Awareness Programme on POCSO and Prevention of Child Marriage
Gangtok,September 15: Today, the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Gangtok, under the Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, organised an awareness programme at Bhusuk JHS on the topics of POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) 2012 and Prevention of Child Marriage act ,2006, collaboration with 19 Bhusuk-Naitam GPU.
The programme commenced with a welcome speech delivered by Mr.Biren Giri, District Mission Coordinator (DMC), DHEW Gangtok. He introduced the students to Mission Shakti and its sub-schemes, Sambal and Samarthya, and explained their significance in simple and accessible terms.
The resource person, Mr. Pradeep Tamang, drawing upon his legal expertise, provided the students with a clear and easy-to-understand explanation of POCSO and the prevention of child marriage. His session focused on practical awareness so that the students could understand their rights, recognise unsafe situations, and use the knowledge responsibly as they grow older.
Mr. Dependra Gurung, Headmaster of Bhusuk JHS, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the potential dangers and challenges that children may encounter. He encouraged the students to remain aware, cautious, and confident in seeking help whenever necessary.
Ms. Suklata Gurung, Supervisor, Bhusuk-Naitam GPU, spoke about the important role that the community can play in protecting and educating children. She emphasised that collaboration between the community and the Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare Department can strengthen awareness among children and contribute towards creating a safer environment for their growth and development.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Tshering Yonzom Bhutia, DEO, who expressed gratitude to the Headmaster, teachers, resource person, officials of 19 Bhusuk-Naitam GPU, students, and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.
The programme served as an important platform for creating awareness among students about child protection, their rights, personal safety, and the importance of preventing child marriage, while also strengthening coordination between the department, educational institution, and local community.
