Mysuru: To create awareness about Childline-1098, Rural Literacy and Health Programme (RLHP), Mysuru in association with Organisation for the Development of People (ODP) Nodal Office, Mysuru and Nisarga Foundation, HD Kote, has organised a week-long programme called ‘Maitri’ from Nov. 14 to Nov.  20.

Addressing the press meet at Pathrakarthara Bhavan in city yesterday, Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Chairperson H.T. Kamala said that ‘Maitri’ create awareness about Childline -1098 as part of Children’s Day. 

Senior Civil Judge and Secretary of District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) B.P. Devamane will be inaugurating the week-long programme at Maharani’s Pre-University College Auditorium in city on Nov. 14 at 11.45 am. Deputy Director of PU Education Dr. Nagaratna will preside.

Elaborating on the operations, she said that “Childline functioning in Mysuru has received 1,951 calls between Nov. 2018 and Oct. 2019, out of which employees of Childline Foundation have responded to 1,207 calls received. During this period, we have rehabilitated 64 children, provided medical aid to 32 children, rescued 78 from physical abuse and 14 from sexual abuse. Also, 56 children have been re-admitted to schools, counselled 5 children who were into drug abuse and have received 120 calls related to child marriage.”

Childline member Chikkathimma Nayaka, District Co-ordinator Dhanaraj, RLHP Director Saraswati, ODP Assistant Director Rev. Fr. Alex Prashanth and District Co-ordinator Shashi Kumar were present at the press meet. 

Childline India Foundation is a project of Ministry of Women and Child Development. It is a non-government organisation in India that operates a telephone helpline called Childline, for children in distress. 

It was India’s first 24-hour, toll free, phone outreach service for children. A concerned adult or a child can dial the toll free number 1098 for emergency needs of children.