Udaipur, May 5: In a significant initiative aimed at strengthening child protection in Rajasthan, a meeting for the Kalika Patrolling Unit was held at the District Collector’s office in Udaipur. This event was organized under the “Policing for Care of Children” program by the Udaipur Range Police in collaboration with UNICEF Rajasthan. The meeting was graced by the presence of UNICEF India Country Head Cynthia McCaffrey and District Superintendent of Police Dr. Amrita Duhan, focusing on sharing experiences and encouraging teams working in the field of child safety.
Cynthia McCaffrey praised the effective efforts of the Kalika Patrolling Unit, stating, “You are here, so we are all safe.” She emphasized the team’s responsibility to ensure public safety in schools, colleges, and crowded places, commending their role in conducting self-defense training programs in schools. “Your efforts have boosted children’s confidence, allowing them to participate fearlessly in education and other areas,” she added, acknowledging the team’s trustworthy and commendable role in the community.
Dr. Amrita Duhan highlighted that child protection is a moral responsibility for everyone, requiring active participation from the community, police administration, and social organizations. She commended the Kalika Patrolling Team for their significant role in ensuring children’s safety with full sensitivity. Duhan also noted Udaipur’s status as a tourist destination, stressing the importance of providing a safe and positive environment for both locals and visitors.
She urged UNICEF to provide new technological resources to enhance the team’s operations. K.L. Narasimha Rao, State Head of UNICEF Rajasthan, remarked that this special police unit is doing commendable work in ensuring the safety of the public, especially children, and serves as an exemplary model of community policing. Child protection expert Dr. Sanjay Kumar Nirala discussed the structure and functioning of the Kalika Patrolling Unit in Rajasthan, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention and a sensitive approach to prevent serious issues.
The meeting also featured discussions on strategies to make the child protection mechanism more effective, with special guest Michael Sar highlighting community participation as a vital means of ensuring child safety on an international level. Representatives from the Kalika Patrolling Team and Tourist Patrolling Team shared their experiences during the program.
Before the meeting, dignitaries interacted with students at the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Badgaon, where they were informed about various safety and awareness programs. The students engaged with the officials, asking intriguing questions and sharing insights from self-defense training. Cynthia was moved by the children’s curiosity and intelligence, while one student presented her a sketch, leaving the guests impressed and appreciative.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Principal Geeta Sharma, followed by Vice-Principal Neha Kudal, who coordinated the event and highlighted the school’s achievements. Students also presented handmade gifts to Cynthia as a token of appreciation.