ZIRO, October 1: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), in collaboration with the District Administration and the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD), organised a comprehensive child rights awareness programme at Mihin Bagang Government Secondary School, Hapoli, on October 1.
The programme was organised as part of the state’s broader “28-District Child Rights Outreach, Awareness and Child Welfare Assessment Campaign” under the theme “Know Your Rights – Protect Every Child”. The initiative aimed to promote awareness of legal rights, child protection mechanisms and emerging challenges affecting children and young people in Lower Subansiri district.
The programme began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a welcome address by Kago Maya Gyati, Deputy Director (ICDS) cum District Child Protection Officer (DCPO). Students, teachers and local community representatives participated in the programme.
Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, Superintendent of Police Techi Hanyir, and APSCPCR members Niri Chongruju and Taba Champa Riba addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of collective and multi-agency efforts to safeguard children and create a secure environment for their growth and development.
During the technical sessions, APSCPCR members familiarised participants with key legal safeguards, including provisions under the Juvenile Justice Act, POCSO Act and Right to Education, besides school safety guidelines. The sessions also addressed mental health, emotional well-being and the importance of staying away from substance abuse.
The Officer-in-Charge of the Women Police Station spoke about emerging digital risks faced by children and adolescents. Participants were provided guidance on online safety, responsible use of social media, cyberbullying and gaming-related concerns.
District Labour and Employment Officer N Pugang highlighted the need to prevent child labour and child marriage and encouraged participants to remain vigilant against practices that can adversely affect children’s education, safety and development.
The programme also featured an interactive session in which students and community members shared their experiences, raised local concerns and interacted directly with district officials. The organisers said the initiative helped strengthen awareness among participants about children’s rights, available safeguards and the collective responsibility to protect children across the district.
