Workshop on Child Rights and Protection Framework Conducted in Tezu

Itanagar, India Aug 23, 2026 ALN: The Indian Council for Child Welfare (ICCW-AP), in collaboration with the Lohit District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), district administration, and the All Mishmi Women Welfare Society, organized a comprehensive workshop on the "Child Rights and Protection Framework." This day-long event aimed to address critical issues surrounding child welfare and rights, which have gained increasing attention in recent years due to rising concerns about child exploitation, abuse, and neglect.

The workshop featured prominent speakers, including District and Session Judge Gote Mega as the chief guest and Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo as the guest of honor. Their participation underscored the importance of government and legal support in addressing child rights issues. Other notable attendees included SP Thutan Jamba, DLSA Secretary Rido Pina, and WCD Deputy Director Solel Longling. The event commenced with a keynote address delivered by ICCW life patron Jarjum Ete, who emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to child welfare, highlighting the roles of various stakeholders in ensuring that children's rights are not only recognized but actively protected.

Throughout the day, various technical sessions were held, each focusing on significant topics related to children's rights. Advocate Geyir Potom provided an introduction to child rights and discussed the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). This international treaty, adopted in 1989, is a landmark document that outlines the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of children. It serves as a framework for countries around the world to develop laws and policies that safeguard children's rights. Following this, Advocate Maya Maga elaborated on the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act), outlining its legal framework, school protocols, and available legal remedies for children. The POCSO Act is crucial in providing a legal basis to protect children from sexual offenses and ensuring that offenders are prosecuted effectively.

Addressing the mental health of children, psychologist Tantu Karap spoke about academic stress, depression, and coping mechanisms that can be employed to support young individuals. The pressures of academic performance can lead to significant mental health challenges for children, making it essential for parents, educators, and the community to recognize these issues and provide appropriate support. Soben Karap highlighted the importance of bodily autonomy, consent, and personal boundaries, emphasizing the need for children to understand their rights in these areas. This knowledge is vital for empowering children to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships, ultimately fostering a culture of respect and safety.

In a session dedicated to safety in the digital age, SI H. Jugli discussed digital and cyber safety, equipping participants with knowledge on how to protect themselves online. As technology continues to evolve, children are increasingly exposed to online risks, including cyberbullying, exploitation, and privacy violations. Educating children and their guardians about safe online practices is essential in today's digital landscape. Additionally, Sathyanarayan Mundayoor, known as Uncle Moosa, along with his team, presented innovative reading techniques and various styles of reading. They engaged the audience by acting out a skit based on a book written by a volunteer from the Lohit youth library network. This interactive approach aimed to foster a love for reading and literacy among children, which is a foundational element in promoting their overall development.

The workshop also focused on creating safe spaces for children, both in libraries and at home. Safe spaces are critical environments where children can express themselves freely, seek help, and engage in learning without fear of judgment or harm. The final session addressed the pressing issue of substance abuse among children, presented by Shri Leaveso Ama, coordinator of the Rise Again Foundation. His talk covered predictions, protection strategies, and prevention measures regarding substance abuse, an alarming issue that affects many communities and can have devastating impacts on children's health and future prospects.

The workshop was characterized by high interactivity, with participants actively engaging in discussions and sharing their views on how to strengthen child protection mechanisms in the community. The event underscored the collective responsibility of society to safeguard children's rights and well-being. It is essential for communities to come together to create a protective environment for children, where their rights are respected and their voices heard. The discussions held during the workshop may lead to actionable initiatives and policies aimed at enhancing child welfare and protection frameworks at various levels.

In conclusion, the workshop on the "Child Rights and Protection Framework" in Tezu served as an important platform for raising awareness about the multifaceted issues affecting children today. By bringing together legal, educational, and psychological perspectives, the event highlighted the necessity for a holistic approach to child welfare. The collaborative efforts of organizations like ICCW-AP, DLSA, and local community groups are vital in ensuring that children's rights are upheld and that they can grow in a safe, supportive environment. As society continues to evolve, ongoing dialogue and education around these critical issues will be essential in fostering a future where children can thrive.