Anantnag: On the directions of the Commissioner Secretary, and under the banner of Mission Vatsalya Anantnag , the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Anantnag, District Child Protection Unit, Child Help Line Anantnag along with other stakeholder conducted a Child in Street Situations (CISS) drive on 2^nd day of ongoing efforts to identify the children in such situation.

The drive targeted sensitive hotspot areas of the district to identify and rescue minor children engaged in labor work and begging in hazardous environments, as per the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.  On the second day of the drive, team of officials conducted extensive outreach activities across key areas of Anantnag town and its peripheries. The team identified and intervened in several instances of child labour and beggary, working to educate both children and adults about the legal and social implications of exploiting children for work or as beggars.

The authorities reiterated the importance of community involvement in the fight against child labour and child beggary. They called on the public to report any such instances through the helpline, ensuring swift action and protection for affected children.

During the drive, four children were identified and rescued from situations involving child labor and begging.   The CWC conducted a thorough assessment of the children’s needs, followed by individual counseling sessions to ensure their well-being and emotional stability.

After counseling, the children were handed over to their parents with assurance that they would not be engaged in labor or hazardous activities in the future.

The drive highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts in safeguarding children’s rights and addressing child labor and exploitation issues. The Mission Vatsalaya Anantnag reiterated its commitment to continuous monitoring and intervention to ensure that rescued children remain in a safe and nurturing environment. Future follow-ups will be conducted to ensure compliance with the assurance given by the parents.

The drive will continue in the coming days, with the primary aim of creating awareness, rescuing children from exploitative conditions, and promoting their rights to education and a healthy, secure environment. Further, media has been actively involved to disseminate the message keeping in consideration the confidentiality of the children.