On 2nd June 2025, the Naya Disha Project team of Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre conducted a community awareness programme at Boltala Health Centre, Hingalganj. The event was attended by 52 participants, including 10 men and 42 women, along with frontline healthcare workers such as the 1st ANM, 2nd ANM, local children, and other members of the community.

The awareness session aimed to shed light on critical social and health issues affecting the community, along with discussion on violations of human rights, child labour, child marriage, human trafficking, immunization gaps, and broader health concerns. These topics were presented through interactive discussion and participatory methods, ensuring that the messages were clearly communicated and understood by attendees from diverse age groups and backgrounds.

Particular focus was given to the urgent need to prevent early marriage and human trafficking, two deeply rooted challenges in the region. The health workers present contributed valuable insights on immunization practices and the importance of routine healthcare access for women and children.

By encouraging community dialogue and collective reflection, the programme helped reinforce the community’s capacity to identify, report, and respond to child rights violations and health-related challenges. It also emphasized the importance of collaboration between health professionals, local leaders, and residents to create safer and healthier living environments.

The event is another significant step forward in the Naya Disha Project’s mission of empowering vulnerable communities through knowledge, awareness, and local action.

“Together, we raise awareness. Together, we build a safer tomorrow.”

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