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Stakeholders Pledge Support to End Child Marriage at District Workshop in Chhotaudepur

3 February 2026

News reported by: BIS Correspondent Mumbai

A district-level workshop on the theme “Stop Child Marriage” was held on January 21, 2026, at Lok Seva Kendra, Don Bosco, Chhotaudepur, bringing together key stakeholders involved in marriage-related services. The programme was organized by DISHA Don Bosco in collaboration with the Samaj Suraksha Vibhag, Chhotaudepur, as part of a concerted effort to prevent child marriage at the grassroots level.

The workshop drew more than 40 participants, including representatives from faraskhana services, pandal teams, cooks, jewellers, shopkeepers, bands, DJs, and other service providers whose roles are closely linked to marriage ceremonies. The initiative was conducted under the “Child Marriage Free India – 100 Days Campaign”, led nationally by Just Rights for Children. In Chhotaudepur District, DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, is spearheading the campaign to build awareness and foster collective responsibility to end the practice.

The programme was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Mr Jayeshkumar D. Solanki, Judge of the Chhotaudepur District Legal Services Authority; the Social Protection Officer and District Child Protection Officer; Mr Shailesh Parmar, Programme Officer of DRISTI, Kapadwanj; and Br Melvyn Carvalho, SDB, Director of DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant.

Proceedings began with a prayer service, followed by the reading of the Preamble of the Constitution of India, underscoring citizens’ constitutional duties. Br Melvyn Carvalho welcomed the gathering and outlined the workshop's purpose. Mr Hasmukh Christian, Programme Officer, then presented an overview of DISHA Don Bosco’s social interventions in the district, highlighting sustained initiatives to prevent child marriage and safeguard children’s rights.

As the chief guest, Mr Jayeshkumar Solanki detailed the legal implications and consequences of child marriage, emphasizing the responsibilities of citizens and service providers under the law. The District Child Protection Officer explained government schemes and support systems for minors and stressed the importance of reporting child marriage, sharing key helpline numbers—108, 181, 1098, and 112.

Mr Shailesh Parmar, the main resource person, delivered an in-depth presentation on the social, physical, psychological, and legal impacts of child marriage, supported by a video documentary and group discussions that encouraged active participation.

The workshop concluded with a collective pledge by participants to refuse services for child marriages and report suspected cases, reaffirming their commitment to making Chhotaudepur District free from child marriage.

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