Punjab Inks Landmark MoU with NalandaWay Foundation to Empower Children in State-Run Homes

In a groundbreaking move to shape the future of children in State-run Children’s Homes and Observation Homes/Special Homes, Dr. Baljit Kaur, Cabinet Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, announced partnership with the Chennai-based NGO NalandaWay Foundation and the department signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This project, launched today at Chhatbir, focuses on arts-based well-being and aims to enhance the rehabilitation of these children. The project focuses on using arts as therapy for children helping them heal and recover from their traumatic experiences. Children Homes house children who are victims of sexual violence, or have lost parents, or children in conflict with law. These children deserve special protection and support from the state.

Dr. Baljit Kaur highlighted that this initiative, the first of its kind in Punjab, aligns with the directives of Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. The project targets children residing in Government Child Care Institutes (CCIs) of Punjab, including those in need of care and protection and those in conflict with law. These children will receive opportunities for 21st-century skills development, employability training, career guidance, mental and physical well-being, and academic support to ensure robust rehabilitation.

Addressing the media, Dr. Kaur emphasized that every child has a dream, but those in State-run CCIs face unique challenges. These children require extra care to shape their futures, as many possess hidden talents that need nurturing. The NalandaWay Foundation, with its experience in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Delhi CCIs, will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall well-being of these children. The NGO will provide essential support in fundamental literacy skills, including reading, writing and offer transitional support for vocational training and career counseling for children aged 6-18 years within the CCIs.

Dr. Baljit Kaur, announced the extension of the arts-based well-being program to six Government Children Homes and five Observation/Special Homes in the first phase. In the next phase, four Government-aided Children’s Homes will be included.

During a special visit to Chhatbir Zoo followed by lunch, Dr. Kaur interacted with the children, each with a heart-rending story and big dreams. One girl in the 8th grade aspires to become a Captain in the Army, while another dreams of becoming a government officer to serve the citizens. Among the boys, one aims to join the Police, and another wishes to become a Singer. Dr. Kaur emphasized her commitment to shaping their futures and ensuring their rehabilitation post 18 years of age.

Dr. Shena Aggarwal, Director, Women and Child Development, expressed gratitude and highlighted the Department’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of the MoU signed with NalandaWay Foundation. The partnership aims to inculcate values and provide skill-based vocational education to children residing at CCIs.

NalandaWay CEO Sriram V assured the Minister of achieving the best possible outcomes through the arts-based initiative, shaping the future of children residing in CCIs in Punjab.

The Cabinet Minister also planted a sapling in the premises of Zoo and appealed to everyone to conserve the environment by planting maximum number of trees.