Governor Nand Kishore Yadav reviewed the functioning of the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR) during a meeting with Commission officials at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on September 24.
The Commission presented an overview of its activities and initiatives since 2023, including monitoring the implementation of key child protection laws such as the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, POCSO Act, 2012, Right to Education Act, 2009, and Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, across Nagaland.
The Commission said it has conducted awareness programmes involving tribal bodies, village councils, schools and District Heads of Departments, while facilitating coordination among the Police, Judiciary, Social Welfare, Health, Education, Labour and NGOs. It has also inspected Child Care Institutions, Observation Homes, Special Homes and schools.
Other initiatives include training police personnel on the JJ and POCSO Acts at the State and district levels, media workshops on “Child Friendly Media” and child protection, and talk shows through Radio and Doordarshan. The Commission has also initiated efforts to incorporate provisions of the JJ and POCSO Acts into the curriculum of the Nagaland Police Training School.
The review highlighted challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and facilities for children requiring care and protection, particularly those with mental health concerns, substance abuse issues and disabilities. The Commission also sought additional Members and regular staff, along with enhanced Grant in Aid, to effectively carry out its functions.
Its future plans include promoting child-friendly rooms in courts and police stations and continuing awareness, sensitisation and capacity-building programmes across all districts. Focus areas will include substance abuse prevention, child trafficking and exploitation, online and digital safety, children with disabilities and sensitisation of key stakeholders.
The meeting reviewed the Commission’s ongoing efforts, challenges and priorities for strengthening child protection mechanisms and promoting the rights and welfare of children in Nagaland.