Dear Friends of CINI,
As we closed the year 2024, there were many significant days to be celebrated by children, particularly young people and women with special activities, listed in the second paragraph. First, the most significant happenings, which recognized our interventions to improve the lives of deprived communities, thanks to support we received from all of you, particularly our donors in India and abroad.Our Street Champions from Kolkata were invited by Dr. Najat, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, to share their concerns regarding her upcoming UN report to the UN Human Rights Office.
On 20th October, Dr. Indrani Bhattacharyya, CEO, was invited to the WeProtect International Summit in Abu Dhabi on 4th December, where she shared CINI’s Child Protection interventions. On 21st November, CINI’s experience of working on climate action involving children and women in the Sundarbans was presented at the COP29 Conference in Baku. On 17th September, CINI participated in Bhubaneswar at the Eastern Regional Conference of the Indian Association of Studies in Population to present the good practices to improve health and nutrition status of deprived communities.
On 10th October, all units involved young people to observe World Mental Health Day; on 11th October, the International Girl Child Day; and on 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. On 27th November, CINI attended and facilitated the participation of a street-connected child at the National Children’s Consultation to end violence against children in Delhi.
I will now allow you to go through the newsletter for the 4th quarter covering our activities for the months of October, November, and December, thus ending the year 2024. Wishing all of you in India and abroad a peaceful and happy new year. We hope 2025 will usher in peace and prosperity and an end to all the violence experienced in 2024.
Dr. Samir Chaudhuri,
Founder & Secretary
CEO, CINI participated at WeProtect Global Summit 2024 in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi : Dr. Indrani Bhattacharyya, CEO, CINI participated at WeProtect 2024 Global Summit in Abu Dhabi, which was scheduled for 4th and 5th December. The summit was an excellent platform for CINI to represent the entire South Asia region, and CINI had the opportunity to share the experience at the Breakout Session #3: Emerging Risks and Solutions: Insights from the Ground, Wednesday 4 December 2024.
This session featured 6 speakers from across the globe sharing key insights following a series of 8 working meetings that explored current and future challenges, as well as innovative solutions, to strengthen the localization agenda for combating the sexual exploitation of children facilitated by technology. This provided a unique opportunity to present critical perspectives from regions in the global majority and inspire further collaboration globally.
The agenda also includes prominent high-level experts from UN, with whom CINI has already worked and our children are sharing their thoughts and recommendations, such as:
‘Street Champions’ discussed upcoming report to UNGA with UN Officials
Kolkata : On 20th October 2024, 27 Street Champions and their peers gathered at Amader Bari, representing Wards 46, 65, 47, and 59 of Kolkata for a remarkable interaction with Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, the United Nations Special Representative on Violence Against Children. This meeting, held ahead of Dr. Najat’s report presentation at the UN General Assembly 2024, brought together children from CINI’s units in Murshidabad, Uttar Dinajpur, South 24 Parganas (Ghutiarishariff), and Kolkata, along with representatives from various countries worldwide. Participants shared their personal experiences with violence and proposed actionable solutions, creating a powerful platform for exchange and advocacy. Ishika from the Kolkata Unit and Keya from the Murshidabad Unit delivered impactful presentations, emphasizing the critical need for children’s voices to shape policies and strategies to combat violence. Dr. Najat actively sought their views on the role of local, national, and international governments in addressing this pressing issue, reinforcing the importance of integrating children’s lived experiences into policy frameworks.
Children raised ‘Child Friendly Agenda’ at first Global Ministerial Conference
West Bengal : On 31st October 2024, two “Street Champions” trained by CINI participated in a satellite event at the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children. These street-connected youth shared their powerful lived experiences, discussing the barriers they face in accessing essential services and the violence they encounter. Their presentations emphasized the importance of finding practical solutions, such as organizing vaccination drives and collaborating with local authorities to improve rights-based access to services for children in vulnerable situations. Following this impactful participation, a web story was published on the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) website, highlighting the two child speakers as changemakers who are leading efforts to advocate for children’s rights. You can read the full story here: Changemakers from the Streets Advocating for Children’s Rights.
CINI at National Children Consultation on ending violence against children
New Delhi : The National-Level Consultation, held from 26th to 28th November 2024 in Delhi, was a culmination of efforts from state-level consultations, including one held in Kolkata on 29th October 2024, where 58 participants participated in both online and offline discussions. Jashika Paswan, Street Champion was elected by their peers to represent her peers at the national level, joining children and chaperones from 19 states and representatives of organizations like ILO, Stop Child Exploitation, Miracle Foundation India, and CINI. The event commenced with ice-breaking activities and preparations on 26th November, leading to the official opening on 27th November, graced by dignitaries such as Dr. Rinchen Chophel and Dr. Divya Gupta. Children shared insights from their state-level consultations and participated in discussions on family strengthening and child welfare. The day also included vibrant cultural exchanges to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the UNCRC, fostering unity and shared purpose among the participants.
On 28th November, sessions featured a virtual interface with the UNCRC Committee and dialogues with key government authorities like Mr. B.K. Goel and Dr. Jagannath Pati, focusing on child protection strategies and the challenges faced. Civil society leaders, including Mr. Manu Sharma and Mr. Ponpandian Thangam, engaged with participants to discuss partnerships for enhancing child welfare. The event not only highlighted the collaborative efforts between children, civil society, and government authorities but also set the stage for future partnerships in creating a safer and more inclusive environment for children across India.
Talk to the Mayor Uncle: Children’s Vision for a Better Kolkata
Kolkata: On 23rd November 2024, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation House of Council in Kolkata hosted a significant meeting during the Convention of the Rights of the Child (CRC Week). Organized by CINI in collaboration with NGO partners such as Gana Unnayan Parshad, Garden Reach Alif Nagar, Tiljala Shed, and others, the event brought around 100 children and 190 participants to discuss pressing issues directly with the Mayor of Kolkata.
The children highlighted critical concerns, including the need for child-friendly Anganwadi Centres, improved drainage systems, KMC-run English medium schools in every ward, accessibility features such as Braille and pictorial maps, and enhanced facilities for the differently-abled. They also advocated for the promotion of LGBTQ+ inclusivity, a city-level child protection committee, a Right to Play celebration, swimming lessons, and increased tree plantations to address rising heatwaves.
Honorable Mayor responded positively, acknowledging the children’s concerns and offering solutions.
CINI’s contribution to climate action : Recognised at COP’29, BAKU
Baku, Azerbaijan : CINI’s collaborative effort with The TGI Delhi at COP29 significantly impacted discussions on climate change and mental health, particularly regarding the vulnerabilities faced by communities like the Sundarbans. By focusing on the mental health consequences of climate change for young people, CINI and TGI brought crucial attention to an often-overlooked aspect of climate discourse.
Key Contributions:
Highlighting Mental Health Challenges: The joint presentation emphasized the psychological stress and anxiety exacerbated by climate-related events, such as cyclones and rising temperatures. This focus on mental health is critical, as it connects physical environmental changes to emotional and psychological well-being, particularly among youth in vulnerable regions.
Youth-Led Initiatives: CINI showcased youth-led strategies for resilience and advocacy, demonstrating how young people can be at the forefront of climate action. This approach not only empowers youth but also ensures that interventions are tailored to community needs, fostering a sense of agency.
Integration into Climate Policy: The discussions advocated for the integration of mental health support into broader climate adaptation strategies. By highlighting this need, CINI and TGI urged policymakers to consider mental health as a fundamental component of climate resilience, thereby influencing future policy frameworks.
Fostering Collaboration: Their involvement facilitated new partnerships among organizations focused on mental health and climate action. This collaboration is essential for scaling up research and interventions that address the psychological impacts of climate change globally.
You can easily recall the night or the day-after of Diwali or the post picnic-season conditions of forest, river banks, sea-sides or valleys, the common tourist spots. We have accepted these side effects of festivities. The high decibel sound of crackers or loudspeakers, polluted air, huge amount of solid wastes all these are the by-products of celebrations. But unfortunately, from our jolly pets to the whole eco-system, nothing is prepared for this seasonal catastrophe. Celebrations are a vital part of human life, allowing us to celebrate milestones, express joy, and build connections. However, these significant environmental impacts, including excessive waste production, energy consumption, carbon emissions, and depletion of natural resources, can lead to a permanent environmental hazard. Waste generation from single-use plastics and high energy consumption from lighting, heating, and powering events contribute to pollution. In addition, mass consumption of natural resources (flowers, paper, etc.) can put undue pressure on ecosystems.
Assam : The day was observed in Udalguri and Tamulpur districts of Assam to raise awareness about mental health with 102 participants, including frontline workers, adolescents, school teachers, and community members. The event aimed to help adolescents understand stress, identify common causes, and learn effective management techniques. Participants, including mothers and adolescents, shared their experiences with stress, often describing it as “tension” from economic challenges, family responsibilities, and academic pressures. Facilitators explained stress as a normal physiological response and highlighted its causes, such as academic pressure, family expectations, peer relationships, and social media.
National Children’s Day Celebration (14th November, 2024)
North Bengal : On November 14th, 2024, Children’s Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm across all education centers in Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling districts. The event highlighted the life and contributions of Jawaharlal Nehru, with children sharing inspiring stories about his vision and love for young minds. The program was graced by the presence of government stakeholders, including GP members, ICDS workers, and ASHA workers, who added to the significance of the celebration.
The festivities extended into a week-long Child Rights Week, featuring vibrant cultural programs at various centers. Children showcased their talents through dance, poetry recitation, music, drama, and sports activities, making each day memorable and joyful.
Jama, Jharkhand : Children’s Day was celebrated in 10 panchayats of Jama Block, Dumka district, under the project “Fight Malnutrition and Provide Training for Anganwadi Workers and Nutrition Professionals”. The event aimed to raise awareness about children’s rights and promote nutrition, health, and education through impactful activities.
Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal : To ensure ‘Participation’, CINI organized a Block Kabaddi Tournament for girls at Itahar Block of Uttar Dinajpur on National Children’s Day. In this one-day tournament, participants participated from 4 different schools, like Itahar, Itahar Girls, Shibrampur, Banbol Girls High School and 2 Gram Panchayats (GPs ) also participated, like Durgapur & Itahar. Over 84 participants are divided into 6 teams who participate against each other. The event is organized and conducted by CINI with the active hand holding support of the Block Administration. Encourage all young women to participate in our traditional sports to ensure physical fitness and combat malnutrition.
South 24 Parganas :
Children’s Day, celebrated every year to emphasize the importance of children’s rights and welfare. On this special day, we celebrated the innocence and purity of children, making them feel cherished in every way. The children engaged in various activities, including drawing portraits of Cha-cha Nehru, as well as reciting, dancing, and singing. Alumni shared the significance of Children’s Day and Nehru’s contributions. Additionally, the Alumni girls discussed important topics such as children’s safety and education. The learning centers also organized fun events, including a marble race, a mathematics race, and a procession to mark the occasion.
Birbhum & Murshidabad: On Children’s Day, CINI celebrated the joyous essence of childhood by organizing a vibrant and dynamic event filled with activities aimed at nurturing creativity, self-expression, and talent in the three blocks Khoyrasole & Md. Bazar, Birbhum and Suti II of Murshidabad district. Themes like “My Dream World” and “What I Want to Be” inspired them to visualize their dreams and future ambitions, fostering a sense of hope and purpose while boosting their creative confidence. The Talent Show was another highlight, offering a stage for children to showcase their singing, dancing, acting, and comedic skills. The entire event was thoughtfully designed to empower young minds, providing them with a supportive environment to explore their abilities and celebrate their uniqueness. Positive feedback from children and parents emphasized the event’s impact, making it a truly memorable celebration of the boundless potential and dreams that every child carries.
World Diabetes Day (14th November, 2024)
Murshidabad:
World Diabetes Day was observed in schools and madrasas through rallies, quizzes, online workshops, poster-making sessions, and diabetes screening camps. Local frontline workers, including ICDS staff, teachers, SI, BDO, Sabhapati, and BMOH, actively participated in these programs. A total of 9,747 students participated, engaging in activities that promoted health awareness, children’s rights, and community well-being.
Uttar Dinajpur : World Diabetes Day was observed on 14th November 2024 at nine Arogya Implementing Blocks in Uttar Dinajpur with the theme of “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps.” The objective of the program was
Various activities were conducted through the day of observation, like diabetes screening, yoga competitions, and poster-making competitions, etc. A total of 1180 children and adolescents participated in this event.
Convention on the Rights of the Child Week Celebration (21st November, 2024)
Kolkata : CINI celebrated CRC week with the children of CCI boys, CCI girls and also with the children of the Government homes. CRC week was celebrated with a thrilling Kabaddi tournament for the youngsters, drawing competition & puppet shows were also organized to raise awareness about child rights, issues of child protection and instilling among them the importance of family & education in one’s life. Life skill training workshops equipped children with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate in daily life, build healthy habits, and develop a more positive outlook. These engaging sessions provided a platform for children to showcase their unique talents by expressing themselves freely through art and craft where children learned to channel their creative thoughts, cultivate critical thinking, and refine their skills, fostering personal growth and development.
Rambagan, Kolkata : On 22nd Nov, CINI Ujjan, in collaboration with Seva Kendra, organized a vibrant CRC Week celebration led by Rambagan adolescents. The event featured an engaging puppet show, followed by a lively puppet-led song for entertainment. A thought-provoking drama on child labour emphasized the importance of prioritizing education over early work. The program concluded with a feedback session, leaving participants inspired and informed about the value of childhood and education.
Uttar Dinajpur : Through different activities, Child Rights Week 2024 was observed in Uttar Dinajpur. A football tournament for girls and boys, a girls kabaddi tournament, a quiz competition, an extempore on government schemes, and a seminar of wall magazine on social evils were displayed. Over 1200 people were reached through the events throughout the week.
Murshidabad : Child Rights Week. Organized by the CINI Arogya World team in collaboration with District and Block Administration, the celebrations featured a range of activities at schools and community levels. The event included a lively rally, quiz competitions, drawing contests, and the submission of a Charter of Demands to local Panchayats and Block offices. A special focus was placed on the children of Azimganj Station, where the celebrations were conducted with enthusiasm.
World AIDS Day (1st December)
South 24 Parganas : Multiple events were organized across Canning II block, engaging over 200 participants, including adolescents, parents, and community stakeholders. Activities included a magic show and folk songs that conveyed important health messages about ART adherence, early detection, and dispelling myths surrounding HIV. Open discussions addressed stigma and discrimination against PLHIV, promoting empathy and encouraging community support. Healthcare workers, and educators actively participated, distributing IEC materials such as pamphlets and posters in local languages.
Murshidabad : In Murshidabad, the day began with a rally from the Berhampore CMOH office to the Court and Station Road, with participation from HIV-positive families, children, government officials, NGOs, and CINI staff. Slogans were read aloud to raise awareness and honor those affected by HIV/AIDS. After the rally, health check-ups were conducted at CINI’s health units with support from SMFG. Families received medical consultations and essential medicines.
Uttar Dinajpur : In Uttar Dinajpur, two events were organized—one at Raiganj Municipality Park in collaboration with Raiganj Municipality and another in Karandighi block with the Panchayat Samiti and Block Development Office. On the first day, a rally from Raiganj Stadium to Bidhanmancha was followed by activities at Municipality Park. Participants, including children, adolescents, and officials, wore badges symbolizing HIV/AIDS awareness. The event featured an inaugural song, a speech by the SDO, a cultural dance performance, and ice-breaking games for children and mothers. The day concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. On the second day, a rally with 100 students was held in Karandighi, starting from the BDO Office to Karandighi High School. A “Toto Tableau”, inaugurated by the BDO and Panchayat Samiti Secretary, traveled through various gram panchayats spreading awareness. Children and adolescents actively participated, emphasizing their right to participation and the importance of a stigma-free community.
World Girl Child Day (11th October)
Assam : CINI Celebrated World Girl Child Day in Kokrajhar, Sonitpur, and Kamrup Metropolitan districts to raise awareness about girls’ rights, education, health, and empowerment. In collaboration with government and community stakeholders, the events engaged diverse groups, including educators, health workers, parents, adolescents, and community members. The programs emphasised gender equity, education, and the need to address issues like menstrual health, early marriage, and teenage pregnancy. Creative activities such as discussions, art competitions, and performances inspired participation and deepened understanding. Participants committed to supporting girls’ aspirations and recognising the shared responsibility of communities and institutions in promoting equality and empowerment. Over 200 people attended, reinforcing the importance of inclusive development for girls.
North Bengal : On the occasion of International Girl Child Day, a drawing competition was organized for children at all learning centers. The theme encouraged participants to express their thoughts and emotions about the life of a girl child through art. The drawings reflected a mix of stark realities and hopeful aspirations. Some children depicted harsh challenges faced by girls. Others chose to portray hopeful scenarios.
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Tel: +91 84204 58926
Email: cini@cinindia.org
Website: cini-india.org
