Bhubaneswar: The 16th Foundation Day of Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) was celebrated at Convention Hall of Lok Seva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar on Monday under the theme “Adyasha – Hope of Childhood, Voice of the Future”.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida graced the occasion as Chief Guest and emphasised on joint responsibility of all sections of society for safety and overall development of children. She said protection, education and empowerment of children are cornerstones of Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat.
On the occasion, annual report of the Commission was released and “Guidelines for Online Safety of Children in Odisha (2026-2030)” was launched for safety of children in digital age. The initiative aims to protect children from cyberbullying, online grooming, sexual exploitation and other online threats.
The programme began with cultural performance by children. Chairperson Babita Patra delivered welcome address and reiterated Commission’s 16-year journey and commitment towards child-friendly Odisha.
Minister of Law, Works and Excise Prithviraj Harichandan, Minister of Labour and ESI and Forest, Environment and Climate Change Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Women & Child Development Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr Mrinalini Darswal and UNICEF Odisha Chief Prashant Das graced as Guests of Honour.
Chairpersons of State Child Protection Commissions of Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Karnataka and Executive Director of ChildFund India were also present.
Individuals, government officials and institutions who made significant contributions in child protection were honoured on the occasion.
