Section of the gathering attending the pre-children’s day celebration at AV Hall, Don Bosco Hr Sec School, Dimapur on November 9.
Dimapur, November 9 (MExN): AIDA-Child Friendly Dimapur in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit, Child Helpline, Child Welfare Committee, Sankalp-District Hub for Empowerment of Women, District Legal Services Authority, Prodigal’s Home, Can Youth, Peace Channel, Serendip Guardians, and Assisi Centre for Integrated Development, organised a pre-children’s day celebration at AV Hall, Don Bosco Hr Sec School, Dimapur on November 9.
A press release received here stated that the event aimed to raise awareness about child rights, amplify children’s voices within the community, and engage local leaders, emphasizing the theme “Inclusion for Every Child.”
Rev Fr Dr Roy George, Executive Director of AIDA, opened the program by warmly welcoming everyone. He shared an overview of AIDA’s initiatives, particularly Child Friendly Dimapur, and expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations supporting this cause. He extended special recognition to dignitaries from government departments, NGO representatives, institutions, and local communities for their presence.
Martha R Ritse, IAS, Secretary for Social Welfare and Mission Director of Mission Vatsalya graced the occasion as the special guest. She began by discussing the origins of Children’s Day celebrations, emphasizing their role in raising awareness about children’s rights, care, and education. She underscored the Government of India’s commitment to ensuring access to essential services for all children, including nutrition, healthcare, education, and protection.
She highlighted key legislation, such as the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act, and initiatives like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, which aim to provide quality education for every child in India. Ritse also discussed other significant government programs, including Mission POSHAN, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and Mission Vatsalya, all focused on supporting child welfare nationwide.
She elaborated on the Child Marriage Prohibition Act and her work in implementing Mission Vatsalya’s Child Protection Act across Nagaland’s 16 districts. She urged stakeholders to prioritize children’s safety, encouraging the creation of environments where children can explore, learn, and grow. She also reminded the audience of the national child helpline, 1098, available across India, and extended Pre-Children’s Day wishes to all.
Other speakers included Ela, Director of Prodigal’s Home; Moatila Ao, Panel Lawyer with Dimapur District Legal Services Authority; and Dhonthaidi Langthasa, Gender Specialist with the Sankalp-District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Dimapur.
The programme featured several special performances: a presentation by specially-abled children from Prodigal’s Home, dance by Angel Home, a presentation by Deaf Biblical Ministry, a drama on “Inclusion for Every Child,” a fitness dance by Don Bosco Hr Sec School’s Child Rights Club members, and a song by Christina Hr Sec School’s Peace Club members.
The event, moderated by Lojano and Nathan, Child Rights Club members from Don Bosco Hr Sec School, began with an invocation by Pastor Visasier Kevichusa of Kingdom Culture Church. Lozua Kape, a member of the Child Welfare Committee, concluded the program with a vote of thanks.
