National Girl Child Day celebrated with enthusiasm at Doda

DODA: Under the flagship Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, the Department of Social Welfare, through Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, Doda, celebrated National Girl Child Day with zeal and fervor. The event was attended by District Program Officer of ICDS Paramjeet Singh; District Social Welfare Officer Tariq Qazi and Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee, Sharista Devi. 

A series of engaging activities such as dance performances, debates, painting competitions, and poetry recitations were organized, highlighting the talents of young girls in the district. As part of the celebration, baby kits were distributed among mothers of newborn girls to encourage their well-being under the BBBP initiative. The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where achievers in education and sports were honored with certificates and medals.

Addressing the gathering, the District Social Welfare Officer highlighted the success of BBBP over the past decade, including a 4% increase in female enrolment in secondary schools and the enhancement of girls' sanitation infrastructure. The introduction of Taekwondo training under the program has also contributed significantly to girls' empowerment in the district.

The Project Officer ICDS also emphasized the evolving status of women and the importance of girl child welfare, citing efforts such as the development of 'Poshan Vatikas' (nutrition gardens) in Anganwadi centers to address nutritional needs. Doda's sex ratio of 953 was commended as a notable achievement compared to other districts. The program successfully reinforced the district's commitment to the welfare and empowerment of girls, concluding with a renewed pledge to work for their upliftment and bright future.