TAWANG : National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Member Priyank Kanoongo on Friday interacted with heads of departments in Tawang district and reviewed the implementation of welfare programmes, with a special focus on human rights and child protection.
The interaction, held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, formed part of Kanoongo’s official visit to the district.
Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo welcomed the NHRC member and presented an overview of the district, highlighting its geographical profile, demographic characteristics, administrative structure and ongoing developmental initiatives. Departments also made presentations on the implementation of key government welfare schemes and public service delivery.
During the meeting, Kanoongo held detailed discussions with departmental heads on the implementation of welfare programmes, particularly those relating to child rights and human rights. He reviewed the functioning of the Child Helpline, implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the functioning of the Child Welfare Committee and the status of various child welfare schemes in the district.
He emphasised the need for coordinated efforts among departments to ensure that welfare benefits reach intended beneficiaries and called for greater sensitivity and responsiveness while dealing with vulnerable sections of society, especially children.
Highlighting the importance of language in early childhood development, Kanoongo advocated mother tongue-based education in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), stating that learning in one’s native language strengthens cognitive development, preserves cultural identity and lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
The interaction also provided an opportunity for departmental heads to share best practices, discuss local challenges and exchange suggestions for strengthening institutional mechanisms for safeguarding human rights and promoting child-friendly governance.
Kanoongo is also scheduled to attend the two-day Regional Convention on Child Rights being organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR) in Tawang. The convention has brought together chairpersons and members of State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights from across the Northeast to deliberate on strengthening child rights through regional cooperation and collaborative action.
Officials said the visit reaffirmed the commitment of the NHRC and the district administration to strengthening child protection systems, ensuring effective implementation of welfare programmes and upholding the principles of justice, equality, dignity and human rights.
