ITANAGAR, Jul 31: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Member Priyank Kanoongo on Friday emphasised the need for stronger child protection mechanisms, effective implementation of welfare schemes and the promotion of mother tongue-based education during an interaction with Heads of Offices of Tawang district.
The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of the Tawang Deputy Commissioner's Office, formed part of Kanoongo's official visit to the district.
Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo welcomed the NHRC member and presented a detailed overview of Tawang district, covering its geography, demography, administrative structure and developmental initiatives. Officials from various departments also gave presentations on the implementation of government welfare programmes and public service delivery.
Reviewing the district's human rights and child welfare framework, Kanoongo discussed the functioning of the Child Helpline, implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the role of the Child Welfare Committee, and the progress of child protection and welfare schemes.
He urged all departments to work in close coordination to ensure that welfare benefits reach every eligible beneficiary and called for greater sensitivity while addressing issues concerning children and other vulnerable groups.
Stressing the importance of early childhood education, Kanoongo advocated the use of mother tongue as the medium of instruction in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), saying it enhances children's cognitive abilities, preserves cultural heritage and provides a strong foundation for future learning.
The interaction also enabled departmental heads to share experiences, highlight local challenges and suggest measures for strengthening institutional mechanisms to safeguard human rights and promote child-friendly governance.
Kanoongo is also scheduled to participate in the two-day Regional Convention on Child Rights organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), which has brought together representatives of State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights from across the Northeast to deliberate on strengthening child rights through regional cooperation.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of the NHRC and the Tawang district administration to improving human rights protection, reinforcing child welfare systems and ensuring inclusive and effective governance.