Chandigarh, November 7, 2025: The Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR) inaugurated the third edition of its flagship event, ‘Sashakt Baal Mahotsav - 3.0, 2025’, at the Auditorium of the Chandigarh Judicial Academy, Sector 43, Chandigarh. The month-long celebration aims to promote child rights, creativity, and empowerment through a series of participatory activities and initiatives.

The inaugural programme was graced by Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, as the Chief Guest, and Ms. Anuradha S. Chagti, CSS, Secretary, Social Welfare & Women and Child Development, Chandigarh Administration, as the Special Guest.

Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Ms. Shipra Bansal, Chairperson, CCPCR, shared that this year’s edition is themed around ‘My Day - My Rights’ (aligned with World Children’s Day 2025) and its major highlight is the launch of the Children’s Literature Festival (CLF) - a dedicated platform to nurture reading habits, storytelling, and creative self-expression among children.

In his address, Chief Secretary, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad acknowledged the efforts of the Commission in organising the third edition of Sashakt Baal Mahotsav and highlighted its role in promoting awareness on child rights through participatory and creative activities. He noted that such initiatives provide constructive opportunities for children to express their views and talents while understanding their rights and responsibilities.

The Chief Secretary also took note of the inclusion of a wide range of activities such as declamation, shloka recitation, theatre, poster making, slogan writing, and essay competitions and the introduction of the Children’s Literature Festival, which aims to encourage reading and creative expression among students.

Reaffirming the Administration’s commitment to child welfare, Shri Prasad emphasised the need for a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for every child. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively towards building a Chandigarh where every child can dream, grow, and thrive free from fear, discrimination, or neglect.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. Manisha Sharma, Member, CCPCR. The inaugural function witnessed the presence of senior officers from the Education Department, members of the Commission and Child Welfare Committee (CWC), representatives from DCPU and Child Care Institutions (CCIs), teachers, parents, and media