of 18 from sexual abuse and exploitation.
The session provided practical guidance on identifying unsafe touch, the importance of saying ‘no,’ confiding in a trusted adult, and understanding that keeping secrets, particularly those related to abuse, is not okay. The children were encouraged to ask questions, and the interactive format ensured that the critical messages were effectively communicated.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, where the children had the opportunity to clarify doubts and deepen their understanding of their rights and safety measures. Mr. Biswajeet, Office Superintendent of Seva Niketan, expressed his gratitude to the State Child Protection Society, highlighting the importance of such educational initiatives in protecting and empowering the children.
The awareness program is part of the ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Social Welfare to create a safe and informed environment for children in care institutions across the region.