Sikkim: Awareness session on ‘Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat’ held in Soreng on Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’s 10th anniversary

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, the Women & Child Development Department, Soreng, organized an awareness session at B. Ed College, Soreng District on the theme "Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat." The event aimed to educate people about the negative impact of child marriage and highlight the collective responsibility of society in eradicating this social issue.

The session saw participation from students, college staff, and officials from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), One-Stop Centre (OSC), District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Child Helpline (CHL), and the Women & Child Development Department.

CDPO Gauri Tamang initiated the session by introducing the BBBP scheme and its implementation in Sikkim. She stressed the program’s role in promoting gender equality, ensuring girl child education, and safeguarding their rights.

Peter Rai (DCPO, DCPU) explained the role of the District Child Protection Unit in safeguarding children’s rights and preventing child marriages. He elaborated on legal frameworks and child protection mechanisms under the "Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat" campaign.

Deborah Lepcha (Program Coordinator, CHL) highlighted the significance of Child Helpline 1098, a 24/7 emergency service for children in distress. She also provided an overview of the POCSO Act, which ensures justice for children facing abuse.

Anusha Thapa (Para-Legal Worker) spoke about the Women Helpline (181) and One-Stop Centre (OSC), which assist women facing violence and distress. She also mentioned Sakthi Sadan in Gangtok, a shelter for women in need of rehabilitation.