Recently, the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) organized a one-day Regional Symposium on Child Protection, Safety, and Child Welfare at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The event aimed to bring together stakeholders from various states and Union Territories to discuss and address crucial issues related to child welfare. With the participation of nine states and the Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, the symposium proved to be a significant platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Participation of Multiple States and Union Territories
The symposium witnessed the participation of representatives from nine states, including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, delegates from the Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh were present. The diverse representation allowed for the sharing of experiences, challenges, and best practices from different regions, fostering a holistic approach to child welfare.
Attendance and Participants
More than 2000 individuals attended the symposium, including members from important bodies such as Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs), Village Child Protection Committees (VCPCs), and Anganwadi Workers. The presence of these stakeholders ensured a comprehensive discussion and representation of multiple perspectives regarding child protection and welfare.
Focus on Amendments in the Juvenile Justice Act
The primary focus of the symposium was the Amendments in the Juvenile Justice Act and their impact on adoption processes. This critical aspect of child welfare was thoroughly discussed, enabling participants to gain insights into the legal framework governing adoption and child protection. The discussions aimed to enhance understanding and improve the implementation of the amended provisions to ensure the welfare of children in need of care and protection.
Sensitization and Capacity Building
During the symposium, the MWCD, in collaboration with the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, launched the Karmayogi Igot platform. This platform is designed for sensitization and capacity building of all functionaries involved in child safety, protection, and welfare, including those working at the village level. The initiative seeks to enhance the knowledge and skills of personnel responsible for safeguarding children, thereby creating a stronger support system for their well-being.
Mission Vatsalya and Improved Support
The symposium also shed light on the successful interventions under Mission Vatsalya. This mission has been instrumental in extending sponsorship, foster care, and aftercare support to children in vulnerable situations and distress. Additionally, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) has launched Support, Advocacy, and Mental Health Interventions (SAMVAD) to provide psycho-social care and mental health support for children in distress. These initiatives demonstrate the commitment of the MWCD and its partners in improving the overall well-being of vulnerable children.
Reuniting Missing Children with Their Families
During the symposium, the Union Minister of Women and Child Development highlighted a significant achievement. Over the past nine years, approximately 3 lakh children who were declared missing have been successfully reunited with their parents through the combined efforts of District Child Protection Units (DCPUs) and the police administration across the country. This remarkable accomplishment showcases the dedication and effectiveness of the child protection mechanisms implemented nationwide.
