State to have Child Policy, Disaster Contingency Plan for children

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 27: A State Level Consultation workshop was organized by Social Welfare Department in collaboration with Save the Children to finalize the State Child Policy, which provides comprehensive insights into the current needs of children in J&K.
The State Child Policy and Plan of Action 2014 strive to secure all the children of J&K the right to happy childhood as envisaged under the Constitution of J&K. The State affirms to ensure implementation of the State Policy for Children, 2014 and commitment made thereof. The State Government will undertake all measures and create an enabling environment for survival, growth, development and protection of all children, so that every child can realize his or her inherent potential.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Social Welfare M.S. Rather said that the department has a clear mandate to work for the development of weaker sections of the society. He further added “when we develop any policy it is not only for one department but all the departments have to make it a joint venture for its effective implementation”.
Mission Project Director, ICDS Dr. G. N. Itoo said that it is very encouraging that not only the draft policy has been framed but suggestive framework in the shape of State Plan of Action for Children has been developed. This initiative will guide the State to formulate actions to the specific needs of the children in the State. He said that the State would be having draft Disaster Contingency Plan for Children as well.
State Programme Manager, J&K, Save the Children   Mohammad Sharif Bhat emphasized that Government, civil society, media and the other stakeholders must work together to secure the future of  children of the State. He said that State Child Policy was drafted in 2010. Mr. Bhat said that it is a living document which will guide the State to formulate schemes and strategies for various categories of children in the State.
The programme was attended by the Programme Officers, Deputy Directors of Social Welfare Department and representatives of Save the Children.

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