Port Blair, Mar 20: The Directorate of Social Welfare hosted an enlightening Online Video Conferencing Session focused on the Child Helpline number 1098. The virtual meeting brought together PRI Members, ASHA Workers, SHG Members, Health Workers, Women Helpline (WHL) Members and Teachers, uniting them in a common cause to safeguard children’s rights and welfare. The Session was inaugurated by Mrs. Beena Das, Helpline Administrator (CHL).
Simultaneously, Mrs. Lalita Kujur,(Call Operator) explains ICDS Scheme is the world’s largest community based programme. The scheme is targeted at children upto the age of 6 years, pregnant and lactating mothers and women 16-44 years of age. The scheme is aimed to improve the health, nutrition and education (KAP) of the target community. Conclusion: Studies conducted across the country have observed that various factors contributed to the efficient service delivery of ICDS. Our study exposes some key factors that affect the effective implementation of the scheme and the felt needs of its implementers at the grass root level.
Subsequently, Mrs. G.Mani Kumari (call operator) explains child marriage. Marriage is one of the important social institutions and it is a means of establishing a family through which the society perpetuates. In India 45 percent of girls who were below 18 years. Majority of girls who were married below 18 years are from poor and below poverty line (BPL) families. Nearly 80 percent of girls are facing domestic violence (beaten, slapped or threatened), and health problems. Most of the girls who are married before 18 years are likely to get pregnancy problems and there were death cases reported. Girls younger than 15 are five times more likely to die in childbirth than women in their 20s.The age group below 18 years has high fertility. Child brides often show sign symptomatic of sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress such as feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and several depression.
Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director (Social Welfare), emphasized that the objective of these online sessions is to raise awareness among the society about Child HelpLine 1098 and its significance in addressing child-related issues and concerns. He also said that every child receives timely and adequate assistance and that society as a whole is vigilant and responsive to the needs of its youngest members. The Child Helpline (1098) is a step towards creating a safer environment for every child and he believes that empowered and educated community members are fundamental in bringing about this change.