Prayatn Sanstha, under ‘Sambal’ Project, which is supported by Kindernothilfe e.V., organized a one-day capacity building workshop for members of the Block level Child Protection Committee at the block auditorium in Cholapur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 10th July 2025. The aim was to enhance member’s understanding of child rights and protection issues, and to sensitize them towards their roles in addressing child labour, child marriage, child abuse, school dropouts, and substance use among children.
The event began with a briefing about Prayatn Sanstha and the Sambal Project by Project Officer Mr. Sonu Gaur and Advocacy Officer Mr. Sundar Singh. They shared that Prayatn, registered in 1992, is currently working in Rajasthan, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Through the Sambal Project being implemented in 50 villages of Cholapur Block, the organization is working to improve children’s education, eliminate child labour, promote child protection, and develop child-friendly villages by strengthening local protection structures.
Acting as resource person, Mr. Anil Kumar, Divisional Child Protection Consultant (UNICEF), explained the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (Amended 2021). He spoke about how Block and Village level Child Protection Committees can act at the grassroots level by engaging with schools and Anganwadi centers to create safer spaces for children.
Ms. Nirupama Singh, Child Protection Officer (Institutional), guided participants to ensure issues like child marriage, labour, abuse, and school dropouts are regularly discussed in panchayat meetings and included in local agendas. Block Development Officer and Committee Secretary, Mr. Shivnarayan Singh, emphasized holding village-level committee meetings every three months. He encouraged officials to link eligible children and families with government schemes and added, we must ensure no child is forced into labour and government support reaches the last child.
Ms. Shikha Singh, Child Protection Officer (Non-Institutional), shared details about sponsorship schemes and Mukhyamantri Bal Seva Yojana. The session also focused on preventing child labour and promoting children’s access to education and welfare services. Legal provisions were explained, and participants were encouraged to use Child Helpline 1098 for reporting issues.
Participants raised concerns over delays at district-level in updation about applications of linkage of destitute children with welfare schemes. The officer assured better communication ahead.
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks and a collective commitment to work for the safety and wellbeing of children. Members appreciated Prayatn Sanstha’s efforts and assured their full support to take the work forward. They felt inspired to take concrete steps to ensure a protective environment in Cholapur block.
