One-Day Training Camp in Janjehli Empowers Over 120 Frontline Workers on Child Welfare Schemes.
Shimla:
In a significant step toward strengthening child welfare initiatives at the grassroots level, a one-day training camp was organised today at Janjehli in the Seraj Block of Mandi district. The event was conducted under the aegis of the District Child Protection Unit and saw the enthusiastic participation of over 120 staff members from the Women and Child Development Department.
The training aimed to provide in-depth awareness and capacity-building on various child welfare schemes currently being implemented across Himachal Pradesh, with a special focus on the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana and the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana. These schemes are designed to support orphaned and underprivileged children by ensuring their access to education, healthcare, security, and a dignified future.
Focus on Empowerment and Inclusion
While addressing the gathering, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) N.R. Thakur highlighted the transformational impact of schemes such as Mission Vatsalya, Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana, and Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana. He emphasised that these initiatives not only provide a safety net for vulnerable children but also empower them to lead stable, productive lives.
“We must ensure that no eligible child is left out. It is our collective responsibility to reach every corner of our community and extend the benefits of these schemes to those who need them the most,” said Thakur.
He provided a comprehensive overview of the objectives, implementation mechanisms, and eligibility criteria of the schemes, encouraging field-level staff to work proactively in identifying and supporting eligible beneficiaries.
Legal Awareness and Protection Frameworks
The training also included sessions on crucial legal frameworks, particularly the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Emphasis was placed on the rights and protection of children belonging to marginalised and neglected communities, including children of sex workers, to ensure they are safeguarded from abuse and exploitation.
Protection Officer Shailja Awasthi conducted a detailed session on the dangers of child marriage and introduced participants to other vital child protection initiatives such as the Sponsorship Scheme, After Care Program, and the legal process of adoption.
Highlight on Community Engagement and Nutrition
Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Ramesh Chand Thakur shared valuable information on various ongoing development schemes operational in the Janjehli block. These include:
- Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao
- Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM)
- Poshan Abhiyaan
He stressed the importance of engaging with local communities and ensuring that information and benefits of these schemes reach every household, especially in remote and tribal areas.
Interactive Sessions and Outreach Materials
The training program concluded with a Question and Answer session, allowing attendees to voice concerns, share ground realities, and seek clarifications on specific implementation challenges. To aid further outreach efforts, informational brochures and promotional materials related to child welfare schemes were distributed to all participants.
Strengthening the Foundation of Child Welfare
This training marks a significant move towards enhancing the effectiveness of child-centric initiatives in remote and underserved regions like Janjehli. By equipping frontline workers with updated knowledge and legal tools, the District Child Protection Unit is working to ensure that every child—regardless of background—is given the opportunity to thrive.
