Sikkim: Awareness program marks "10 Years of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" at Upper Thambong GPU

An awareness program was held at Upper Thambong GPU, Daramdin Constituency, Soreng District, under the banner of "10 Years of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" (BBBP). The event aimed to raise awareness on child marriage and issues affecting women and children in the community.

Deborah Lepcha, Program Coordinator of Child Help Line (CHL), delivered a keynote speech on the "Bal Vivah Mukht Bharat" campaign. She highlighted the severe impact of child marriage on young girls, including the disruption of their education and its detrimental effects on their health and overall development. She also emphasized the importance of the Child Help Line number 1098, which provides emergency assistance to children facing abuse, exploitation, or neglect.

Following her address, Nutan Lepcha, District Mission Coordinator of the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), elaborated on the hub’s role in supporting women and children. She detailed the services offered by the One Stop Centre, including legal aid, counseling, and medical assistance for women facing violence. She also promoted the Women Help Line 181, a round-the-clock service providing immediate support and guidance for women in distress.

The program saw active participation from the Panchayat President, Panchayat members, and community members, particularly women and youth. Attendees engaged in discussions on child marriage, child protection, and women’s safety.