Who is the Child

Hello everyone!

My name is Uttama Surve, and I'm a 14-year-old girl passionate about child protection. I’m proud to serve as the coordinator of the Uttama Child Protection Awareness Program & Protection Organization. I draw inspiration from my father, Mr. Aniruddha Surve, who works as a dedicated Para-Legal Volunteer with Vidhik Seva Pradhikaran. His commitment to public service motivates my work and empowers me to make a difference.

Today, I want to discuss a very important topic - child protection. This issue affects millions of children worldwide, and it is not just my responsibility, but all of ours, to ensure the safety and well-being of every child. Together, we can create a safe and happy environment where all children have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams.

Let’s all come together to contribute to this vital initiative and work toward safeguarding children's rights. Every child deserves a joyful and secure childhood!

This blog focuses on understanding what constitutes a "child."  The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), adopted in 1989 and ratified in 1992, defines a child as anyone under 18, unless the applicable law sets a lower age of majority.  This definition is fundamental to child protection efforts worldwide.  Understanding this definition is key to enacting effective laws and policies to safeguard children's well-being.

**Awareness is the power of children and freedom from exploitation.**

 

How to Protect Children:

Protecting children requires a combined effort from individuals, communities, and governments. Here are three crucial strategies:

• Education and Awareness :-  Teaching children about their rights, safe and unsafe touch, and how to report abuse is vital.  Adults also need education to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect.  Open conversations are key.

• Strong Family Bonds :-  Supportive families provide crucial protection.  Open communication and a safe space for children to express their feelings are essential.  Strong family bonds create a resilient environment for children.

• Community Watchfulness :- Communities must be vigilant.  Neighbors, teachers, and community leaders play a vital role in identifying and reporting potential risks.  A strong community network provides a protective layer for children.

For assistance and further information on child protection, please contact:

• Mr. Aniruddha Surve (PLV) :- 9827399236
• Child Helpline :- 1098
• Bhagwan Das Sahu :- 9329756455
• Palavi Porwal (Chairman of Child Welfare Committee - CWC) :- 9826347009

**Awareness is the power of children and freedom from exploitation.**