Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) April 8:‘A legal awareness programme focusing on rights, child protection laws and welfare schemes for vulnerable groups was conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with participation from frontline workers and social welfare staff.
The programme was organised by the A&N State Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority, in association with PRAYAS JAC and under Mission Shakti of the Directorate of Social Welfare. The event was held at the auditorium of Tagore Government College of Education (TGCE).
Anganwadi workers and staff members of the Directorate of Social Welfare attended the session, which aimed to strengthen awareness of legal provisions and support mechanisms available to vulnerable sections of society.
Registrar of Calcutta High Court, Circuit Bench at Port Blair and Member Secretary of the A&N State Legal Services Authority, Rashid Alam, addressed the gathering on the role of Legal Services Authorities. He outlined the services extended to marginalised groups and highlighted welfare schemes introduced by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Additional District Judge, Port Blair and Chairman (In-charge) of the District Legal Services Authority, Neyaz Alam, spoke on provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, with emphasis on safeguarding children and available legal remedies.
Judge of the Family Court, Port Blair, Diptendra Nath Mitra, elaborated on key legal provisions under the POCSO Act, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. The session focused on building awareness among participants about legal safeguards and responsibilities in addressing such issues.
The programme was attended by representatives of PRAYAS JAC, including Regional Head Mariya Sheila and Advisor K. Vijay Kumar, along with staff from the District Legal Services Authority and PRAYAS JAC.
Officials stated that the initiative aimed to equip grassroots workers with knowledge of legal rights and institutional support systems, enabling them to better assist communities and vulnerable individuals.
The session forms part of ongoing efforts under Mission Shakti to promote awareness on legal rights, protection laws and welfare schemes through coordinated outreach programmes.
