“We pledge to seek out every missing child, to guide them back to the path of learning and enlightenment, ensuring that no child would ever again be lost to the darkness of ignorance,” declared members of the Child Parliament under the Promoting Safe Childhood project ‘Surokhit Shaishav’ by Caritas India.

Under the stewardship of the indomitable Amarnath, elected as Chairman of the Children’s Parliament, young hearts and minds united in a chorus of determination, declaring war on the shadows that threatened their innocence. With a steadfast commitment to eradicating child trafficking, child marriage, exploitation, and labor, these young champions emerged as beacons of hope in a world often shrouded in darkness.

With each resolution passed and each decision made, the Children’s Parliament carved out a new destiny for the children of Nautanwa in Maharajgan of Uttar Pradesh—a destiny defined by hope, dignity, and boundless possibility.

Caritas India’s innovative approach through ‘Surokhit Shaishav’ institutionalized Child Parliaments across its project locations, empowering children to become active participants and advocates for their rights. These Child Parliaments are inclusive and democratic bodies that operate by children, for children. The project has successfully established 194 youth organizations, children’s parliaments, and children’s clubs in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal.

At the Community Center in Nautanwa Bairiya Bazaar, the young parliamentarians gathered to speak with passion and determination. Their voices echoed with conviction, as they articulated their visions for a brighter future. Led by Amarnath, they recognized education as the cornerstone of their mission, seeing it as the key to unlocking a future filled with promise and opportunity.

In a display of unity and purpose, the Children’s Parliament made a pact that would be remembered for years to come. They pledged with unwavering resolve to seek out every missing child, guiding them back to the path of learning and enlightenment, ensuring that no child would ever again be lost to the darkness of ignorance.

Caritas India’s ‘Surokhit Shaishav’ project has been instrumental in transforming the lives of countless children. The project is working towards improving the implementation of child centric Government policies and projects, along with reduced vulnerabilities of children and young adults to all forms of violence across all three intervention States. By institutionalizing Child Parliaments, the project has provided a platform for children to express their concerns, make decisions, and actively participate in their development. This approach has not only empowered children but also fostered a sense of responsibility and leadership among them.

In the project areas of Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal, these Child Parliaments have become a vital part of the community. Children who once felt voiceless now have a platform to speak out against injustices and advocate for their rights. The Child Parliaments at the school level have greatly influenced the decision-making regarding hygiene practice, cleanliness, celebration of Child Rights Week, awareness on menstrual hygiene, managing the mid-day meal program etc. The project has helped in building a community where children are respected, their opinions valued, and their rights protected.

The Children’s Parliament stood as a testament to the power of youth and collective action. In Nautanwa, a new era had dawned—one where the voices of the young were heard loud and clear, and every child had the opportunity to thrive. Their dreams, once distant and uncertain, now seemed within reach, illuminated by their determination and the support of their community.

Caritas India’s ‘Surokhit Shaishav’ project has shown that when children are given the platform and opportunity to lead, they can achieve remarkable things. The institutionalization of Child Parliaments has not only empowered the children but has also brought about positive changes in the community. It has paved the way for a future where every child is valued, educated, and empowered to reach their full potential.