BALEMU, Sep 19: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR) took its child rights awareness campaign to the border village of Balemu in West Kameng district, organising a sensitisation programme on child protection and welfare on Friday.
APSCPCR members Miti Libang and Honluk Lukham led the programme, which focused on creating greater awareness among local communities about children’s rights and protection mechanisms.
Libang stressed the importance of ensuring the overall well-being of children and creating child-friendly environments at home, in schools and public spaces. She urged parents, teachers, caregivers and the community to share responsibility for protecting children.
Lukham highlighted the need to extend child rights outreach to remote areas and sensitised participants on the Right to Education, school bullying and the responsibilities of teachers and caregivers.
Officials from the Departments of Women and Child Development, Health Services and Police, and District Child Protection Unit also addressed the gathering on issues including drug abuse, child labour, early marriage, mental health, POCSO provisions, digital safety and online gaming addiction.
Deputy Director, WCD, West Kameng, RT Deru, outlined measures being taken to address child-related challenges in the district, while DCPU Protection Officer Rinchin Megegee explained the role of the Juvenile Justice Board, Child Welfare Committee and DCPU.
Clinic Psychologist Kenju Pakam spoke on children’s mental health and emotional well-being and urged parents to identify warning signs at an early stage. Advocate Ajit Sasusow explained provisions of the POCSO Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.
Balemu Police Station OC Leiki Norbu highlighted online safety and digital child protection and cautioned residents against online scams.
The programme also witnessed the launch of ‘Poshan Connect–Poshan Exchange’ by CDPO Kalaktang DK Thungon. The initiative seeks to promote sharing of home-grown food, fruits and vegetables among citizens as part of Poshan Maah activities. (DIPRO)