Pune: Orientation Workshop Held In Pimpri Chinchwad To Strengthen Ward-Level Child Protection Committees
Pune: Orientation Workshop Held In Pimpri Chinchwad To Strengthen Ward-Level Child Protection Committees
Pimpri-Chinchwad, October 11, 2025: An orientation workshop for stakeholders on the formation and functioning of Child Protection Committees under PCMC was held at Autocluster, Pimpri-Chinchwad. The session was jointly organized by the Child Development Project Office (CDPO), PCMC, and attended by representatives from the Education Department, Health Department, Ward Offices, Police Department, and the ICDS team.
The workshop aimed to establish and strengthen Child Protection Committees within PCMC by providing hands-on guidance and training to stakeholders. It focused on key areas such as child rights, child protection, education, skill development, and the welfare of children in urban communities.
The programme began with a presentation by representatives of SATHI, an organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating children from railway stations. Shri Basavraj Shali detailed the organization’s journey and achievements, followed by remarks from Shri Rajveer Singh.
Due to unforeseen emergency meetings involving the police and municipal authorities, the schedule underwent multiple adjustments.
In the inaugural session, Ms. Nandita Ambike spoke about the various dangers faced by children living on the streets and in vulnerable situations. Dr. Varsha Dange emphasized the importance of working closely with children and understanding their challenges, while Dr. Anjali Dhone highlighted the need for both medical and emotional support for children.
Adding to the discussion, Ms. Sunita Bangar raised concerns about paan shops located near educational institutions and their role in promoting addiction among students.
Tejaswini Dhomse Sawai elaborated on the structure, responsibilities, and implementation strategy for Ward-Level Child Protection Committees.
Representing UNICEF, Dr. Sarita Shankaran addressed the social and psychological issues faced by urban children and emphasized the role of parents, teachers, and local authorities in ensuring their well-being. Her colleague, Ms. Geeta Rani Lourembam, guided teachers on how the committees can help prevent family breakdowns, create safer environments, and promote child participation.
Ms. Manisha Biraris, CDPO from Pune, highlighted the crucial role of these committees in transforming the overall environment for children’s safety and growth.
The workshop saw participation from over 150 attendees, including around 10 guest speakers, reflecting strong community engagement and institutional collaboration for child protection in the city.
