The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, emphasized the need for increased regional cooperation among Northeast states to address emerging threats to children, including human trafficking, online exploitation, substance abuse, child marriage, and cross-border challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session of the two-day 'Northeast States Child Rights Protection Commission' (NE-SCPCR) conference 2026, Khandu described the event as historic, noting that it marks the first time all eight states of the Northeast have gathered on a common platform to discuss child rights.
Khandu stated that the welfare of children is a true measure of good governance. He asserted that a government's success should not only be evaluated based on economic growth or infrastructure development but also on how effectively it protects its most vulnerable citizens. He highlighted Arunachal Pradesh's welfare initiatives, mentioning that over ₹38 crores have been invested in the 'Dulari Kanya' scheme, which has provided financial assistance for higher education to more than 15,500 girls.
Additionally, he revealed that for the year 2026-27, ₹3.3 crores have been allocated under the 'Girls Health and Hygiene' scheme to support over 25,000 beneficiaries. Khandu pointed out that issues like trafficking and digital exploitation are not confined to a single state. He urged collaboration among civil society, families, educational institutions, and law enforcement agencies to tackle these challenges effectively.
He called for the discussions held during the conference to translate into tangible outcomes for the benefit of children in the region.
-
Circus to concert: 6 big events happening in Hyderabad on Aug 1, 2
-
MP: Namaz offered at site near Bhojshala complex in Dhar
-
Man dies in parents’ arms after ambulance runs out of oxygen
-
139 Indian nationals released from Russian Army: MEA
-
SC orders status quo on demolition of 25 houses in MP’s Khandwa
