Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu urged northeastern states to synchronize efforts against child trafficking, substance abuse, and online threats. He opened the historic North East State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Convention 2026 in Tawang. He stressed that success requires more than economic growth. It demands a safe environment for every child.
Khandu highlighted state-specific initiatives during his address. The Dulari Kanya Scheme supported over 15,500 girls with 38 crore rupees for higher education. The Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign held 134 awareness events. Meanwhile, 25,000 beneficiaries will receive sanitary napkins through a 3.3 crore rupee Girls Health and Hygiene Scheme for 2026-27. Nutrition interventions support 34,000 beneficiaries, while the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana assisted 38,000 individuals.
Operational infrastructure remains a priority. Mission Vatsalya provides sponsorship for 2,500 vulnerable children. Furthermore, 2,479 children receive 4,000 rupees monthly through foster and aftercare support. Officials pointed to the 1098 Child Helpline, the 181 Women Helpline, and One Stop Centres across all 25 districts as vital safety nets. Under Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, authorities cover 1.8 lakh women and children. They upgraded 152 centers and target 125 more.
The two-day summit featured Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul as chair. Guests included Advisor Mutchu Mithi, Tsering Lhamu, and MLA Namgey Tsering. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo emphasized the long-term impact of the discussions held at the Kalawangpo Convention Hall. "The policy recommendations and deliberations from this convention will guide child protection initiatives and strengthen institutional mechanisms across the country over the next 20 years," Kanoongo said.
The event concluded with a regional pledge for inclusive, child-friendly policies. Leaders hope to mirror these models nationwide.
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