NCPCR–Odisha Conference Charts Roadmap for Child Safety, Well-Being and Inclusive Education

Bhubaneswar: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in collaboration with the School & Mass Education (S&ME) Department, Government of Odisha, organised a National Conference on Key Child Rights Issues at the Revenue Officers Training Institute (ROTI), Bhubaneswar. The conference brought together senior officials, child rights experts, district representatives and frontline education functionaries to deliberate on critical issues affecting children’s safety, schooling and overall well-being.

The event saw the presence of key dignitaries including Jadumani Mahala, Additional Secretary, S&ME Department; Babita Patra, Chairperson, OSCPCR; Sangeeta Behera, ADG, OSEPA; Dr. Madhulika Sharma, Principal Research & Technical Expert, NCPCR; Manoj Patra, Joint Director, ROTI; and Dr. Santosh Kumar Rout, Joint Director, OSEPA. Representatives from district administrations, ADEOs, mental health officials, DCPOs, and SMC/PTA members also participated.

Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, OSCPCR Chairperson Babita Patra emphasised the need to prevent school dropouts and reduce child migration through seasonal hostels. She highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts between the Women & Child Development and S&ME Departments and called for strengthened community engagement to eradicate child marriage and child labour.

Manoj Patra drew attention to the increasing impact of climate change on child rights and stressed the need for greater awareness about nutrition, sports, and holistic development. Speaking on the state’s commitment, Shri Jadumani Mahala said that ensuring every child remains in school is a top priority, supported through initiatives such as Shishu Vatika and foundational learning programmes.

Delivering the welcome address, Sangeeta Behera underlined the need for safe, inclusive and emotionally supportive learning environments for children. Dr. Madhulika Sharma provided an overview of NCPCR’s major interventions, noting that the Commission has resolved 26,000 child-related cases in the past six months, rescued and rehabilitated 2,300 children from labour and trafficking, facilitated the repatriation of over 1,000 children to CCIs in their home districts, and introduced new efforts such as the Sugar Board and AI-based mental health support systems.