PAGLAM-DAMBUK, 17 Jan: A series of awareness programmes for primary schools, focusing on ‘Safe and unsafe touch and Child Helpline Emergency 1098’ were conducted by the Lower Dibang Valley District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), here from 16 to 17 January.
The programmes were held at multiple locations, including the government primary schools in Loklung, Keba, Paglam Tinali, Paglam-II, and Paglam, besides the government secondary school in Bizari and the government upper primary school in Anpum.
The awareness programme covered topics such as the POCSO Act, Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, safe and unsafe touch, and Child Helpline 1098.
Child Helpline coordinator Embi Mega explained the concept of unsafe touch to the children through a demonstration. She also informed the children and the teachers that if they witness or experience any harm or abuse, they can seek help by calling the Child Helpline 1098 number or the local child helpline number.
DCPU counsellor Ishaya Mili spoke about key laws, including the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation Act), 1986 and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
DCPU Protection Officer Napi Meto dwelt on the roles and responsibilities of the DCPU, and emphasised that the DCPU serves as the implementing unit for child rights in the district, overseeing the care and protection of children in need of care and protection and children in conflict with law.
He further informed that individuals interested in adopting a child must follow the legal process, adhere to the Central Adoption Agency Resource Authority (CARA) guidelines and contact the DCPU for assistance. Additionally, he apprised the participants of the sponsorship programme under Mission Vatsalya, which provides education support, health and nutrition benefits to children of single parents or those living in orphanages.
The awareness programmes saw the participation of 343 children, along with teachers and headmasters of the respective schools.
