The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Chumoukedima held its first consultative meeting in celebration of “Child Rights Week” on November 18 at DC conference Hall, Chumoukedima.
District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Chumoukedima, Nikito Zhimomi, in his opening remark welcomed the gathering and highlighted the purpose of the meeting.
He also stated that District Child Protection Unit and Child Helpline 1098 was recently launched in the district and urged the stakeholders to collaborate and coordinate with the department in championing child rights in the district.
Deputy Commissioner, Chumoukedima, Poland John in his speech highlighted on the recent Child Protection issues that have emerged as a critical concern in various institution including churches & schools, where children are expected to be safe and nurtured.
He also stated that instances of abuse and negligence have highlighted significant gaps in the protective measures currently in place, prompting calls for urgent reforms. He emphasized on providing accessible legal assistance and providing support services for affected children. He also spoke on the importance of coordination amongst the various agencies to effectively assist children in need of protection.
The DC highlighted on how a collaborative approach is essential for addressing the complex challenges faced by vulnerable children and how fostering communication and cooperation between child welfare organizations, law enforcement, educational institution and healthcare providers, can create a comprehensive support system ensuring timely intervention and assistance.
He called for unity amongst the department, underscoring the need for a collective commitment to safeguarding the well-being of children and ensuring they receive the protection and support they deserve.
LCPO, DCPU Chumoukedima, Wekhrope Marhu presented on the Mission Vatsalya’s Programmes and Services. Mission Vatsalya is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Women and Child Development to support the welfare and rehabilitation of children in India.
He further highlighted the vision and mission of Mission Vatsalya in detail and how Mission Vatsalya scheme aims to provide care, protection and rehabilitation to children who are in difficult circumstances or at risk of such circumstances: Street children, differently abled, abandoned, substance abuser, trafficked, orphaned, child labour, destitute, children affected by disaster or conflict, HIV infected and affected, missing and found, Children of family at risk and child who is alleged or found to have committed an offence.
Project Coordinator Child Helpline, Chumoukedima, Mhaseto Rhakho highlighted about the emergency helpline service “1098”, which is a National 24-hour free emergency phone and outreach service for any children in distress condition up-to the age of 18 years. He also stated that Child Helpline is not just a project but a hope for millions of children.
It is a project under the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) Govt. of India, “Mission Vatsalya”. In addition, he also stated that Child Protection is everyone’s responsibility and that there should be an effective child protection mechanism in championing child Rights in the district.
The meeting concluded with a round of discussion and was attended by various stakeholders such as the District Administration, Judiciary, Police Department, Education Department, Labour Department, District Legal Service Authority, Child Welfare Committee (CWCs), Juvenile Justice Board (JJBs), Child Care Institution (CCIs), District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Child Helpline and District Child Protection unit (DCPU). Altogether 50 participants attended the meeting.