Soreng, 22 September 2026: The District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Soreng, in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), conducted an awareness session on Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat and Child Helpline (1098) at Ashram Model Residential School, Jhushinthang, on 22 September 2026.
The session aimed to create awareness among students and teachers about the importance of preventing child marriage, protecting children from abuse and exploitation, and ensuring that children are aware of the support systems and services available to them.
Mrs. Gauri Tamang, CDPO-cum-DD, addressed the gathering and spoke about the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign, highlighting the harmful effects of child marriage on children and young people. She also discussed the adverse impact of substance abuse on children and adolescents, along with issues related to child abuse and child protection. She emphasized the importance of creating a safe, supportive and protective environment for children and highlighted the role of students, teachers, families and the community in preventing and reporting situations that may put children at risk.
Mrs. Tek Maya Sharma, Protection Officer, DCPU, conducted an informative session on Child Helpline 1098, explaining the various support and services available through the Child Helpline and DCPU. She highlighted the importance of promptly reporting cases of child abuse, violence, exploitation and other situations requiring care and protection. She also briefed the students on the role of Juvenile Homes, Children’s Homes and other Child Care Institutions in providing care, protection and rehabilitation to children in need.
The session was interactive and informative, with the students actively participating throughout the programme. The children enthusiastically engaged with the speakers, responded to questions and shared their understanding of the topics discussed. As part of the programme, the students also provided video feedback, sharing their views and key learnings from the awareness session.
The School Principal expressed gratitude to the DHEW and DCPU teams for conducting the awareness programme and appreciated their efforts towards strengthening awareness on child protection, child marriage prevention and related issues.
The programme was attended by the School Principal, teachers, students, Mrs. Gauri Tamang, CDPO-cum-DD, and members of the DHEW and DCPU teams. The session concluded successfully with a focus on empowering children with knowledge about their rights, safety, protection and the support services available to them.
