Paperman Media । Bhubaneswar, November 1
The 16th Foundation Day of the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) was celebrated with enthusiasm on November 1 at Kalinga Convention Hall, Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar.
The celebration was graced by Hon’ble Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Smt. Surama Padhy; Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, and Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj; Chairperson of OSCPCR, Smt. Babita Patra; Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women, Smt. Shobhana Mohanty; and other members of the Commission.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Speaker Smt. Surama Padhy emphasised that ensuring the safety and protection of children's rights is a fundamental responsibility of society. Describing children as the future of the nation, she stressed the need to provide them with a safe, secure, clean and conducive environment where they can grow and progress with confidence.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj felicitated the young participants by distributing prizes and encouraging their enthusiasm and talent. He highlighted the importance of instilling strong values in children and nurturing their sense of responsibility towards their families. He urged elders not to compromise children's present in the name of preparing them for tomorrow, but to ensure that they grow up in a safe environment and get opportunities to showcase their talents on the global stage.
OSCPCR Chairperson Smt. Babita Patra highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Commission since assuming office. She informed that the first year's programme was titled 'Batsalya', followed by 'Adyasha' in the second year. On the occasion of the 16th Foundation Day, she reiterated the Commission's role as a vigilant guardian of children's rights, emphasising the importance of listening to children's voices, understanding their concerns and creating awareness about their rights.
As part of the celebration, essay writing and drawing competitions were organised to encourage creativity and self-expression among children. A special discussion and deliberation session titled 'Adyasha – Hope of Childhood, Voice of the Future' focused on creating a supportive and enabling environment to nurture children's dreams and aspirations.
To encourage children to express their views freely, written submissions were invited on four key themes: online safety, education, child marriage and family-based care. Students actively shared their thoughts and perspectives, making the session an engaging and enriching experience.
During the programme, children were also sensitised about the emergency child protection helpline 1098 and the Child Rights Protection Helpline 18003454494.
Emphasis was laid on creating widespread awareness about these important support services to ensure that children know where to seek help whenever required.
