Chandigarh, May 22, 2026:
Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria interacted with children from Government Schools and Child Care Institutions during “Baal Sabha: Mann Ka Samvad 2.0”, organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Chandigarh Administration. The programme provided a meaningful and child-friendly platform for children to openly share their thoughts, aspirations and concerns, while reinforcing collective commitment towards child rights, protection, participation and empowerment.
Ms. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, welcomed the Guests and dignitaries at the event. The Hon’ble Administrator launched “Pathshala Rath: Safe Space for Children in Street Situations and Vulnerable Children Residing in the Community” in the presence of Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration; Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, IPS, Director General of Police; Shri Amandeep Singh Bhatti, Additional Deputy Commissioner; Ms. Radhika Singh, Director Social Welfare; Ms. Suman, Director Health Services; Ms. Shipra Bansal, Chairperson, CCPCR, along with members of the Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile Justice Board and District Child Protection Unit.
The Pathshala Rath initiative aims to connect vulnerable children with education, healthcare, counselling and skill development support in a safe environment. On the occasion, the Hon’ble Administrator also released the booklet “बाल शक्ति: अधिकार से आत्मविश्वास तक” to promote awareness regarding children’s rights, safety and holistic development under the UNCRC and child welfare legislations.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Administrator described children as the nation’s greatest strength and emphasised that education is not only a means of professional success, but also the foundation of character and nation building. He urged children to adopt values of honesty, discipline, perseverance and service towards society. Referring to the life of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, Shri Kataria encouraged children to overcome hardships through determination and hard work. He also advised children to choose their peer groups wisely and remain in the company of positive and responsible individuals who inspire good values and meaningful goals in life.
During “Mann Ka Samvad”, Shri Kataria warmly interacted with the children and shared motivational experiences from his life. Through an inspirational story of a sculptor shaping an ordinary stone into a beautiful idol, he explained that struggles and challenges help shape one’s personality and success. He further encouraged children to respect their teachers, help others, remain connected with good values and work sincerely towards their dreams.
Addressing the gathering, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, encouraged children to remain disciplined and focused towards their goals. He also appreciated the efforts being undertaken by Child Care Institutions for the welfare, rehabilitation and protection of children.
The Hon’ble Administrator also felicitated Master Vansh Tayal of Children Home Snehalaya for Boys, recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025, for his exceptional contribution towards social service and humanity. Appreciating his courage and compassion despite personal hardships, Shri Kataria described him as an inspiration for other children.
The cultural segment of the event powerfully reflected patriotism, talent and social consciousness through inspiring performances by the children of Snehalaya for Girls and Boys. The programme began with the National Song, followed by a graceful Saraswati Vandana. Children also showcased a theatrical presentation on the rescue and rehabilitation of missing children that deeply touched the audience and underscored the importance of Child Helpline 1098 and the child protection mechanisms working tirelessly in UT Chandigarh for the care, safety and rehabilitation of vulnerable children.
The programme concluded with a valedictory address by Smt. Radhika Singh, Director Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Chandigarh Administration, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, stakeholders and children for making the event a meaningful and memorable success.
