Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) celebrated its 16th Foundation Day at Kalinga Convention Hall, Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar, on Sunday, with a focus on strengthening child protection, promoting awareness of children’s rights and providing a platform for young voices.
The programme was attended by Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, Higher Education, Sports and Youth Services, and Odia Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, OSCPCR Chairperson Babita Patra and Odisha State Commission for Women Chairperson Shobhana Mohanty, among other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Surama Padhy said ensuring the safety and protection of children’s rights was 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 supportive environment where they could grow and pursue their aspirations with confidence.
Minister Suryabanshi Suraj felicitated young participants and distributed prizes to encourage their talent and enthusiasm. He emphasised the importance of instilling strong values in children and nurturing their sense of responsibility towards their families. He also urged elders not to compromise children’s present in the name of preparing them for the future, but to ensure that they grow up in a safe environment and receive opportunities to showcase their abilities at the global level.
OSCPCR Chairperson Babita Patra highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Commission since she assumed office. She said the first year’s programme was titled ‘Batsalya’, followed by ‘Adyasha’ in the second year. Reaffirming the Commission’s role as a vigilant guardian of children’s rights, she stressed the importance of listening to children, understanding their concerns and creating greater 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 session titled ‘Adyasha – Hope of Childhood, Voice of the Future’ focused on creating a supportive environment for children to nurture their dreams and aspirations.
Written submissions were invited from students on four key themes — online safety, education, child marriage and family-based care — to encourage them to express their views freely. Children actively shared their thoughts and perspectives during the discussion.
The programme also included awareness sessions on the emergency child protection helpline 1098 and the Child Rights Protection Helpline 18003454494. Emphasis was laid on ensuring that children are aware of these support services and know where to seek help whenever they face a difficult situation.
