Kohima DPDB meeting: Focus on child labour law compliance

DIMAPUR — The Kohima District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) meeting was held on Monday at the DPDB Hall in the presence of Kevipodi Sophie, MLA and chairman of DPDB Kohima.

Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B Henok Buchem, who chaired the meeting, began by reviewing the minutes of the previous meeting, a DIPR report stated.

Referring to the recent observance of World Day against Child Labour, the DC reminded all officers to strictly comply with child labour laws. He cautioned that children under 14 must not be employed in any occupation, and adolescents aged 14 to 18 should not be engaged in hazardous jobs or subjected to extended work hours.

During the session, president of the Western Angami Public Organisation, Kepelhoutuo Chüsi, addressed the board on the proposal to shift the administrative centre from Sechü-Zubza to Peducha. It was resolved that further action will be taken following a study update from the SDO Sechü-Zubza.

The Board also resolved to conduct a mass social work on June 21, where seven teams from various departments, along with wards, colonies, and the Kohima Municipal Council Chairman, will participate in a town-wide cleanup effort across designated road stretches in Kohima.

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Notable attendees include MLA Kevipodi Sophie, the deputy commissioner, and the superintendent of police, who will participate and oversee the event. Attendance will be strictly monitored.

Reyivolu, CDPO Kohima Urban, delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation highlighting the Social Welfare department’s initiatives under Mission Poshan 2.0.

Key aspects such as Anganwadi services, pre-school education, nutrition delivery, hygiene, and capacity building were covered.

Legal Officer Mego provided an overview of the District Child Protection Unit, detailing its organisational structure, the 1098 child helpline, Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile Justice Board, and the Special Juvenile Police Unit.

Commending the department's efforts, the DC encouraged continued maintenance and improvement of Anganwadi centres to ensure they remain lively, child-friendly spaces.

The meeting also saw presentations from Hopper’s Society, Ranger’s Club, and the E-Sports Association of Nagaland regarding their registration, all of which were approved and recommended for further action.