Kerala launches ‘Suraksha Mithram’ to protect children from abuse
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Alappuzha: The Kerala Government on Saturday unveiled a comprehensive initiative named ‘Suraksha Mithram’ aimed at detecting and preventing abuse and violence against children both at home and within society.
State Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced that the Department of Public Education, in collaboration with multiple state departments, is spearheading this scientifically designed training programme. “This will be one of the most essential training programmes of our time,” Sivankutty said.
The move follows a disturbing case at Hidayathul Islam L.P. School in Nooranad, Alappuzha, where a fourth-grade girl was allegedly abused by her stepmother and father. The abuse came to light after the girl detailed her ordeal in a notebook, which was discovered by her teacher.
Officials stressed that the government will not tolerate violence against children and assured full protection and support for victims.
Under ‘Suraksha Mithram,’ every school will install a confidential ‘Help Box’ where students can report complaints or distressing experiences. The box will be checked weekly by the Headmaster or Headmistress, with relevant information forwarded to the Education Department for prompt action.
Teachers will receive specialised training to identify behavioural and academic changes that may indicate distress among students. The programme will also encourage activities such as diary writing and zero-hour discussions to foster open communication.
Implementation will be coordinated with the Departments of Women and Child Development, Social Justice, Local Self-Government, Health, and Police. The initiative guarantees access to medical care, counselling, and rehabilitation for affected children.
Existing child protection mechanisms, including the Child Welfare Committee and the helpline 1098, will be strengthened. Additionally, parenting clinics will be activated at the block level to offer counselling to parents.
Teachers will be trained as primary counsellors, with a focus on mental health, adolescent issues, and drug abuse prevention. The Health Department’s Centre for Child Development will manage the training, which will be rolled out in three phases: starting with teachers of Classes 8 to 12, followed by primary and upper primary educators.
A state-level master training programme will equip 200 teachers through a three-day residential course, including sessions on stress management and mindfulness.
Officials also announced that the Director of Public Education will soon issue a Standard Operating Procedure to ensure child safety.
The government has appealed for cooperation from all stakeholders to make schools safe and secure spaces for children.
With IANS inputs
