Leh, October 23, 2025: The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Leh, organized an awareness programme on the Mission Vatsalya Scheme under the Ministry of Women and Child Development at Mahabodhi Residential School, with the aim of sensitizing children and school staff on key child protection laws and mechanisms. The programme focused on Child Rights and Duties, the POCSO Act, 2012, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Childline Helpline 1098.
As part of the session, informative short films — including a POCSO awareness film in the local language and short movies on Child Helpline (CHL) and Open Shelter — were screened to help children better understand these important topics through engaging visual learning.
The awareness session was attended by around 230 children, along with hostel staff and wardens of the school. The programme began with an informative talk by Ms. Fariya Rafiq, Protection Officer (NIC), who elaborated on various child protection provisions and the objectives of Mission Vatsalya. This was followed by a PowerPoint presentation by Ms. Stanzin Dolker, Legal-cum-Probation Officer, highlighting key aspects of the Juvenile Justice and POCSO Acts.
Additionally, Ms Stanzin Palkit ChildHelpline Supervisor interacted with the children, emphasizing the importance of the Child Helpline 1098 as a lifeline for children in distress. The session concluded with the screening of the POCSO awareness film and an interactive Question & Answer session, encouraging children to share their thoughts and clarify doubts.
This programme marks the beginning of a broader awareness campaign by the District Child Protection Unit, Leh, which aims to cover all residential schools in Leh district, starting with Block Leh. A total of five schools is targeted for coverage in the month of October.
Through this campaign, DCPU Leh seeks to empower children with knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and available protection mechanisms, fostering a safer and more informed environment for every child.
