Mandi task force replacing begging bowls with books for children
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District-level initiative launched on Gandhi Jayanti to curb child begging
MANDI: In a significant move aimed at addressing child begging, a district-level task force has been constituted in Mandi in Himachal Pradesh.
Operating under directives from the National Commission for Child Rights, the initiative aims to rescue children involved in begging and provide them with access to education. Children who once held begging bowls will soon hold books, receiving the right to education as guaranteed under Indian law.
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Identifying vulnerable spots
According to District Child Protection Officer NR Thakur, 12 locations within Mandi district have been identified as hotspots where children involved in begging or labour may be found. The task force has already conducted an initial sweep in Sundernagar; however, no children involved in begging were located. Efforts will continue across other designated areas in the district, with monthly checks planned to locate and assist vulnerable children.
To effectively combat child begging, a collaborative task force has been formed, involving officials from various departments, including the district administration, police, child protection unit, health, education, women and child development and labour. Each month, the team will target a different location, conducting inspections and identifying children not attending school who may be engaged in begging or other forms of labor.
Public encouragement to report child begging
The task force has issued an appeal to the public, urging anyone who sees children begging or engaged in labour to report these cases to the District Child Protection Unit. “Community support is essential,” stated Thakur, emphasising the importance of a collective approach to ensure that children are provided their right to education and a pathway out of vulnerability.
This campaign, launched on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, reflects a commitment to empowering children with education and safeguarding them from exploitation. By addressing root issues and coordinating efforts, Mandi’s district authorities hope to reshape the future for children who might otherwise be denied their fundamental rights.
