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Project Objectives

  • To support district administration and coordinate with various relevant departments, stakeholders, and Civil Society Organisations to support implementation
  • To support line departments and engage master trainers
  • To strengthen the mechanism to engage women collectives
  • To improve linkages of vulnerable children and families with social protection schemes and programs
  • To strengthen existing child protection structures at district, block, and village levels focusing on child welfare and protection committees
  • To support the effective implementation of Social Behavioural Change activities in the child protection area
  • To leverage funds from different relevant programs and schemes
  • To support the documentation and knowledge management of child protection
  • To strengthen monitoring mechanisms
Population focus
  • Tribal adolescent population including Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
  • Child marriage prevalent pockets/communities including Other Backward Classes (OBC), Scheduled Castes (SC) and other economically and socially marginalized communities
  • Out-of-school children, adolescents with single mothers, and other vulnerable adolescents
  • Married adolescent girls

Ending Child Marriage

Ending child marriage is a moral imperative and a critical step toward achieving gender equality and social justice. Child marriage robs children of their childhood, education, and future opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and inequality. Through concerted efforts of district administrations, DPCs, communities, civil society organizations, and individuals, it can be ensured that every child is protected from the harmful effects of child marriage and is empowered to fulfill their potential. Together, a future can be built where every child can thrive, free from the shackles of early and forced marriage. With a special focus on children from marginalized, tribal, and deprived communities, Sampark in its fourth phase, aims to ensure strengthened child protection mechanisms, and aware committees that ultimately lead to the reduction of child marriage cases in the 12 districts of Jharkhand.

Ending Violence Against Children

Ending violence against children is crucial for their safety and well-being. UNICEF emphasizes a comprehensive approach involving governments, communities, families, and individuals. Strategies include promoting positive parenting, educating on children's rights, and providing support services for vulnerable families. Effective laws and policies are necessary to hold perpetrators accountable. UNICEF India's Country Programme focuses on preventing violence and supporting survivors. The End Violence Against Children (EVAC) Strategy unites various sectors and stakeholders in this effort. Together, a world can be created where children thrive free from harm and violence.

Mission Vatsalya

Mission Vatsalya is a pioneering initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD, GoI) started in the year 2021 – 2022. Mission Vatsalya embodies a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by children in India. With a focus on ensuring the well-being, protection, and development of every child, Mission Vatsalya aims to eradicate issues such as child marriage, child labor, trafficking, and exploitation. Through collaborative efforts with the government, civil society organizations, and grassroots communities, Mission Vatsalya endeavors to build a future where every child is cherished, nurtured, and empowered to lead a dignified life.

Mission Vatsalya is a roadmap to achieve development and child protection priorities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It emphasizes child rights, advocacy, and awareness along with strengthening the juvenile justice care and protection system with the motto to 'leave no child behind'.

Prohibition of Child Marriage (PCMA) Act, 2006 Act

The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) of 2006 is a significant legislation designed to prevent the practice of child marriage and protect the rights of children in India. The act prohibits the solemnization of marriage where either the bride or groom is below the prescribed legal age, which is 18 years for girls and 21 years for boys.

The act emphasizes the importance of creating awareness and promoting education about the harmful effects of child marriage. It mandates the implementation of programs and initiatives aimed at sensitizing communities and empowering individuals to recognize and prevent child marriage. Through its provisions and enforcement mechanisms, the PCMA seeks to uphold the rights and well-being of children, ensuring that they are protected from the detrimental consequences of early and forced marriages.

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences(POCSO) ACT, 2012

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, enacted in 2012, is a crucial legislation aimed at safeguarding children from sexual abuse and exploitation. The act provides a comprehensive framework to address various aspects related to the protection of children, including legal provisions, procedures, and support mechanisms.

The POCSO Act outlines stringent measures for the reporting, investigation, and trial of offenses related to child sexual abuse. It mandates the establishment of special courts to handle cases under the act, ensuring speedy trials and specialized attention to the needs of child victims. The act also emphasizes the importance of child-friendly procedures during investigation and trial, prioritizing the protection of the child's privacy and dignity. It aims to create a protective environment for children, empowering them to report instances of sexual abuse and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

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