With the aim of strengthening children’s rights, safety and protection mechanisms and ensuring a secure future for the next generation, the Tripura State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TSCPCR) organized a Child Rights and Protection Conclave for the first time on Wednesday.
The programme was held at the office of the Tripura State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. During the conclave, emphasis was placed on strengthening measures for the protection of children and preventing violations of their rights.
As part of efforts to curb child marriage, initiatives will also be undertaken at the village level, with greater focus on awareness and community participation to safeguard children and secure their future.
The conclave was attended by representatives from Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) of different districts, District Inspectors of Social Education (DISEs), District Child Protection Officers (DCPOs) and officials from the Child Helpline.
A series of key issues relating to child rights and protection were discussed during the programme. These included effective implementation of the Juvenile Justice Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, expediting investigations into POCSO cases, extending necessary assistance and rehabilitation to victims, combating child trafficking and cyber bullying, ensuring child-friendly environments in schools, and strengthening child helpline services. The participants also deliberated on organizing awareness and exchange programmes on child safety and emerging challenges.
The conclave further discussed ensuring reservation in private schools for children from economically weaker and disadvantaged families under the Right to Education (RTE) Act. Inclusive education for differently-abled children, identification of learning disabilities, evaluation mechanisms and the provision of necessary support services were also taken up for discussion. Representatives from various districts shared their experiences and highlighted challenges faced in implementing child protection measures.
The programme concluded with a call for greater coordination among all stakeholders and the adoption of best practices to further strengthen child rights protection in Tripura.
TSCPCR chairperson Jayanti Debbarma presided over the conclave. Commission Secretary Madhab Paul, other members of the Commission and officials from District Child Welfare Committees were also present.