Sikkim: Awareness program marks 10th anniversary of 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' in Soreng

An awareness program was held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, targeting C and D grade staff from the BDO, ADC, and Zilla Panchayat offices. The event aimed to raise awareness about government schemes focused on child protection, women’s welfare, and legal rights.

Gauri Tamang, CDPO Soreng, led the program by sharing insights into the BBBP scheme and introducing new offices, including the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Child Helpline (CHL), One Stop Centre (OSC), HUB, and Women Helpline (WHL).

Peter Rai, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), spoke in detail about Mission Vatsalya, explaining the DCPU’s role in safeguarding children. Tek Maya Sharma, Protection Officer, highlighted the significance of the POCSO Act 2012, emphasizing its importance in protecting children from sexual offenses.

Deborah Lepcha, Project Coordinator for the Child Helpline, stressed the importance of the helpline number 1098 for reporting child-related emergencies. Deena Rai, Call Operator, explained the One Stop Centre’s services for women in distress and promoted the Women Helpline number 181.

Nutan Lepcha, DMC (DHEW), discussed the HUB’s role in conducting grassroots-level awareness programs to empower women.