PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 19: Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar addressed the ‘4th Bal Mela–2025’ held at Sakchi in Jamshedpur today, emphasising that the event—initiated in 2022 under the guidance of MLA Saryu Roy—has evolved into a powerful platform for generating awareness on children’s rights, nutrition, education, and health.
He said the fair, celebrated from National Children’s Day (November 14) to World Children’s Day (November 20), is a festival of childhood, hope, and future possibilities.
Speaking on this year’s World Children’s Day theme, “Parenting with Love – Leading the World,” the Governor underscored the need for a nurturing, safe, and sensitive environment for children.
Expressing concern over issues such as malnutrition, low weight, and anaemia still prevalent in Jharkhand and several other states, he noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is taking decisive steps toward a malnutrition-free India.
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He stressed the need to accelerate such efforts in Jharkhand.
Calling the Bal Mela a “multi-dimensional social initiative,” Governor Gangwar said it brings together parents, teachers, health workers, public representatives, social organisations, corporates, media, and civil society.
He highlighted Jharkhand’s rich tribal culture, particularly its belief that “a child belongs not just to the family, but to the entire community,” which offers a valuable lesson in collective responsibility and community care.
Sharing his experiences from visits to remote areas and schools across the state, the Governor praised the creativity, sporting spirit, musical abilities, and deep ecological sensitivity of Jharkhand’s children.
Reiterating the importance of girls’ education, he said that an educated daughter forms the foundation of an educated family and an empowered society.
“Children are not just the future—they are the priority of today,” he said, urging all stakeholders to work together to ensure that every child in Jharkhand grows up healthy, educated, safe, and happy.