Governor engages in heartfelt talk with children
The Department of Social Welfare, Women and Child Development organised “Baal Sabha – Mann Ka Samvad”, a special interactive session of children with Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria at Tagore Theatre here today.
The initiative aimed to foster a child-friendly governance model by facilitating a meaningful two-way interaction between the children of government schools, Child Care Institutions (CCIs), and the Administrator. The dialogue focused on key issues such as child rights, education, health, drug abuse, safety, security, and the everyday challenges faced by children.
The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of over 800 children from government schools, periphery areas, and CCIs. Also present were Chairperson of the Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR), members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), teachers, and staff from CCIs—stakeholders who play a pivotal role in child care and protection across the UT.
The children actively participated in the dialogue and cultural performances, including Saraswati Vandana, gidda, bhangra, and a creative ramp walk showcasing child rights.
The Governor also launched a pamphlet on Child Helpline-1098 in Braille, an inclusive initiative welcomed by all, and appreciated the department’s commitment to inclusive communication.
Addressing the children, the Administrator emphasised the power of positive influence and peer groups. Reflecting on his own childhood, he encouraged children to surround themselves with those who inspire and guide them in the right direction. He reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to child-inclusive governance, assuring that children’s voices would be heard and reflected in future policies. He also directed that more such Baal Sabhas be conducted regularly to continue this meaningful engagement.
Kataria lauded the handicraft items created by children from CCIs under the “Hunar Ki Udaan” project, terming it a commendable initiative toward empowering young minds.
Notably, the Director General of Police suggested organising visits for children to Child-Friendly Rooms at police stations, a step towards changing perceptions and building trust in the police force as a source of care and protection.
Pushpendra Kumar, Director General of Police; Amit Kumar, Municipal Commissioner; Nishant Kumar Yadav, Labour Commissioner-cum-Deputy Commissioner; Anuradha Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare; Dr Palika Arora, Director, Social Welfare; Shipra Bansal, Chairperson, CCPCR; Dr AK Attri, Director Principal, GMCH-32; and other senior officers of the Administration were also present on the occasion.
Chandigarh