Child Development
Program on Child Development: Front the very beginning of the organization, it has focused overall development if children of the area. It emphasizes on proper nutrition growth and most of all health and education of the children. Last year also it under took some programs for development of the children.
Rajib Gandhi National Creche Scheme-
The organization operates two crèche centers located in Old 16 Mile village, dedicated to nurturing the development of young children. Each center provides a comprehensive program that includes nutritious meals, elementary education, and basic health care tips, ensuring a holistic approach to child welfare. The importance of proper nutrition is emphasized, as the centers serve balanced meals daily, promoting healthy growth and development.
To ensure individualized attention, each center employs two dedicated crèche mothers who are responsible for the care of up to 25 children. These caregivers are not only trained in child development but also play a vital role in creating a safe and stimulating environment for the children. They engage the children in educational activities that foster learning and social interaction, laying a solid foundation for their future education.
In addition to nutrition and education, personal sanitation and hygiene are prioritized at the crèche centers. Regular handwashing practices, clean facilities, and health education are instilled in the children, promoting lifelong habits that contribute to their overall well-being. The organization is committed to enhancing the quality of early childhood care, ensuring that children in Old 16 Mile village receive the support they need to thrive.
Child Protection Week-
Like every year, the organization observed Child Protection Week with great enthusiasm and purpose. This year’s program specifically targeted adolescent girls aged 11 to 18, engaging them in a variety of events from November 14 to 20, 2023. The central theme focused on stopping early marriage and trafficking, aiming to raise awareness about these critical issues. A vibrant roadshow was organized in the Kaliachak-III block, featuring colorful displays and lively performances to attract community attention.
Throughout the week, various competitions were held to encourage participation and creativity among the girls, allowing them to express their views on the theme. Additionally, local folk singers and the Gambhira troupe performed energetic acts, celebrating the spirit of the event while reinforcing the important message. These activities were designed not only to entertain but also to convey a strong message to society about the urgent need to protect girls from the dangers of early marriage, human trafficking, and abuse.
SAG-KP Program-
The program “Skills for Adolescent Girls Kanyashree Prakalpa,” previously known as the “Sabla – Kanyashree Convergence Program,” is facilitated by the 16 Mile Rural Development Society in various blocks of Malda district, including Kaliachak-II, Kaliachak-III, Manichak, and English Bazar (rural). This initiative focuses on empowering Kishori girls aged 11 to 18, aiming to strengthen their resilience against social evils.
The program unites the girls in groups, providing awareness on social, physical, and mental health issues in engaging and entertaining ways. It successfully reintegrates those who have dropped out of school back into the educational mainstream. Various informal life skills training sessions are conducted, covering essential topics such as health, hygiene, and personal sanitation, which are vital for better reproductive health.
Additionally, regular health check-ups are organized during Kishori Diwas, ensuring the well-being of the participants. To date, over sixteen adolescent girls have benefited from this program, helping them build a brighter and healthier future.
Village people has a common reluctance to face govt offices and officers even at Panchayat office, Bank, Post office etc. They are unaware of the services provided for them and how to avail those services. The organization chose new generation especially girls and tried to break the ice of the girls deep rooted to their brain. For this the organization staffs took 260 girls and made them peer leaders amongst their circle. After that they took the girls to for an exposure to local post office and “Duare Sarkar” camp. There the girls came to know of the services offred to public. They interacted with the officers and representives witnessed people jostled each other and availing the services. Some of them were asked to work there and help people in their job. It mode the girls confident.
The program focuses on recognizing and promoting the health of adolescent girls. On scheduled dates, girls, known as Adolescent Girls (SAG), visit local health sub-centers for vital health check-ups. During these visits, they undergo essential assessments, including anemia tests and weight checks, to monitor their overall well-being.
The program also provides important consultations on reproductive health and other relevant topics, ensuring that the girls are informed about their health needs. In addition to these services, necessary medications are supplied to address any identified health issues. By empowering these young girls with knowledge and support, the program fosters a foundation for their future health and well-being.
LGG stands for Learning Games for Girls, a program designed to engage girls in group activities that promote learning through play. During these sessions, project staff or instructors facilitate various games that convey important information on social issues. The interactive nature of the games encourages the girls to communicate openly and take the topics seriously. As a result, they become empowered and more aware of the challenges they face, preparing them to challenge social taboos, misconceptions, and harmful rituals within their communities. This initiative fosters critical thinking and equips girls with the confidence to advocate for change.
Social Investing Report (SIR)-
The government has established a procedure for locating missing children, which involves a formal inquiry conducted by the District Social Welfare Officer. In this case, the District Social Welfare Department of Malda has tasked the organization with investigating the residences of any found missing children and gathering relevant information about them and their families. The organization prepares a detailed social investigation report in the prescribed format and submits it to the District Social Welfare Officer in Malda. So far, the organization has successfully compiled 79 such reports, contributing to efforts aimed at reuniting missing children with their families and ensuring their safety.