In a decisive move to combat child begging and address the plight of children in street situations, the Social Welfare Department’s Mission Vatsalya conducted a comprehensive awareness and intervention drive in the bustling markets of Kishtwar.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mr. Zubair Ahmed Lone (KAS), District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Kishtwar, underscores the district’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable children.
Officials from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) and Child Helpline (1098) actively participated in the campaign. Their efforts focused on identifying and supporting children who are being forced into begging, rag-picking, selling items, or undertaking hazardous labor, such as work at construction sites.
“This campaign is a step toward addressing the root causes of child exploitation and ensuring that every child has access to a safe and nurturing environment,” an official involved in the drive stated.
The team also emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging locals to report cases of child exploitation through Child Helpline 1098, a 24/7 toll-free service dedicated to child welfare.
The initiative reflects Mission Vatsalya’s larger mandate to protect children from abuse, exploitation, and neglect, reinforcing the district administration’s commitment to a child-friendly society. Further follow-up and rehabilitative measures will be undertaken to provide support to the rescued children and their families.
The district administration appeals to all residents to cooperate in this noble mission and play an active role in eradicating child labor and begging from the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk