Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday called for stronger regional cooperation and collaborative action among the North Eastern States to address emerging challenges affecting children, including trafficking, online exploitation, substance abuse, child marriage and cross-border vulnerabilities.
Addressing the inaugural session of the North East State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Convention 2026 at Tawang, the Chief Minister described the gathering as a historic milestone, marking the first time that all State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights from the North East have come together on a common platform dedicated exclusively to the protection and promotion of child rights.
Welcoming chairpersons, members and member secretaries of the State Commissions, representatives of national institutions, senior officials, development partners and civil society organisations, Khandu said Tawang, a land synonymous with peace, compassion and harmony, was a fitting venue for deliberations on safeguarding the rights and future of children.
Emphasising that child welfare is the true measure of good governance, Khandu said the success of any government cannot be judged solely by economic growth or infrastructure development but by how effectively it protects its most vulnerable citizens.
He reiterated that every child deserves a safe environment free from violence, exploitation, abuse and discrimination, along with access to education, healthcare, nutrition and equal opportunities.
Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment towards child welfare, Khandu outlined a series of initiatives aimed at empowering children, particularly the girl child.
He informed that under the Dulari Kanya Scheme, more than 15,500 girls have benefited from financial assistance for higher education, with the State investing over Rs 38 crore.
He further noted that over 134 awareness programmes have been conducted under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative across the State.
