DIMAPUR— With an aim to raise awareness about child rights, amplify children’s voices within the community and engage local leaders, AIDA-Child Friendly Dimapur (CFD) celebrated Pre-Children’s Day on November 9 at AV Hall of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, on the theme “Inclusion for every child.”
The event was organised, 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.
An update from AIDA-CFD stated that Rev. Fr. Dr. Roy George, executive director of AIDA, shared an overview of AIDA’s initiatives, particularly Child Friendly Dimapur, and expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organisations supporting the cause.
The secretary of Social Welfare department and director of Mission Vatsalya, Martha R Ritse, who attended the programme as the special guest, emphasised the crucial role of every individual 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 programmes including Mission POSHAN, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and Mission Vatsalya, all focused on supporting child welfare nationwide.
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The secretary elaborated on the Child Marriage Prohibition Act and her work in implementing Mission Vatsalya’s Child Protection Act across 16 districts in Nagaland. She urged the stakeholders to prioritise children’s safety, encouraging the creation of environments where children can explore, learn, and grow.
She further reminded the audience of the national child helpline-1098, which is 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 of Dimapur District Legal Services Authority; and Dhonthaidi Langthasa, gender specialist at Sankalp-District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Dimapur.
The programme featured several performances including a presentation by specially-abled children from Prodigal’s Home, dance by Angel Home, presentation by Deaf Biblical Ministry, a drama on “Inclusion for every child,” fitness dance by Child Rights Club members of Don Bosco Highr Secondary School and a song by Peace Club members of Christina Higher Secondary School.
The report further stated that the celebration with nearly 280 participants has strengthened the community’s commitment to child rights and inclusion.