Jammu, March 11, 2024In a significant move towards ensuring the welfare and protection of children in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated a two-day training program on ‘Strengthening of Child Protection Systems’ in Jammu today. The event, themed ‘Leave No Child Behind,’ underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a sensitive and supportive ecosystem for the young generation.During his address, Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha emphasized the fundamental right of every child to a caring home. He announced ongoing efforts to fortify adoption mechanisms, aiming to secure a happy childhood for each and every child in the Union Territory.”Our policy is ‘Don’t Touch the Innocent and Don’t Spare the Culprit,'” declared the Lt Governor, highlighting the malicious attempts by elements responsible for terrorism to lure young boys and girls into unlawful activities. He urged the police and security forces to remain vigilant and take preemptive measures to protect innocent children.Under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the administration is working with sensitivity to connect children in need with institutional and non-institutional systems, empowering them to contribute to nation-building, stated Lt Governor Sinha.In an effort to facilitate the re-integration of children in institutional care into mainstream society after turning 18, the Lt Governor outlined ongoing support initiatives.Addressing stakeholders, volunteers, and youth clubs, Lt Governor Sinha emphasized their crucial role in the rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law. He acknowledged their vital contribution to the holistic development of children under Mission Vatsalya.The Lt Governor shared key initiatives taken by the administration, including the issuance of Juvenile Justice Rules 2021, the reorganization of the Juvenile Justice Board, and the notification of the rehabilitation policy for children living in street situations.A significant reform highlighted by Lt Governor Sinha was the establishment of the UT Level Adoption Resource Agency and the operation of 12 Specialized Adoption Agencies and Cradle Baby Reception centers across the Union Territory.Since 2022-23, a total of 34 children have found homes, and 47 childcare institutions, namely ‘Palash’ and ‘Parisha’ for boys and girls, have been established. The Lt Governor praised the achievements in streamlining the legal adoption process.Further simplifying the policy of adopting elder children and approving the Foster Care Fund under the Juvenile Justice Act in January 2023 were also mentioned as milestones.The Lt Governor called upon all sections of society to discharge their responsibility in supporting children in need, particularly those who lost their parents during the Covid pandemic. He urged dedicated efforts at the Panchayat level for the holistic development of children under Mission Vatsalya.The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Sh Atal Dulloo, Additional Secretary of Mission Vatsalya Sh Sanjeev Kumar Chadha, Joint Secretary Ms. Preeti Pant, Secretary in the Social Welfare Department Ms. Rachna Sharma, senior officials from the Government of India, Union Territory, and Police administration, as well as prominent citizens and various stakeholders. The two-day training program aims to equip police and other stakeholders with the tools and knowledge necessary for the effective strengthening of child protection systems in the region.
Lt Governor Inaugurates ‘Strengthening of Child Protection Systems’ Training Program in Jammu
