A state-level conference was held in Jharkhand to ensure the effective implementation of the Mission Vatsalya Scheme and to strengthen child protection mechanisms. This programme was organised under the guidance of the Department of Women, Child Development and Social Security and the Jharkhand State Child Protection Institution, with the collaboration of the Child Welfare Association and the Miracle Foundation. The conference witnessed participation from 225 child stakeholders across various districts, including representatives from CWC (Child Welfare Committee), DCPO (District Child Protection Officers), DEC, DLO, and several non-governmental organisations.

Chief Guest D.K. Saxena (PCCF, Jharkhand), in his address, stated, “Child protection and welfare are not merely administrative tasks but responsibilities that must be carried out with empathy and dedication. This work demands sensitivity and commitment rather than a bureaucratic mindset. It is a significant responsibility that we must undertake with seriousness and unity.”

He expressed concern over the grave issue of human trafficking in the state, emphasising that it is a social evil affecting every section of society. He called for collaborative efforts from all departments, organisations, and the community to address this problem. He also stressed the need for awareness campaigns in every locality and panchayat to ensure immediate assistance for children in distress.

Samira S, Director and Member Secretary of the Jharkhand State Child Protection Institution, remarked, “Mission Vatsalya has brought a ray of hope into the lives of thousands of children. While our state has achieved commendable success in implementing this scheme, we must ensure that no child is left without protection and care. Challenges at the grassroots level need to be addressed with caution and sensitivity.” She also highlighted the importance of strengthening departmental processes and the legal framework for child protection.

SP CID Jharkhand, Nidhi Dwivedi, said, “The police administration is working diligently to address issues such as human trafficking and child exploitation. During rescue operations and rehabilitation efforts, the safety of children remains our top priority. We will continue to collaborate with the Child Welfare Association and other organisations in this mission.”

Deputy Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, Vikas Kumar, in his welcome speech, stated, “Coordination at the divisional and district levels is essential for the effective operation of child protection schemes. The objective of this conference is to understand challenges at the grassroots level and find solutions to ensure that the Mission Vatsalya Scheme reaches every child.”

Member of the Jharkhand State Child Protection Commission, Vikas Dodrajka, emphasised, “The role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in child protection must be strengthened through training and awareness campaigns. We need to ensure that information about child protection schemes and procedures reaches the panchayat and local levels.”

Founder of the Child Welfare Association, Sanjay Mishra, stated, “The role of all stakeholders is crucial for the effective implementation of the Mission Vatsalya Scheme. This scheme is proving to be a milestone in securing a bright and safe future for the children of our state. Together, we must ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach every child.”

The conference also included contributions from representatives of the police department, education department, labour department, and non-governmental organisations, who shared their experiences and discussed challenges in the field of child protection. They offered valuable suggestions to address these issues effectively.