Kargil, Apr 22: A tehsil-level awareness programme on Poshan Pakhwada and early child marriage was organised at Government Higher Secondary School, Shargole, bringing together educators, child welfare officials, and students to deliberate on nutrition and child protection concerns.
The initiative, led by ICDS Project Shargole in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Kargil and the host institution, aimed to sensitise children, adolescents, and the wider community on balanced nutrition and the social and legal implications of early marriage.
Serving as resource persons, Dr. Niyaz, Chairperson of DCPU Kargil, and Principal Mohd Naqi addressed the gathering, alongside school staff, ICDS supervisors Punchok Dolma and Kacho Mustafa, Anganwadi workers, and students. The programme witnessed active participation, reflecting growing community engagement on child welfare issues.
Welcoming attendees, Supervisor Kacho Mustafa outlined the objectives of Poshan Pakhwada, underlining its focus on improving nutritional awareness at the grassroots level. Principal Mohd Naqi, in his address, emphasised the role of education, responsible parenting, and proper nurturing in shaping a child’s overall development.
Dr. Niyaz elaborated on existing child welfare schemes and drew attention to the persistent issue of early child marriage. He highlighted legal frameworks, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, urging participants to remain vigilant and informed about safeguards designed to protect minors.
A notable feature of the programme was the display of local and traditional ethnic foods, intended to promote awareness of indigenous diets suited to the region’s climate and cultural practices. Participants were encouraged to incorporate these nutritional resources into their daily routines.
The event concluded with refreshments, marking the end of a programme that sought to reinforce awareness on nutrition, strengthen understanding of child protection laws, and foster community responsibility towards ensuring a safer environment for children.
