Strengthening Child Protection Systems: South Bengal Convergence Meeting

Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) collaborated with the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights (WBCPCR) to organise the South Bengal Convergence Meeting on Child Protection on 12 March 2026 at the Institute of Co-operative Management for Agriculture & Rural Development, Kolkata. The meeting brought together representatives from various government bodies, civil society organisations, and community groups from the districts of North 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, and Nadia.

The programme was inaugurated in the presence of distinguished guests including Ms. Tulika Das, Ms. Ananya Chakraborti, Mr. R. Arjun, Mr. Soumitra Roy, Ms. Asha Rosaline Ekka, and Ms. Soma Ghosh. Their presence reflected the shared commitment of institutions and stakeholders towards safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

The convergence meeting created an important platform for dialogue and collaboration. Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, participants examined the existing child protection mechanisms in the state and explored ways to strengthen coordination among different stakeholders. The discussions highlighted the need for stronger institutional partnerships, effective implementation of child protection policies, and greater community engagement in identifying and addressing risks faced by children.

Child club leaders and mothers’ group representatives also participated in the programme, bringing valuable grassroots perspectives into the conversation. Their involvement reinforced the importance of community-based vigilance and participation in building a responsive and inclusive child protection system.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to work collectively towards ensuring safety, dignity, and protection for every child. By fostering dialogue and collaboration across institutions and communities, the convergence meeting marked an important step in strengthening the child protection ecosystem in West Bengal.

“Collective voices, shared responsibility—building a stronger child protection system.”

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