Sikkim: 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' completes 10 years; awareness programme held in Gyalshing
A key highlight of the event was the awareness drive on Child Helpline 1098, a 24-hour toll-free service dedicated to assisting children in distress.
LOCAL
The Women, Child, Senior Citizen, and Persons with Disabilities Welfare Department, Gyalshing, organized a comprehensive Awareness-cum-Sensitization Programme to mark the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative. The event underscored the importance of empowering girls through education and ensuring their rights and safety in society.
The programme witnessed active participation from students and community members, reinforcing the significance of gender equality and child welfare. Addressing the gathering, Ms. Roma Basnett, a representative of BBBP, highlighted the transformative power of girls' education. "Educating girls is not just about individual growth but about uplifting entire communities," she stated.
Adding to the discussions, Mr. Yogesh Nirola from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) elaborated on the various child protection and safety measures undertaken by the department. His session focused on fundamental child rights, relevant laws, and the services available to protect children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
A key highlight of the event was the awareness drive on Child Helpline 1098, a 24-hour toll-free service dedicated to assisting children in distress. The participants were informed about how the helpline responds to cases of child abuse, missing children, and child labor, providing immediate intervention and legal support.
The programme also saw the active participation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from Lingchom and Tikjek, along with department staff members. Speakers emphasized collective responsibility in safeguarding children and encouraged communities, schools, and professionals to remain vigilant and advocate for children's rights.