Chümoukedima, November 19 (MExN): The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Chümoukedima held its first consultative meeting in celebration of Child Rights Week at DC conference Hall, Chümoukedima on November 18.
Nikito Zhimomi, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Chümoukedima on his opening remark highlighted the purpose of the meeting. He stated that District Child Protection Unit and Child Helpline 1098 was recently launch in the district in the month of October 2024 and urge the stakeholders to collaborate and coordinate with the department the same in championing child rights in the district.
Poland John, NCS, Deputy Commissioner, Chümoukedima in his key speech highlighted on the recent Child Protection issues that have emerged as a critical concern in various institution including churches and schools, where children are expected to be safe and nurtured.
And also instances of abuse and neglect have highlighted significant gaps in the protective measures currently in place, prompting calls for urgent reforms. Furthermore, 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.
He 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.
Wekhrope Marhu LCPO, DCPU Chümoukedima 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. The scheme aims to provide achieve child priorities in line with the sustainable Development Goals. He 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.
Mhaseto Rhakho, Project Coordinator Child Helpline, Chümoukedima 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. 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, Juvenile Justice Board, Child Care Institution, District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Child Helpline and District Child Protection unit. Altogether 50 participants attended the meeting.
