NEWS
Justice for the Young: YaR Leaders Unite in National Orientation Program
The Don Bosco Young at Risk (YaR) Leaders' Orientation Program 2025, themed "Mission of Don Bosco YaR Ministry: Justice for Young People," convened a dynamic assembly of 27 participants from across India at the SPCI House, Dwarka, New Delhi, from July 29 to 31. The program brought together Salesians, lay collaborators, and field leaders in a collective commitment to champion the rights and welfare of vulnerable youth.
The orientation commenced with a solemn lamp-lighting ceremony and an inaugural reflection by Fr. Joseph Manippadeth, who urged participants to remain resilient amidst challenges. Mr. Om Prakash Vyas emphasized the urgent need to expose flaws in the existing child protection mechanisms and refocus on the justice delivery system for children.
Across three intensive days, ten expert resource persons led sessions on diverse facets of child protection, juvenile justice, and grassroots empowerment. Fr. Patrick Lepcha offered a sobering statistical analysis of juvenile exploitation in India, while Fr. Joe Prabu articulated the YaR Forum priorities and the updated Child Safeguarding Policy. Fr. C.J. George shared insights into the Don Bosco Ashalayam model, focusing on the transition from rescue to resilience and effective resource mobilization.
Fr. Francis Bosco highlighted the vulnerabilities of migrant children and advocated for stronger networking and lobbying strategies. Complementing these were critical sessions by Ms. Nicole Rangel on community-led child rights advocacy, Ms. Chitra Iyer on cyberthreats and data protection, and Adv. Anant Asthana on the legal frameworks governing child protection. Ms. Moumita Roy Choudhury conducted an analytical review of YaR programs, Raj Parit showcased the Homelink DIGI system's technological advancements, and Mr. William Kullu briefed participants on the upcoming YaR campaign and national conference.
A significant highlight was the exposure visits to Don Bosco Ashalayam and Snehalaya, offering participants a firsthand experience of successful YaR interventions in Delhi. The final day saw presentations on child-centric policies and schemes by Mr. Bindiya Sarkar, followed by a compelling address from UNICEF's Ms. Sharmila Ray, who emphasized the importance of empathy and trust in child care, beyond just legal frameworks.
The valedictory session featured the release of a research report on the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on Substance Abuse and Mental Health, followed by the distribution of certificates. The event concluded with a 'Delhi Darshan' cultural outing, deepening fellowship among participants.
Returning home empowered and inspired, the YaR leaders pledged to lead with vision, defend with purpose, and serve with passion—reaffirming their mission to bring justice to the young across India.















