Bala Sabha at Medikonda Strengthens Child Rights Awareness and Community Engagement

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A ‘Bala Sabha’ (Children’s Assembly) held on August 2 at Zilla Parishad High School in Medikonda village, Telangana, brought children’s rights and welfare issues to the forefront. Organized under the Ministry of Panchayati Raj’s “Child-Friendly Gram Panchayat” initiative, part of the Government of India’s Model Gram Panchayat Cluster Project, the event aimed to empower young voices while promoting holistic child development.

The program began with the national anthem, setting a formal tone before transitioning into a lively display of student-led activities. Children assumed leadership roles as presidents, vice presidents, anchors, and committee members, steering the event with confidence and responsibility. Through skits, speeches, and open discussions, students addressed critical issues such as child labor, child marriage, and substance abuse. These presentations not only highlighted the challenges faced by children in rural communities but also reflected the students’ awareness and commitment to change.

To encourage creativity and constructive thinking, drawing and poster competitions were organized on themes like “Model Village” and “Model School.” Winners were recognized for their artistic expression and vision for community improvement. The event also honored students who achieved academic excellence and maintained consistent attendance, underscoring the importance of education and discipline.

Health professionals, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA), and Anganwadi workers participated, sharing information about ongoing government and community initiatives to improve children’s health, safety, and education. Their involvement ensured that children and parents alike were made aware of available resources and support systems.

Importantly, the Bala Sabha served as a safe forum for students to voice concerns about issues within their village. These candid exchanges allowed community members and local authorities to better understand the needs and priorities of younger residents, potentially guiding future development plans.

The “Child-Friendly Gram Panchayat” concept seeks to create villages where children’s rights are protected, their voices are heard, and their needs are met through participatory governance. The Medikonda event exemplified how grassroots initiatives can foster civic responsibility, leadership, and awareness among young citizens.

By placing children at the center of the conversation and equipping them with the platform to speak out, the Bala Sabha in Medikonda demonstrated a practical step toward building communities where the welfare of children is an integral part of local governance and development.