Governor of Nagaland, Nand Kishore Yadav reviewed the functioning of the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR) at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on September 24, with the Commission highlighting key achievements as well as gaps in infrastructure, staffing and support for vulnerable children.
During the review meeting, the NSCPCR presented an overview of its activities and initiatives undertaken since 2023, including monitoring the implementation of major child protection laws such as the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, the Right to Education Act, 2009, and the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, across Nagaland.
The Commission informed that regular awareness programmes had been conducted in coordination with tribal bodies, village councils, schools and District Heads of Departments. It has also facilitated convergence among the Police, Judiciary, Social Welfare, Health, Education, Labour and NGOs, besides conducting inspections of Child Care Institutions, Observation Homes, Special Homes and schools.
As part of its outreach initiatives, the Commission conducted talk shows on child rights and protection through radio and Doordarshan and initiated efforts to incorporate provisions of the JJ Act and POCSO Act into the curriculum of the Nagaland Police Training School.
The review also highlighted intensive training programmes for police personnel on the JJ and POCSO Acts at the State and district levels, along with workshops for media professionals on “Child Friendly Media” and the role of the media in child protection.
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The Commission also participated in the deliberations and formulation of the Tawang Declaration during a convergence programme held at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to a collective framework for advancing child rights and protection in the region.
Flagging challenges, the Commission pointed to inadequate infrastructure and facilities for children requiring care and protection, particularly those with mental health concerns, substance abuse issues and disabilities. It also stressed the need for additional Members and regular staff, besides enhanced Grant in Aid, to effectively carry out its mandated functions and activities.
Looking ahead, the NSCPCR plans to promote child-friendly rooms in courts and police stations to provide a child-sensitive environment for children coming into contact with the law enforcement system. It will also continue awareness, sensitisation and capacity-building programmes across all districts, with emphasis on substance abuse prevention, prevention of child trafficking and exploitation, online and digital safety, children with disabilities and sensitisation of key stakeholders.
The review assessed the Commission’s ongoing efforts, challenges and future priorities aimed at strengthening child protection mechanisms and safeguarding the rights and welfare of children across Nagaland.
