Caritas India Reaffirms Child Rights Commitment in Chhattisgarh

Reaffirming its mission to ensure every child enjoys a safe, healthy, and dignified childhood, Caritas India’s Executive Director, Rev. Fr. Jesudass, undertook a field visit to Chhattisgarh on 7 January 2026 to review the progress and impact of the Khushhal Bachpan project. The visit underscored Caritas India’s focus on strengthening community-led action and building people’s ownership for child well-being at the grassroots level.

The day began with a warm reception in Village Alesur, where children welcomed the Executive Director with smiles and flowers. During interactive sessions, children involved in Bal Chaupal activities confidently shared their experiences and learning on child rights, education, health, and personal safety. Their stories reflected the project’s success in nurturing self-expression and leadership among young participants. Fr. Jesudass appreciated their articulation, observing that “When children are given a safe space and proper guidance, they naturally become agents of positive change.” The evident behavioural transformation among children demonstrated the effectiveness of Caritas India’s child-centric approach under Khushhal Bachpan.

A joint community meeting followed at the Gram Panchayat Bhawan, bringing together members of the Community Action Group (CAG), School Management Committee (SMC), parents of Open School students, and families supported through Income Generation Activities (IGA). The discussion focused on changes in educational access, parental engagement, and community responsibility since the project’s inception. CAG and SMC representatives highlighted their collaborative monitoring of school attendance, re-enrolment of dropouts, and advocacy against child labour. Commending their participation—especially women-led initiatives—Fr. Jesudass reiterated that empowered local institutions are essential for sustaining progress in child well-being.

In Village Chhadiyan, the focus shifted to the re-enrolment and retention of out-of-school children. Both SMC and CAG members shared real-life examples where timely community action helped prevent school dropouts. The Executive Director also visited families cultivating nutrition gardens, where parents explained how their children contribute to gardening activities such as watering, weeding, and harvesting. Some households even share surplus vegetables with neighbours, promoting both nutritional security and community solidarity.

Field engagements also highlighted the role of livelihood support in improving family stability. Two IGA-supported families showcased improved income generation and responsible financial practices. Reviewing their income registers, Fr. Jesudass appreciated how families deposit ₹500 monthly into children’s bank accounts—a concrete step toward long-term child security and financial discipline.

At Kevradih village, members of the Village Level Child Protection Committee (VLCPC) shared their efforts to eliminate child labour and maintain regular school attendance. The community welcomed the Caritas India team with traditional aarti and sindoor, symbolizing trust and respect. Emphasizing holistic development, Fr. Jesudass stated that education, nutrition, and recreation are integral pillars of a healthy childhood.

The field visit concluded at the Sirri Field Office with an interactive meeting involving youth groups, Open School students, and field staff. Fr. Jesudass motivated young participants to continue their education and build skills for self-reliance. In the final review meeting, he commended the Raipur field team’s dedication and affirmed that true transformation begins when communities become the custodians of children’s rights.

The visit reaffirmed that the Khushhal Bachpan project is not just improving child well-being but transforming mindsets—placing children at the heart of development and empowering communities to protect and nurture their future.