People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), dedicated to promoting and protecting children's rights and wellbeing, has announced child artists Suhana Kar, 13, and Tapas Kumar Sarangi, 12, as its newest Goodwill Ambassadors for promotion of child rights and wellbeing. This announcement was made during the 35th Foundation Day celebration of PECUC at Gita Gobinda Sadan, Bhubaneswar.

Since 2010, PECUC has been appointing Goodwill Ambassadors to campaign for promoting children's rights and a child-friendly environment. These ambassadors work for protection, participation, development and survival of children and also on various campaigns, including education, environmental conservation, ending child marriage and child labour, healthy children, etc., and addressing issues like violence, bullying, and online safety.

The ceremony started remarks by Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of PECUC, who emphasized the importance of child rights & wellbeing and the role of Goodwill Ambassadors. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairman of PECUC, made the public announcement, and Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC, introduced the new ambassadors. Ms. Ratna Dash, Treasurer of PECUC, delivered the vote of thanks.

Eminent cine actress Bhoomika Dash and sportsperson Anshika Routray, former Goodwill Ambassadors of PECUC, presented SASHES  to the new ambassadors.

Other notable attendees included Olympian Anuradha Biswal, Director of PECUC and  Banchhanidhi Pattnaik, Renowned Artist.

Suhana Kar expressed her excitement about her new role, stating, "It’s a huge honor to join as PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador, and I am looking forward to campaigning for the rights and wellbeing of children, to end child labor, promote education for all, health and nutrition for all children and end child marriage." Tapas Kumar Sarangi added, "As a Goodwill Ambassador of PECUC, I am grateful for this opportunity to work for children and their wellbeing including rights of children to play, participation in decision making regarding the issues pertaining to them and their ecological rights."

Mr. Subhajit Panda, anchored the programme. Mr. J.S. Mohanty, Ms. Puja Panda, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty, and Ms. Alpana Dash of PECUC facilitated the program.

Note:

PECUC continues to focus primarily on child rights and wellbeing. While working at the community level PECUC has learnt that the realisation of child rights and the well-being of children cannot be thought of in isolation and that their parents, grandparents, families and communities need to be protected and strengthened. Hence, PECUC has prioritized to focus on Child Rights, women empowerment, health, hygiene & Sanitation, Emergency Management & Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation, Livelihood, Governance & Democracy, youth empowerment, Person with Disability & Rights of the Older Persons.

Bhubaneswar 22-Dec-2019: “Active participation of more and more women in the political process can bring desirable change in social and economic situation” emphasized by speaker while speaking in an interface of elected people’s representative. The interface was held today at Red Cross Bhawan Conference Hall, being organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) and ALIBHA Federation of elected women panchayat representative in collaboration with The Hunger Project. The Meeting was attended by 124 participants including Elected Women Panchayat functionaries of Balianta and Bolgarh block of Khordha district.  Welcome address was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC and she also shared the purpose of this workshop. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC presided over this interface meeting.

Inaugurating this interface meeting Dr. Arabinda Dhali, MLA, Jayadev, said that women panchayat functionaries should work as a change agent of the society. They are better manager of fund and they should work independently and should be aware about their responsibility. A society will develop and prosper if the women will come to the forefront and take the lead. He also encouraged the Women panchayat functionaries for their anti liquor campaign. Sj. Ananta Narayan Jena, MLA, Bhubaneswar said that the women EWRs should work for the development of their ward and also they should reach to people and work for them relentlessly. Women are not weak rather they are quite capable like their male counterpart. The ALIBHA Federation members welcomed the guest with a welcome song. Rasmita Patra, President, ALIBHA Federation, Balianta and Babita Sahu, President, Alibha Federation, Bolagarh, read memorandum containing issues like appointment of PEO in every panchayat, compulsory registration of birth and marriage in every panchayat, beneficiaries should get their money in time, abolition of two children rule for panchayat election, construction of park in every panchayat, water and light facilities for every panchayat, ambulance facility in all health centres etc. They presented this memorandum to both the MLAs. The MLA on the other hand promised to take up the issues in the legislative Assembly.  Among other Prof. Prabir Kumar Pattnaik, SOA National Institute of Law spoke about the role and responsibilities of EWRs and Ms. Ratna Dash, Treasurer PECUC also spoke on this occasion. Vote of thank was given by Upama Mohanty, Block Coordinator of PECUC. Mr. Prashant Kumar Mohanty and Mr. Bamadev Jena facilitated the programme.       

Bhubaneswar 22/11: The 34th Sisumela, organized by People's Cultural Center (PECUC), one of the leading voluntary organizations of Odisha, at Ekamra Haat Amphitheater concluded on 20^th Nov, 2023. Many dignitaries and eminent personalities of the state attended this seven days event and encouraged the children. On its valedictory function, many talented children and eminent personalities were honored. The seven-day program was held with the support of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department of the Government of Odisha and many institutions.

On this occasion prestigious annual awards of PECUC were given for outstanding performance in various fields. Senior Journalist Sj. Siba Mohanty was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2023” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, as Retd. Teacher Surendra Kumar Pattnayak received “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2023” for his contribution in the field of teaching,  Sj Subha Narayan Satpathy  was honoured with “Sisusathi Award 2023” for outstanding contribution for children’s literature,  SJ Prasanna Kumar Mishra received “Dr. Prafulla Chandra Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2023” for his social work in the field of Child Rights & Women Sarpanch Ms. Ramalata Nayak was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2023” for her leadership to protect children’s right.  

Many talented children also received awards on this occasion.  “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2023” to Child Artist Tapas Kumar Sarangi for acting, “Dr. Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2023”  to Ms. Shifa Prizm  for all round achievement , “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2023” to Ms.Sabitri Nayak for bravery and courageous activity,  “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2023” to Ms. Rishita Samantaray for social work,” Adaramani Baral Memorial Award 2023” to Sasmita Bhoi for girl leadership, “Sushama Mohapatra Memorial Award 2023” to Priyankaree Muduli for outstanding achievement in the field of sports,   Jayana Das was chosen for “Baby of the Year award 2023”.

Vicky Dance Group, UDRA, Kokila Dance Group, Capital High School Hostel Group, Littlestar, Purunajhinti Adolescent Group, Mahakalaswar group, Chetna, Lakshya Dance Group, Dasavatar Natya shala, Divya Jyoti Smriti Peetha, Kelasahi’s Sunrise Ecosavers  youth Network, Pearly International School , DM School and Prativa Adolescent Group of Barijang, Nrutyashree and Nrutya Prativa Dance Group, Kargil's Prakruti Adolescent Group, presented various cultural programmes in the evening.

Bhubaneswar 20/11: A healthy society can be built if the children are well. Efforts should be made at both the family and school levels to raise children ethically. A favorable environment should be created to nurture the young mind was said by eminent speakers attending the valedictory function of 34^th PECUC Sisumela. The 34th Children's Festival ‘PECUC Sisumela’ culminated in a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression of joy and creativity.  It added yet another glorious chapter to the history of PECUC Sisumela imprinting smiles and inspiration on the hearts of its audience.  

Addressing the closing ceremony Chief Guest Justice Dr. D P Choudhury , Honourable Former Judge Odisha High Court said  we all should work together for the development of children. Subodh Chandra Acharya, Joint Director cum Joint Secretary  Odia Language, Literature and Culture Dept., Govt. of Odisha, advised the children to remain grateful to their parents and to take care of them in the old age and the parents also should consider their child’s interest. Sasmita Nanda and Ruby Biswal Members OSCPCR advised the children to nurture and develop their inner talent along with the education. Dr. N. Tirumal Nayak, IAS, Labour Commissioner Odisha,  advised the children to build good character and children should work hard to build a better future for them.  Niranjan Sahoo, IAS, (Retd.) encouraged the children and advised them to build their lives according to their own wishes.  Among others Manna Biswas, Child Protection Specialist of UNICEF also spoke on the occasion.

This programme was presided over by President, PECUC Sisumela Committee and Renowned Journalist Mr. Prodosh Kumar Pattnaik and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the introductory note. Among others Dr. Minakshi Panda, chairman PECUC, Bandita Das, Joint Secretary, PECUC and Sharmila Sahoo, Member, PECUC  spoke on the occasion. Vote of Thanks was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC.

On this occasion children and adults personalities were honoured with many prestigious annual awards for outstanding performance in different fields. Senior Journalist Sj. Siba Mohanty  was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2023” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, where as “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2023” to Retd. Teacher Surendra Kumar Pattnayak for his contribution in the field of teaching,  “Sisusathi Award 2023” to Sj Subha Narayan Satpathy for outstanding contribution for children,  “Prafulla Chandra Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2023” to SJ Prasanna Kumar Mishra for his social work, Women PRI Ms. Ramalata Nayak was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2023” for his outstanding work as a people’s representative,  “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2023” to Child Artist Tapas Kumar Sarangi for acting, “Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2023”  to Shifa Prizm  for all round achievement , “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2023” to Sabitri Nayak for bravery and courageous activity,  “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2023” to a child Rishita Samantaray for social work,” Adaramani Baral Memorial Award 2023” to Sasmita Bhoi for girl leadership, “Sushama Mohapatra Memorial Award 2023” to Priyankaree Muduli for outstanding achievement in the field of sports,   Jayana Das was chosen for “Baby of the Year award 2023”. Winners of the Fancy Dress Competition also received their prize.

Child artists of Cultural groups like Vickey, UDRA,  Kokila, Capital High School, Hostel Troupe, Little Star, Purunajhinti adolescent Group, Mahakaleswar, Chetana, Lakshya performed colourful cultural programme. In this week long children festival help and cooperation was provided by Odia Literature, Language and Culture  Department, of  Govt of Odisha, Rotary Club of Bhubaneswar, Unique, AEIN,  IMFA, Canara Bank, Orange Wheel, Anita Saree House, Abhishek Garment, Priyadarshini Saree House  etc.  Ratna Dash,  Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Upama Mohanty, Binod Kumar Dash, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty,  etc. of PECUC conducted the programme. The programme was anchored by Diya Kiran, Soumya Priyadarshi, Adyasha and Arushi.

Bhubaneswar 19/11: The 6th evening of the 34th PECUC Sisumela brought forth the enthralling Fancy Dress Competition, featuring the charming children as the evening's main highlight. Adorned in delightful fancy attire, their presence and laughter enchanted the audience, creating a captivating spectacle. Beyond their charming displays, these young participants also delivered powerful messages advocating environmental protection, highlighting the harmful effects of plastic and promoting the importance of a clean, sustainable environment and on various social issues. Bandita Das, Sumitra Tripathy, Usharani Behera, Madhumita Das, Nalini Pradhan  were in the judge of the Competition. They selected the winner as well as inspired the children with their talks. 19^th Nov is also observed as World Day for prevention of Child Abuse and through the awareness messages children also highlighted the importance if this day.  

The guests of the evening were Pradeep Kumar Biswal, IAS, Retd. and Odia Cine Artist Samarpita Das and Debarchan Mishra, Artist .  Their heartfelt appreciation was extended to PECUC for its remarkable efforts in offering a platform that allows children to showcase their inherent talents. The organization's commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive space was widely acknowledged and warmly embraced by all.  The winners of the Modern Dance and Odishi Dance Competition received the prize on this occasion. The seven days event was sponsored by Odia Literature, language and Culture Dept, Govt. of Odisha and Rotary Club of Bhubaneswar, Unique.

In todays progrmmme Mr. Pradosh Pattnaik, Senior journalist and Chairman, PECUC Sisumela Committee,  Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC and Madhabananda Behura, Senior Journalist were also present. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Upama Mohanty, Priyadarshini Swain, Bamadev Jena,  Bishnupriya Mohapatra, Sasmita Sahoo, Satyashiv Rath, Binod Kumar Dash etc. of PECUC facilitated the programme. Children of the Nrutyashree and Nrutya Prativa Dance Group performed colourful cultural programme on this occasion, which was very entertaining for the audience. Today’s programme was anchored by Arushi and Adyasha.

PECUC Sisumela 7^th Day Programme of 20^th Nov 2023

Valediction & Annual Prize and Award Giving Ceremony - at 6:30 PM

At Amphitheatre Ekamrahat, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar (18-Nov-2023): The focal point of the 5th evening at the 34th PECUC Sisumela was the captivating Odishi Dance Competition among the children. Bedecked in vibrant Odishi costumes, the young participants mesmerized the audience with their enchanting performances on stage, creating an atmosphere filled with grace and artistry. The Judges for the today’s competition were Dr. Snehaprava Samantaray, Puspita Mishra and Ranjita Pati.

The guests of the evening  Sujata Jena, Member, OSCPCR, Sharat Kumar Parida, Chief Agriculture Officer and Project Director, ATMA, Khordha,  Prabodh Rath, Secretary Sangeet Natak Academy, Prashant Padhi, Music Director, Dr. Rajani Ranjan, Dialogue Writer, Madahananad Behura, Senior Journalist  distributed prizes among the winner of the Rahyms competition. The presence of the renowned personalities inspired both the artist and audience equally. The 7 days programme was sponsored by Odia Language, Literature and Culture Dept., Govt. Of Odisha, Rotary Club of Unique, Bhubaneswar and Canara Bank.

Among other Mr. Pradosh Pattnaik, Chairman, PECUC Sisumela Committee, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were also present on the occasion. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Jugal Jena, Satyashiv Rath etc. of PECUC conducted the programme. Cultural programme by children of Kalingayana Trayo Trikam, Kwity Kid Group and Little Star captivated the audience. The programme was anchored by Soumya Priyadarshee, Arushi and Adyasha.  

PECUC Sisumela – 6^th Evening - 19^th Nov 2023 Programme

Fancy Dress Competition – 4:30 PM

Venue: At: Ekamrahat Amphitheatre, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar (17-Nov-202023): Tonight marked the 'Pilanka Akhaya' celebration during the 34th PECUC Sisumela. The reverberating melodies of the late legendary singer, lyricist, and music director, Akshaya Mohanty, filled the Amphitheatre of Ekamrahat, sung by the young voices of children. As the evening unfolded, it was a unique and touching tribute by these little ones on the 21st anniversary of the Icon of Odia Music, honoring his enduring legacy through their heartfelt performances.

Singer of the young generation Saswati Narayani Acharya honoured with prestigious Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2023.

 Ekamrahat  reverberate with songs like Jhumi Jhumi Ase Akhi.., Paradesi Bandhu Tume.., Hey Mora Jiban.., Hey Faguna Tume..,Shikari Shikari.., Akashara Buku Chiri.., Fulei Rani Saja Fula.., Nadira Nama Alasa Kanya.., Kene Gheni jauchha.., Pua Mohar Kala Thakura.., Bali Ghar Bhangi.., Kahan e phula kahana.., Chandramalli Hase.., Chithi Mora Tiki Chadhei.., Hrudayar ei Sunyata... etc. The singers were  Tanushree, Saswati Narayani, Akaankshya, Ambarish, Deeshna, Snehasis, Sidhishna, Dibyendu, Anshuman, Mahima Subhalaxmi, Aahana, Aradhya, Debanshu, Saiprasad, and Rikshikha.    They were assisted in musical instrument by Sarat Pani, M. Simadri, Pinku & Alok. The prizes were given to the winners of song and Rhymes competition. Today’s programme was organized by PECUC in joint collaboration with Rotary Club, Bhubaneswar.

Eminent singer, Laxmikant Palit, Bibhu Das, Bandita Das,  were the guest of the evening. Other notable personalities like Chhabi Mahali, Member OSCPCR, Madhumita Das, Consultant WCD, Rotarian and CEO Chetna Dr. Narayan Pati, Rotarian Dibyaranjan Das, Subrat Pati, Secretary,Community Radio Association, Odisha, were also present on this occasion.

Dr. Minakshi Panda, Chairman, PECUC, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC, also spoke on the occasion. Ratna Dash, Alpana Das, Panu Behera, Binod Kumar Das etc. of PECUC facilitated the programme. The special programme was anchored by Diya Kiran and Saumya Priyadarshi.

PECUC Sisumela 5^th Day Programme of 18^th Nov

Odishi Dance Competition at 5:00 PM

Cultural Programme & Prize Distribution at 7:00 PM

At: Ekamrahat Amphitheatre, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: On the third evening of PECUC Sisumela, the Amphitheatre of Ekamrahat burst with life as the young talents took to the stage, their dancing steps creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The audience was enthralled, and their resounding applause and words of praise filled the air. It was a day dedicated to the art of modern dance, where the little stars dazzled the crowd with their extraordinary performances adorned with beautiful costumes, making it a memorable and joyous occasion.  The judges for the today’s competition were Rekha Sahoo, Annapurna Mohanty, Minakhi Behera and Dilip Kumar G, Sharmila Sahoo .

The guests of the evening were Ms. Sasmita Nanda Member, OSCPCR,  Harihara Sethy, Former Executive Engineer, BSNL, Dhaneswar Mohanty, Senior lawyer and President Bhubaneswar Bar Association and  Rubi Rout, Development professional. They expressed their heartfelt appreciation for PECUC's invaluable initiative in offering a platform for children to showcase their innate talents without any inhibitions, fear, or bias. The organization's dedication for providing a nurturing environment free from anxiety and discrimination was widely acknowledged and lauded by all.

Dr. Minakshi Panda, Chairman, PECUC, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were present on this occasion. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Upama Mohanty, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty, Santilata Sahoo, Bishnupriya Mohanpatra etc. of PECUC facilitated the programme. Cultural Troup of DM School and Pratibha Adolescent Group of Barijanga performed on this occasion..

PECUC Sisumela 4^th Day Programme of 17^th Nov

Pilanka Akshya: Akshya Mohanty’s song by children at 6:30 PM

At Amphitheatre Ekamrahat, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar (15-Nov-2023): The Ekamrahat Amphitheatre came alive as the youngest stars took center stage for the much-anticipated 'Baby of the Year' competition during the second day of the week-long Children's Festival on November 15th. The event was brimming with excitement, featuring adorable toddlers participating in competitions such as 'Baby of the Year' and a delightful 'Rhymes' contest. The awareness message on different social and environmental issues by the little children attracted the attention of the audience. The esteemed panels of judges and guests for this enchanting day of performances were Dr. Puranima Pradhan, Doctor, Madhumita Das, Consultant WCD, Dr. Mitali Mohanty, Psychologist, Dr. Sudhir Chandra Das, Doctor, Usharani Behera, Social Worker, Annapurna Mohanty, Odishi Dancer, Sharmila Sahoo, Teacher and Editor Sindhuja, Dr. Madhabananda Behura, Senior Journalist and Manoranjan Dash, CRS. They inspired the children and wished for a better future for them. Among other Prodosh Pattnaik, President, Sisumela Committee, Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were present. On this occasion winners of the Elocution competition received their prize. 

Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Priyadarshini Swain, Satyashiv Rath, Biswajit Swain, Binod Kumar Dash, Sasmita Sahu etc. of PECUC facilitated the programme. The child anchors of the evening are Diya Kiran, Arushi Adwika and Harshali Dora. Colourful Cultural Programme performed by the child artists of different dance groups like Pearly International School, Sunrise Ecosavers youth network of Kelasahi slum, and little Star Dance group.

3^rd day PECUC Sisumela 16^th Nov

Modern Dance Competition for Sisu at 5:00 PM, Sub-junior at 6:00 PM

Cultural Programme by Children & prize distribution at 7:00 PM

Bhubaneswar – Children should work hard for a better future was said by the eminent dignitaries present in the inaugural ceremony of 34^th PECUC Sisumela (Children festival) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha  at Ekamarahaat Ampetheatre, Bhubaneswar. This inaugural ceremony started with lighting of lamp by many eminent dignitaries and talented children of different fields. There should be encouragement and inspiration in every spear to bring into forefront the inner talents of the children was said by them.  

Joining the inaugural ceremony as chief guest Ms. Sulata Deo, MP, Rajyasabha said parents need to extend a hand of support instead of pressuring their children to fulfill their own hopes and dreams.

Mr. Anant Narayan Jena, MLA, Bhubaneswar Central, addressed the children and encouraged them by saying that children should be given the opportunity to express their inner qualities. Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das said that all children should strive to fulfill their dreams to become good citizens. Among other Mr. Pritikanta Panda, Programme Maneger, OSCPS, Ms. Arya Panigrahi, President, Rotary Club of Unique, Bhubaneswar also spoke on this occasion.

Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik, Senior Journalist and President of PECUC Sisumela committee presided over the over the inaugural function and said PECUC is working since last 34 years to bring smile in the face of every children. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the information about PECUC Sisumela. Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood and it is the responsibility of all to create such environment was said by Mr. Mohanty. Ms. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson PECUC said parents should give time to their children and inspire them to continue their hard work for a better future.

Child artist Suhana Kar  in her speech encouraged the children to work hard for a healthier world and also suggested them to dream for their future. Ms. Kalpana Jena, Bronz Medal Winner at Berlin in Special Olympics for cycling and Miss. Ariditta Chakravorty, Silver medal winner in 400 mtr running race also spoke on the occassion

Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks and gave information about the children festival.  On this occasion, the winners of the drawing competition were given prize. Colourful cultural programme was performed by children of Dasaabatara Natya Sala , Divya Jyoti Smruti Pitha cultural troupe, Lakshya Dance Group and Prakruti Adolescent Group of Kargil Slum. Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Alpana Dash, Priyadarshini Swain of PECUC facilitated the programme.  On 20^th November the Annual Awards giving ceremony of PECUC will be organised. 

34^th PECUC Sisumela – 2^nd Day Programme

Baby of the year competition (6 months to 3 years children) – 4:30 PM

Rhymes Competition (Nursery to Class-I) – 5:30 Pm and Cultural Programme at 7:00 PM

People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha organising “Sisumela”- A special programme for children since 1990. This year the 34^th PECUC Sisumela will be organised from 14^th to 20^th Nov at Ekamrahat Amphitheatre. Except elocution all other competitions will be organised at Ekamrahat Amphitheatre. Details are to be found in the facebook page of PECUC “@PECUC” and at our website www.pecuc.org.

On this occasion various competitions among children will also be held. On 12th November Drawing Competition (Class 2nd to XII) at Ekamrahat at 8 am & Music Competition (Class 2nd to XII) at 11am; 15th at 4:30pm for under 3 year old children “baby of the year” competition (birth certificate and vaccination certificate mandatory) and 5:30 Rhymes Competition (Nursery to Class-I); Modern Dance Competition (Nursery to 4th Class) on 16th at 5pm; 18th at 5:00 PM Odissi Dance (Classes 2nd to 7th); And on 19th at 4:00 p.m., Fancy Dress (Nursery to 7th Class), will be held. The contestants are divided into Sisu, Sub junior, Junior, Senior and Super Senior groups on the basis of their class.

 This year, the elocution competition will be held online in both Odia and English. The topics for 5th to 7th grade children are “ପରିବେଶ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ପାଇଁ ଛୋଟୋ ଛୋଟୋ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟର ଶକ୍ତି” and "The power of small action to protect environment"; Class 8th to 10th on topic “ତମାଖୁ ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରଣ: ଏକ ଜୀବନ ରକ୍ଷକ ମିଶନ୍”and “Tobacco Control: A Lifesaving Mission”; topic for Class 11th and 12th “ସୁସ୍ଥ ପିଢୀ ପାଇଁ ସ୍ଥାନୀୟ ଦେଶୀ ଖାଦ୍ୟ ଓ ଫାଷ୍ଟ ଫୁଡ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ସନ୍ତୁଳନ କରିବା” and “Balancing Slow and Fast Food for a Healthier Generation” Contestants should submit a 3-minute video of their speech to psisumela@gmail.com Or send to whatsApp number 7849010021. They also should mention their name, class, school along with their mobile number in th video. The last date for sending the video is 12^th November.

We are also inviting bio data for PECUC’s different Annual Awards. This bio data or CV should be sent to psisumela@gmail.com by 1^st November. The awards that will be awarded to the children below 18 years are “Prananatha Pattnaik Memorial Award” for social work, “Dr. P.C. Dash Memorial Sisu Pratibha Award” for all round achievement, “Baji Rout Memorial Award” for bravery and courageous activities, “Sharat Pujari Memorial Awards” to child Artist for acting,  “Ketaki Pattnaik Memorial Award” for securing highest mark in 5^th class scholarship examination, “Aadaramani Baral Memorial Award” to a girl for strong leadership and bringing change & “Sushama Mohapatra Memorial Awards” to a girl for the outstanding contribution in the field of sports. In this occasion other awards that will be given are “Shishusathi Award” for outstanding contribution for children, “Swarup Jena Memorial Award” for outstanding contribution in the field of Journalism, “Abani Baral Memorial Award” for teacher, “Dr. P.C. Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakhya Award” for working towards child protection and development and “Aradhana Nanda Memorial Award” to Women PRI for her outstanding work as people’s representative.

Bhubaneswar 09/06: Ensuring learning outcome, trust building, collaboration, networking, partnership along with integrating technology can bring meaningful changes in advancing elementary education was said by eminent speakers and educationist joining State Level Workshop on Advancing Elementary Education: Innovations and Opportunities organised at YVDSS, Bhubaneswar on 9^th June 2023. This workshop was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in collaboration with AEIN and in cooperation with RTE Forum, Odisha. Joining the inaugural session as chief guest Sri Manoj Kumar Padhi, OAS (SAG), Director, SCERT said joyful learning with child friendly environment & proper utilisation of available resources with an innovative approach can be able to create interest among children for education for building a better society. Sasmita Nanda, Member, OSCPCR emphasised on the role of both parents and teachers to motivate and encourage children towards education. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this workshop. He further said that we have to discuss solutions, innovation and opportunities for strengthening elementary education. Dr Minakhsi Panda, Chairman, PECUC chaired the inaugural session.

Joining this workshop as guest speaker of different sessions Sasmita Mali, Deputy Director, Mo School Abhijan spoke about innovation and collaboration efforts of Mo School Abhijan for giving new direction to elementary education. Mr. Jagadananda, Member Secretary, CYSD said motivated teachers and powerful teacher’s training and partnership in all level is required to bring changes in the education system. Anil Pradhan, Secretary, Sikhyasandhan and Convener RTE forum, said we need to contextualise education according to the need of different areas. Dr. Rabindra Narayan Behera, Former Director of NIC, Bhubaneswar emphasises on the use of appropriate technology and said children of this generation are born with technology and we need to teach them in their platform. Dr. Santosh Parida, Educationist said need assessment of children is necessary before teaching them. Smaranika Pattnaik, DAV Public School, Pokhariput said we need to teach children by using appropriate technology. Among other Usharani Behera, BGVS, Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC also spoke in this workshop along with many senior educationist from different district of Odisha.  In open house discussion participants shared various issue, concerns and also success stories relating to elementary education. 65 participants including teachers, CSOs, CRCCs, BRCCs from different districts of Odisha participated in this workshop. Vote of thanks was given by Alpana Das of PECUC. Ratna Dash, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty of PECUC facilitated the programme.

Bhubaneswar 05/06: Every year, World Environment Day is observed on June 5 worldwide. The reason for this day's observation is to generate mass awareness for the protection and preservation of our environment. This year's theme for World Environment Day is "Beat Plastic Pollution" to bring attention to the threats that plastic pollution poses to our environment. Globally, there are about 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic in the world; some 6.3 billion tonnes of that are trash. Plastics account for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. A whopping 2 million plastic bags are used every minute worldwide. 73% of beach litter worldwide is plastic.

Every year, PEUC observes World Environment Day on June 5. This year, on this occasion, Ecosavers Youth Network members of the People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation in Odisha, organised a cleaning activity for plastic litter at Khandagiri and Udayagiri Hill, a famous tourist site in the heart of the city. Members of the Ecosavers youth network participated in this activity and cleaned the area of plastic. On this occasion, a webinar was also organised on the theme "Beat Plastic Pollution" by PECUC and Ecosavers Youth Network. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of PECUC, gave the opening address and shared the purpose of this workshop. Plastic pollution is posing a serious threat to the Earth's environment, and it is also destroying ecosystems. It is our responsibility to work towards creating a plastic-free environment. Mr. Mohanty said that the young generation should come forward and take the lead in this drive. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, State President of Ecosavers Youth Network, gave the welcome address and chaired the webinar. In this webinar, Deepak Kumar Mishra, an environmentalist with the Baitarani Initiative, spoke about the various measures that can be adopted for managing plastic waste to save the earth and its environment. Rubi Rout, an expert resource person, spoke about the role of youth in generating awareness and bringing about a change in people's behaviour and practises. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, also inspired the youth to be changemakers and leaders in protecting the environment. In this programme, Ecosavers group members Stuti Ranjan, Subhas, Kirti, and other youth  shared their success stories. A vote of thanks was given by Subhas Chandra Mahant of Kendujhar. At various Districts  of PECUC’s operational areas activities like cleaning drives, plantations, painting, messaging, etc. were carried out by youth, children, and women to create mass awareness about the harmful impact of plastic pollution. This programme was facilitated by Alpana Das, Satyanarayan Mahanta, Upama Mohanty, Priyadarshini Swain, Sumitra Mohanty, Binod Kumar Das of PECUC.  

Bhubaneswar 31/05- Tobacco has now become a major threat to public health. It is one of the major causes of death and disease in India and accounts for nearly 1.35 million deaths every year. India is also the second largest consumer and producer of tobacco. Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke kill about 1.2 million Indians each year. India accounts for 70% of the global burden of smokeless tobacco. Smokeless tobacco use kills over 230,000 Indians each year. Nearly 90% of oral cancers in India are attributable to smokeless tobacco use.  Bidi and cigarette smokers die 6 to 10 years earlier than their non-smoking counterparts. 27% of all cancers in India are attributable to tobacco use.

To improve public health by reducing tobacco use and pursuing the goal of a tobacco-free society People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in collaboration with Royal College of Science and Technology & Coalition for Tobacco Free Odisha organised a student & youth convention on the occasion of “World No Tobacco Day” at the Royal College of Science and Technology, Rasulgarh, Bhubaneswar with the presence of more than 500 nos of students & youth. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC spoke about various features of the COTPA. He encouraged youth to come forward and take the lead for creating a tobacco-free society. Dr. Bishnu Mohan Mohanty, Chairman, the Royal College of Science and Technology, advised the youth to stay away from tobacco use and also to work for a tobacco free society. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC spoke about the role of youth and student in making Odisha tobacco free. Satyashiv Rath, Project Coordinator spoke about health risk associated with tobacco use. The students and young people along with the participants also took an oath for working for a tobacco-free society. The programme was facilitated by Alpana Das, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Harihar Balabantary of PECUC. On this occasion, youth and student volunteers along with traffic volunteers wearing T-Shirts with various messages of World No Tobacco Day managed the traffic. This was jointly organised by Health and Family Welfare department of Govt. of Odisha, Commissionarate Police of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar and PECUC. In the operational areas of PECUC rallies, messaging, paintings and meetings were organised with the participation of youth, women and children for generating awareness for creating a tobacco-free society.

Nischintakoili 24/5: Gender-based violence in Odisha is a major concern despite several measures taken to strengthen the safety of women and girls. The crime rate per 1 lakh of the women population in the state rose to 137.8 in comparison to 112.9 in 2020, the third highest in the country after Assam and Delhi. As many as 31,352 cases of crime against women were registered in the state in 2021 under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), special and local laws. To prevent gender based violence and to create awareness community Radio Station - Radio Sampark 89.6 MHz and People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) with support of SMART organised a stakeholder’s workshop on gender based violence at Panchayat Samiti Conference Hall, Nischintakoili Block. Dr. Minakshi Panda, Chairman PECUC, chaired the programme. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Seretary PECUC & Head Radio Sampark gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this workshop. He also spoke about the works of radio sampark and also about the People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC). He further stated that Radio Sampark 89.6 is implementing a programme gender based violence and through this inititive many informative programmes are getting broadcasted through Radio Sampark 89.6 and simoultaneously  women group members are organising various awareness programme in the villages. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave a brief note about the Gender based violence programme.

Joining this workshop as guest speaker Dibyajyoti Smrutiranjan Deo, BDO, Nischintakoili appreciated the efforts of PECUC & Radio Sampark and said gender based violence can be prevented only when we stop differentiating between our son and daughter. Ashoka Kumar Ojha, Panchayat Samiti Vice chairman said to prevent gender based violence each and every person of the society along with panhayat functionaries and all stakeholders should carried on their duty properly. Swarnamayee Das, Protection Officer, for DV ACT, Cuttack, said women can take the help of DV act. They don’t need to leave their house rather they should seek the help of protection officer. Chinmayee Sahoo, Inspector In Charge, Nischintakoili said about the different protection measures such as to keep all the emergency helpline number, to seek help from nearest police station, service providers, and panchayat office in case of emergency. Among others Soumya Sucharita Das, Sakhi One Stop Centre, Cuttack, Dr. Japani  Mohapatra, Block PHC, Sujata Mahanandia, Block Programme Coordinator, Ramanath Sahoo, Former Principal of Subhadra Mohatad college, Asureswar, Ratna Dash, Treasurer, PECUC & Fakir Charan Nayak, Retired eductionalist spoke about the types of gender based violence, causes and different measures and steps to be taken to prevent it. Economically empowering of women along with making their position stable in the society, awareness and proper implementation of laws and legislature can help in preventing gender based violence and for this purpose cooperation and coordination at all level is necessary. More than 100 nos of participants including Sarpanch, Ward Members, Members of Panchayat Samiti, AWW, ASHA workers, Women SHG leaders, women group members, representative from Govt. Line dept., joined this workshop. Vote of thanks was given by Debiprita Mohapatra of Radio Sampark.  Gayatri Tripathy of Radio Sampark moderated the programme. Bhabanishankar Patra, Pritam Priiyabarta Bhuyan of Radio Sampark facilitated the programme.    

Bhubaneswar 20/05/2023: Inclusiveness, proper implementation of laws and legislature, accessible support systems, making use of technology and above all behavioural changes & sensitive approach is essential for building a inclusive society where disability or gender will not be a barrier for leading a life of dignity was said by the eminent dignitaries joining the “State Level Consultation on Gender Equality and Disability”. This programme was organised under C20 G20 India Programme on Gender & Disability at Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar by Bal Kalyan Sangh (BKS), Ranchi in collaboration with People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), Bhubaneswar with Support from Asia Foundation.  Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the welcome address, shared the purpose of this workshop and chaired the opening session. Shri Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Secretary Bal Kalyan Sangh spoke on the role of CSOs in advancing gender equality and disability rights and he further stated that the best practices and innovative strategies applied by the CSOs will be shared to the G20 groups. It is an opportunities for the CSOs to showcase their work to the Government. Ms Nandita Baruah, Country Head, The Asia Foundation joined online and spoke about the various thematic areas to focus on, to promote Gender Equality and eliminate Gender Based Violence and also to bring forward the challenges and concerns.   

A panel discussion on “Intersectionality and Inclusivity: The Confluence of Gender Equality and Disability Rights in Empowering Marginalized Communities” was also held. Prof. Dr. Narayan Chandra Pati, CHETNA moderated the session. Ms Kasturi Mohapatra, Former Chairperson, OSCPCR & Former Commissioner Persons with Disability, Govt of Odisha stated that a sensible approach, equal accessibility and proper implementation of laws & legislatures, schemes and programmes can bring meaningful changes in the life of many. Dr. Subrat Dash, State Rehabilitation Officer, SSEPD, Govt of Odisha discussed about the various initiatives taken by the SSEPD department and also about the schemes and programmes for the persons with disability. Ms Bisakha Bhanja, Gender Expert, NAWO spoke about the different challenges and discrimination faced by the disable people and it is essential to break the barrier by providing them equal opportunity and adopting a positive approach. Prof. Dr. Satya Mohapatra, Secretary, Margdarshi, & Regional Coordinator, Rehabilitation Council of India, emphasized on adopting innovative cost effective technology is important to create a better life for persons with disability. Civil Society organizations from different districts of Odisha also shared their best practices and experiences in this consultation & the session was moderated by Prakash Rath, OLS. 77 participants including CSOs, academicians, representatives of electronic & print media from different districts of Odisha participated in this consultation. Vote of thanks was given by Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC. This programme was facilitated by Ratna Dash, Alpana Dash & Jyotishankar Mohanty  of PECUC.

Balianta 26/4: Tobacco use is a significant public health problem worldwide, and it is a leading cause of preventable death and disease. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), tobacco use kills nearly 8 million people every year, with the majority of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Young people are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of tobacco use, and early initiation of tobacco use can lead to addiction and other health problems later in life. Therefore, it is critical to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of tobacco use and to promote healthy behaviours. "Youth Sensitization Workshop on Tobacco Prevention and Control" can be an effective way to educate young people about the risks of tobacco use and encourage them to adopt healthy behaviours.

With a aim to educate young people about the health risks associated with tobacco use, raise awareness about the tobacco control policies and measures, Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Product Act, strengthen youth led campaigns for tobacco free environment, promote youth ambassadors for engagement with stakeholders at different levels to strengthen tobacco control measures youth sensitization workshop was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) at Kanchilo Govt. Primary School, Balianta. In this workshop 23 nos of youth participated and received training. Youth coordinator of PECUC Alice and Project Coordinator Satyashiv Rath provided the training to youth. Joining as guest Suchitra Parida, IIC, Pahala Police Station spoke about the various health hazards associated with tobacco use and advised the youths to refrain from it. This workshop was facilitated by Jyotishankar Mohanty, Upama Mohanty and Alpana Das of PECUC.  

Bhubaneswar 20/11- Children are the foundation of good society. It is the responsibility of parents and the teachers to provide them a conducive environment for developing them into a better human being was said by the Hon’ble Justie ce Sanju Panda, Former Chief Justice of Odisha High Court joining the valedictory ceremony of 33rd Children’s festival of People’s Cultural centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha. Children should be given the moral education and they should be thought the life history of Swami Vivekananda and Sraban Kumar for developing better character was said by Justice Panda.

This programme was presided over by President, Sisumela Committee and Renowned Journalist Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik and Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the introductory note. Among other Dr. Minakhi Panda, chairperson PECUC, Ms. Ruby Rout, Country Director, Adoptionscentrum, Madhumita Das, Consultant WCD, Bandita Das, Eminent Singer and Anuradha Biswal, Olympian also spoke on this occasion. Vote of Thanks was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC.

On this occasion children and adults personalities were honoured with many prestigious annual awards for their outstanding achievements in different fields. Child Artist Trisha Patro of Bhubaneswar received “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2022” for acting, Saswati Narayani Acharjya of Bhubaneswar  received “Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2022”  for all round achievement, Omprakash Sahoo of Kendrapada received “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2022” for bravery and courageous activity,  Kirti Behera of Bhubaneswar  was given “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2022” for social work, change maker and leader Lisha Digal of Kandhamal received  “Adaramoni Boral Memorial Award 2022” for her leadership, G. M. Alakananda received “Sushama Mohapatra Memorial Sports Award 2022” for her achievement in the field of sports and Adyasha Arohi received “Baby of the Year 2022” award

Senior Journalist Birendra Narayan Mishra was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2022” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, where as “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2022” to Madhab Biswal for his contribution in the field of teaching, “Sisusathi Award 2022” to Sasmita Swain for outstanding contribution in the field of children literature, “Dr. P. C. Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2022” to Dr. Narayan Chandra Pati for his social work,  Rasmita Sahoo, Sarapanch Bainchua of Balianta block  was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2022” for her outstanding work as a people’s representative for women and child. Winners of the modern dance competition also received prize today.

In every evening colourful cultural programme was performed by children of KTT Dance Group, Dasa Abatara Natya Sala, Vicky Dance Group, Dibya Jyoti Smruti Pitha.  

In this week long children festival help and cooperation was provided by Rotary Club RCB Unique, Floraldralosa Barn, AEIN, Herbage Herbals, IMFA, Priyadarshini, Canara Bank etc. Ratna Dash, Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Upama Mohanty etc. of PECUC conducted the programme.

Bhubaneswar: 33^rd PECUC Sisumela has reached its second day. The main attraction of today’s evening was baby of the year and modern dance competition among the children. The presence and laughter of the little one on the stage adorned with beautiful dresses and costumes captivated the audience. They danced enthusiastically to the rhythms of music and the audience was enthralled by their performances.    Dr. Purunima Pradhan, Ms. Pratikshya Sahoo, Mr. Dillip Kumar G, Mr. Abhishek Samantaray & Ms. Annapurna Mohanty were the judge of the competition. They selected the winner as well as inspired the children with their talks.

The guests of the evening were Pritikanta Panda, Programme Manager, Odisha State Child Protection Society, Kasturi Mohapatra, Former Chairperson, OSCPCR, Madhabanand Behura, Senior Journalist, Dr. Purunima Pradhan, Gynecologist. They appreciated the effort of PECUC for providing a platform for the children to exhibit their inner talent without any fear, anxiety and discrimination. Prizes were distributed to the winners of the fancy dress, elocution and odissi dance competitions. Colourful cultural programme were performed by the children of Little Star & Kwitty Kid dance group on this occasion.

In todays progrmmme Pradosh Pattnaik, Chairman, Sisumela Committee, Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC,  Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were present. Ratna Dash, Jyoti Sankar Mohanty,  Sumitra, Chandan, Ranjita, itishree, Priyadarshini, Urmila, Bishnupriya, Shital, Chittaranjan etc. of PECUC conducted the programme.

Bhubaneswar 18^th Nov – There should be encouragement and inspiration in every spear to bring into forefront the inner talents of the children. Along with education they should be taught to work for the betterment of the society from the early age was said by the eminent dignitaries present in the inaugural ceremony of 33^rd PECUC Sisumela (Children festival ) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha at Ekamarahaat Ampetheatre, Bhubaneswar. This inaugural ceremony started with lighting of lamp by guests.  

Joining the inaugural ceremony as chief guest Ananta Narayan Jena, Member Odisha Legislative Assembly said  children should learn to identify their talent and also should get opportunity  to exhibit it. Ms. Sulochana Das, Mayor Bhubaneswar Municipality appreciated the work PECUC doing for the protection of children. Ms. Mandakini Kar, Chairperson, Odisha State Protection for Child Rights gave call to protect the present of the children for a better tomorrow. The parents should try to recognize the inner talent of their children and should work for refining it was by Ms. Kar.

Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik, Senior Journalist and President of PECUC Sisumela committee presided over the over the inaugural function. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the information about PECUC Sisumela. Among others Radhika Srivastavs, Advocacy, Communications and Partnership specialist of UNICEF, Ms. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson PECUC, Anshika Routray, PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for Promotion of Right of the Children to Play spoke on the occassion. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks and gave information about the children festival. On this occasion the first edition of “Mo Katha Suno” a book prepared by child reporter with support from UNICEF was released by the child reporter Subhenu Sekhar Das and Ipsita Mohanty along with the guests.  Winners of Rhymes and drawing competition also received the prizes today. Odissi Dance competition was organized and  also colourful cultural programme was performed by children of Dasaabatara Natya Sala and Divya Jyoti Smruti Pitha cultural troupe. Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Sandhya Rani Kanungo, Samar Kumar Pattnaik of PECUC facilitated the programme.  On 20^th November the Annual Awards giving ceremony of PECUC will be organised. 

Child Artist Tanushree Jena honoured with prestigious ‘Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2022’.

Bhubaneswar (17/11):  On 17^th November a special musical night “Pilanka Akhaya” was organized as a tribute to the Legendary Singer, Lyricist & Music Director Late Akshaya Mohanty and other eminent odia singers at Ekamrahaat Amphitheatre. In a unique way children paid homage to the Icons of Odia Music.  

Eminent Singer and Former Director of All India Radio Dr. Sudha Mishra, Eminent singer, Ms. Bandita Das were the guest of the evening. They threw lights on the different aspects of the life of the legendary Singer. Among other Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC also spoke and paid her homage to the Legendary Singer. Ms. Minakshi Panda, Chairman, PECUC presided over the ceremony. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC announced the name of the winner of the Pilanka Akshaya Samman Award 2022. People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) is giving this award to a singer below 18 years of age since year 2003 was said by Mr. Mohanty.

Singer of the young generation Tanushree Jena honoured with prestigious ‘Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2022’.

Children sang everlasting songs of legendary odia singers like “To chaka dola ku”, “Smruti tume”, “Chandramalli Hase”, “Naja Radhika”, “Mu Rikshawabala”, “Bhasa Megha mujhe bhasi jae dure”, “Adina malli mahak”, “Ei jhuma jhuma golapi belare”, “Se ta bhakata bhabare bandhare”, “Ei je banalata pahada”, “Aahe nila shaila”, “Jiban patro mo”, “Sagare Adhira Nilataranga” etc. The singers were Akankshya Sahoo, Tanushree Jena, Snehasis Das, Sidisna Bindhani, Manaswi Mishra, Saikrishna Mohanty,  Adysha Singh Samanta, Ahana Swain, Sivanshu Mohapatra, Indira Priyadarshini, Dishna Dibyansi Sahu. They were assisted in musical instrument by Sarat Pani, Alok, Bablu & Kishore. The prizes were given to the winners of song competition.  Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Jyoti Shankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Harihar Balabantaray, Satyashiv Rath  etc. of PECUC conducted the programme. 

୧୪/୧୧:  ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ସପ୍ତାହ ଓ ୩୩ ତମ ପିକକ୍‍ ଶିଶୁ ମେଳା ପରିପ୍ରେକ୍ଷୀରେ ଏକ ନିଆରା ଢଙ୍ଗରେ ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ଵେଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ସଂଗଠନ ପିପୁଲସ୍‍ କଲଚରାଲ୍‍ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍‍) ପକ୍ଷରୁ ଶିଶୁ ଦିବସ ପାଳିତ ହୋଇଯାଇଛି ।  ପିପୁଲସ୍‍ କଲଚରାଲ୍‍ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍‍) ସହଯୋଗରେ ପ୍ରୟାସ କିଶୋର ବାଳକ ଗୋଷ୍ଟି ଓ ପ୍ରକୃତି କିଶୋରୀ ବାଳିକା ଗୋଷ୍ଟି ଦ୍ଵାରା ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ କାର୍ଗିଲ ବସ୍ତି ଗୋଷ୍ଟି କେନ୍ଦ୍ରରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହୋଇଯାଇଛ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ରେ କାର୍ଗିଲ ବସ୍ତି ଅଞ୍ଚଳର ବହୁସଂଖ୍ୟକ  ଶିଶୁ  ଯୋଗଦେଇଥିଲେ । ପିକକ୍ ର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟନିର୍ବାହୀ ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶିକା ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ଅନୁରାଧା ମହାନ୍ତି ସ୍ଵାଗତ ଭାଷଣ ଦେଇ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ଶିଶୁ ଦିବସ ଅବସରରେ ସ୍ଵାଗତ ଜଣାଇଥିଲେ ଓ ସେମାନେ ତାଙ୍କ ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର ଉନ୍ନତି କାମନା କରିଥିଲେ । ପିକକ୍ ର ସମ୍ପାଦକ ଶ୍ରୀଯୁକ୍ତ  ରଞ୍ଜନ କୁମାର ମହାନ୍ତି,  ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଏକ ସୁରକ୍ଷିତ ବାତାବରଣ ଓ ଆନନ୍ଦମୟ ଶୈଶବ ସୁନିଶ୍ଚିତ କରିବା ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ର ଦାୟିତ୍ଵ ବୋଲି ସେ କହିଥିଲେ। ପିଲାମାନେ ପାଠ ପଢିବା ସହିତ ମନଭରେ ଶୈଶବ କୁ ଉପଭୋଗ କରିବାକୁ ଆମେ ସମସ୍ତେ ଉପଯୁକ୍ତ ପରିବେଶ ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରିବାକୁ ସେ ମତ ଦେଇଥିଲେ ।  

ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମରେ ବସ୍ତି ର ସଭାପତି ରବିନାରାୟଣ  ଦାସ, ପୁଲିସ ମିତ୍ର ଦଳ ର ମୁଖ୍ୟ ପୂର୍ଣଚନ୍ଦ୍ର ମଲ୍ଲିକ, ବସ୍ତି ପୋଲିସ ମିତ୍ର କେ ଆର ଦୋରା, ପୋଲିସ ମିତ୍ର ବିଶ୍ଵଜିତ ମଲ୍ଲିକ ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଯୋଗଦେଇ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ଶିଶୁ ଦିବସ ଉପଲକ୍ଷେ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା ଜଣାଇଥିଲେ ଓ ପିଲାମାନେ ଭଲ ମଣିଷ ହେବାପାଇଁ ଏହି ଦିବସରୁ ପ୍ରେରଣା ନେବା ଉଚିତ ବୋଲି କହିଥିଲେ ।  ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ମିଷ୍ଠାନ ବଣ୍ଟନ ମଧ୍ୟ କରଯାଇଥିଲା ।  ପିକକ୍‍ ର ଅଳ୍ପନା ଦାସ, ପ୍ରିୟଦର୍ଶିନୀ ସ୍ଵାଇଁ  ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ର ପରିଚାଳନା କରିଥିଲେ । 

ଭୁବନେଶ୍ଵର: ରାଜ୍ୟର ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ଵେଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ସଂଗଠନ ପିପୁଲସ କଲଚରାଳ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍), ଇଡିଜିଏଚ ସହଯୋଗ ୨୫ ତମ କଳିଙ୍ଗ ପୁସ୍ତକ ମେଳା ରେ ଆୟୋଜିତ ହୋଇଛି ଜୀବିକା ଷ୍ଟଲ ଅକ୍ଟୋବର ୨୮ ରୁ ନଭେମ୍ବର ୬ ତାରିଖ ପର୍ଯ୍ୟନ୍ତ I ଏହି ଷ୍ଟଲ ରେ ମହିଳା ଗୋଷ୍ଟୀ ର ସଦସ୍ୟ ମାନଙ୍କ ଦ୍ଵାରା ଘରୋଇ ହାତ ତିଆରି  ଜିନିଷ, ହସ୍ତକଳା ଏବଂ ଖାଦ୍ୟ ସାମଗ୍ରୀ ପ୍ରଦର୍ଶିତ ହୋଇଛି I ଏହି ସାମଗ୍ରୀ ଗୁଡିକ ପିକକ୍ ଉଦ୍ୟମରେ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ବ୍ଲକ ର ୭ ଟି ପଞ୍ଚାୟତ ର ୧୦ ଟି ଗ୍ରାମ ରେ ଗଠିତ ୧୬ ଟି ମହିଳା ଗୋଷ୍ଟୀ ର ସଦସ୍ୟ ମାନଙ୍କ ଦ୍ଵାରା ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ I ଫନି ବାତ୍ୟାରେ ପ୍ରଭାବିତ ହୋଇଥିବା ମହିଳା ମାନଙ୍କ ର ସ୍ଥାୟୀ ଜୀବିକା ନିମନ୍ତେ ୨୮୮ ଜଣ ମହିଳାଙ୍କୁ ସ୍ଵାବଲମ୍ବୀ ହେବା ନିମନ୍ତେ ତାଲିମ ଓ ସହାୟତା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯାଇଛି I ଏହି ମେଳା ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ସେମାନେ ନିଜର ସାମଗ୍ରୀ ବିକ୍ରି ସହିତ ଏହାର ଚାହିଦା ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରିବା ପାଇଁ ଉଦ୍ୟମ କରୁଛନ୍ତି I ମହିଳା ମାନେ ନିଜେ ଷ୍ଟଲ ରେ ରହି ନିଜର ବ୍ୟବସାୟ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଅନେକ ଦ୍ରବ୍ୟ ବିକ୍ରୟ କରିଥିଲେ I ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଦ୍ରବ୍ୟ ର ଚାହିଦା ମଧ୍ୟ ଖୁବ ଥିଲା I ଏହି ମେଳା ରେ ଭାଗ ନେଇଥିବା ମହିଳା ଗ୍ରୁପ ର ସଦସ୍ୟା ପ୍ରେମଳତା ପରିଡା ଓ ଅର୍ଚ୍ଚନା ସାହୁ କହିଲେ ଯେ ସେମାନେ ଏହି ପ୍ରଦର୍ଶନୀ ରେ ଭାଗନେଇ କିଛି ରୋଜଗାର କରିଛନ୍ତି ଯାହା କି ତାଙ୍କର ପରିବାରକୁ ଆର୍ଥିକ ସହାୟତା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରୁଛି I ପିକକ୍ ର ଜ୍ୟୋତି ଶଙ୍କର ମହାନ୍ତି, ଉପମା ମହାନ୍ତି, ଇତିଶ୍ରୀ ପ୍ରହରାଜ, ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା କାନୁନଗୋ ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ର ପରିଚାଳନା କରିଥିଲେ I                

ରାଜ୍ଯ ର ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ୱେଛାସେବୀ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠାନ ପିପୁଲସ୍‍ କଲଚରାଲ୍‍ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍‍) ଦ୍ୱାରା ୧୯୯୦ ମସିହାରୁ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ସପ୍ତାହ ରେ ସପ୍ତାହବ୍ୟାପୀ “ଶିଶୁମେଳା” ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହୋଇ ଆସୁଛି I ଚଳିତ ବର୍ଷ  ୩୩  ତମ ଶିଶୁ ମେଳା  ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୮, ୧୯ ଓ ୨୦ ତାରିଖ ତିନିଦିନ ଧରି ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ରେ ଭୁବନେଶ୍ବର ଏକାମ୍ର ହାଟ ର ମୁକ୍ତ ରଙ୍ଗମଞ୍ଚରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ । ଏହି ପରିପ୍ରେକ୍ଷୀରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା ଶିଶୁ ମେଳା ପୂର୍ବରୁ ଓ ଶିଶୁ ମେଳା ର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ I କେବଳ ବକ୍ତୃତା ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା କୁ ଡିଜିଟାଲ ମଂଚରେ ଆୟୋଜିତ କରାଯିବ I ଏହାର ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ ବିବରଣୀ www.pecuc.org ରେ ଉପଲବ୍ଧ I

ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପିକକ୍ ର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ବାର୍ଷିକ ସମ୍ମାନ ପାଇଁ ନାମାଙ୍କନ ଆହ୍ଵାନ କରାଯାଉଛି ।  ନାମାଙ୍କନ ବା ମନୋନୟନ ପତ୍ର ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧ ତାରିଖ ମଧ୍ୟରେ shisumela.pecuc@gmail.com ରେ ପହଞ୍ଚିବା ଆବଶ୍ୟକ। ୧୮ ବର୍ଷରୁ କମ୍ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ସମାଜ ସେବା ପାଇଁ ‘ପ୍ରାଣନାଥ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ସବୁ କ୍ଷେତ୍ର ରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନିୟ ସଫଳତା ପାଇଁ “ଡଃ ପି॰ ସି॰ ଦାସ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ଶିଶୁ ପ୍ରତିଭା ସମ୍ମାନ”,  ସାହସିକତା ପାଇଁ ‘ବାଜିରାଉତ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ଅଭିନୟ ପାଇଁ ‘ଶରତ ପୂଜାରୀ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ୫ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ବୃତ୍ତି ପରୀକ୍ଷାରେ ସର୍ବୋଚ ନମ୍ବର ରଖିଥିବା ଛାତ୍ରଛାତ୍ରୀ ଙ୍କୁ ‘କେତକୀ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ବଳିଷ୍ଟ ନେତୃତ୍ୱ ତଥା ସମାଜ ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତନକାରୀ ୧୮ ବର୍ଷ ରୁ କମ ଜଣେ ଝିଅ ଙ୍କୁ “ଆଦରମଣୀ ବରାଳ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ” ଓ କ୍ରୀଡା କ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନୀୟ ଅବଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ ଜଣେ ୧୮ ବର୍ଷ ରୁ କମ ବୟସ୍କ ଜଣେ ଝିଅ କୁ “ସୁଷମା ମହାପାତ୍ର ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”  ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯିବ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପ୍ରତ୍ୟକ ବର୍ଷପରି ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଲେଖୁଥିବା କିମ୍ବା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକରୁ ଥିବା ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ ‘ଶିଶୁସାଥି ସମ୍ମାନ’, ସାମ୍ବାଦିକତା ପାଇଁ “ସ୍ୱରୂପ ଜେନା ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିକ୍ଷାକ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନୀୟ ଅବଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ  ଶିକ୍ଷକଙ୍କୁ “ଅବନୀ ବରାଳ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ବା ବିକାଶ ପାଇଁ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରତ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ “ଡଃ ପି. ସି. ଦାସ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ସୁରକ୍ଷା ସମ୍ମାନ”, ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ନିର୍ବାଚିତ ମହିଳା ପ୍ରତିନିଧି ଙ୍କୁ ତାଙ୍କର ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନୀୟ ଅବଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ  “ଆରାଧନା ନନ୍ଦ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ” ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯିବ ।

ଶିଶୁମେଳା ଅବସରରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରକାରର ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା ମଧ୍ୟ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ । ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୩ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ଏକାମ୍ର ହାଟ ଠାରେ ସକାଳ ୮ ଟା ରେ ଚିତ୍ରାଙ୍କନ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ): ସକାଳ ୧୧ ଟା ରେ ସଙ୍ଗୀତ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୨ୟ ରୁ ଦ୍ଵାଦଶ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ); ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୩ ଟା ରେ  ରାଇମସ୍ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ପ୍ରଥମ); ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୪ ଟାରେ କୌତୁକ ପୋଷାକ (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ),  ୧୮ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ସନ୍ଧ୍ଯା ୭:୩୦ ରେ ଓଡିଶୀ ନୃତ୍ୟ (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ); ଓ  ୧୯ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୪ ଟାରେ ୩ ବର୍ଷରୁ କମ୍ ଶିଶୁଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ସୁନ୍ଦର ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା (ଜନ୍ମ ପ୍ରମାଣପତ୍ର ଏବଂ ଟିକାକରଣ ପ୍ରମାଣପତ୍ର ବାଧ୍ୟତାମୂଳକ); ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫:୩୦ ରେ ଆଧୁନିକ ନୃତ୍ୟ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୭ ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ) I ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ଅନୁସାରେ ଶିଶୁ, ସବଜୁନିୟର, ଜୁନିୟର ଏବଂ ସିନିୟର ଗ୍ରୁପରେ ବିଭକ୍ତ କରାଯାଇଛି । 

ଚଳିତ ବର୍ଷ ଉଭୟ ଓଡିଆ ଓ ଇଂରାଜୀ ରେ ବକ୍ତୃତା ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା  କୁ ଅନ୍ ଲାଇନ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ କରାଯିବ I ୫ମ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ବିଷୟ ବସ୍ତୁ ହେଲା “କୋଭିଡ଼ -୧୯ - ମାନସିକ ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ଉପରେ ପ୍ରଭାବ” ଓ  “COVID19 - impact on Mental health” ; ୮ ମ ରୁ ୧୦ ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ - ବିଷୟ ବସ୍ତୁ ହେଲା “ପୁନ୍ନଃ ପ୍ରକ୍ରିୟା କରଣ ଗ୍ରୀନ ହାଉସ ପ୍ରଭାବ କୁ  ସାହାର୍ଯ୍ୟ କରେ”  ଓ “Recycling helps with green house effects”; ୧୧ ଓ ୧୨ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ - ବିଷୟ ବସ୍ତୁ ହେଲା “ଧୂମ  ପାନ ଦ୍ଵାରା ନିର୍ଗତ ହେଉଥିବା ଧୁଆଁ ଏବଂ  ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ହାନି” ଓ “Secondhand smoke & health harms” I ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନେ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ବକ୍ତୃତା କୁ ୩ ମିନିଟ ର ଭିଡିଓ କରି   shisumela.pecuc@gmail.com କୁ ପଠାଇବାକୁ ଅନୁରୋଧ I ଭିଡିଓ ପଠାଇବାର ଅନ୍ତିମ ତାରିଖ ହେଲା ନଭେମ୍ବର ମାସ ୧ ତାରିଖ I

ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୭ ତାରିଖରେ ସ୍ଵର୍ଗତ ଅକ୍ଷୟ ମହାନ୍ତି ଙ୍କ ସ୍ମୃତି  ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ ରେ ଏକ ସ୍ଵତନ୍ତ୍ର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ “ଅକ୍ଷୟ ସନ୍ଧ୍ଯା” ର ଆୟୋଜନ କରାଯିବ ଓ ନଭେମ୍ବର ୨୦ ତାରିଖର ୩୩ ତମ ଶିଶୁମେଳା ଉଦଯାପିତ ହେବ I     

12/June: “Universal Social Protection to End Child labour” is set as the theme for observation of World Day against Child Labour 2022 by ILO. The major aim of International Labour Organisation (ILO) for celebrating under this theme is to give a call to increase investment in social protection systems and schemes to establish solid social protection floors and protect children from child labour. Social protection prevents families from resorting to child labour in time of crisis. However, as of 2020 and before the COVID 19 crisis took hold, only 46.9 per cent of the global populations were effectively covered by at least one social protection benefit but nearly three quarters of children,1.5 billion, lacked social protection.

To mark the day a mass convention was held on 12^th June 2022 at Satyabhmapur GP Conference Hall by People’s cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this programme. Mr, Rajan Kumar Mohanty, Chairperson, NACG EVAC, India & Secretary PECUC in his key note address said strengthening social protection measures along with safe and quality Education through fulltime schooling can be the pre-requisite for eradicating Child labour and for achieving this desired goal efforts should be made in all level.

Joining this convention Subasini Das, ABEO, Balianta said eradication of child labour is possible by bringing all children to school. Among other Mr. Santosh Sethy, PHEO, Balianta, Among others Sarapanchs of different Panchayats i.e. Ms. Rasmita Bhoi, Satyabhamapur GP Mr. Hrushikesh Parta of Benupur Panchayat, Mr. Bhagaban Behera of Purohitpur Panchayat, Mr. Durjyadhan Mallick of Puranpradhan Panchayat,Mr. Sradheya Patra of Prataprudrapur Panchayat, Ms. Rasmita Sahoo of Bainchua Panchayat, Ms. Ramanata Nayak, Umadeibrahmapur Panchayat,  Mamata Mahari, Panchayat Samiti Members, Purranapradhan, Ranjan Kumar Mahapatra, PS Member Umadeibrahmapur, Maoranjan Sahoo, PS Member Purohitpur,  Nomini of Kakarudrapur Mililata Behera & CRCCS Parikhita Sahoo, Tapan Mohanty, Narayan Charan Lenka, Bibhuti Kishore Sahoo & Ganeswar Biswal  spoke on this occasion. More than 100 nos of participants including AWW, ASHA, Women SHG Members of Balianta block participated in this programme. Massive awareness, cooperation and coordination between different departments, support from parents, families, communities and above all strengthening the social protection measures can successfully make Odisha child labour free was said by the guests. On this occasion a short film on child labour was released by guests.

PECUC launched a campaign for this purpose on 30^th April on National Anti Child Labour Day. A massive campaign was organized in various parts of Odisha. The campaign was also a part of 15 days Campaign launched by the Govt. of Odisha, Labour Dept., Child Labour Cell. PECUC is also organizing this campaign as a part of the call for the celebration of Elimination of Child Labour Week from 12^th to 20^th June by National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).    

Mr. Jyotishankar Mohanty, Ms. Alpana Das, Itishree, Ms. Upama Mohanty, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty  of PECUC facilitated this programme.

In order to build a Tobacco Free Odisha and India everyone must work together. Extensive opinions have been made to raise Mass awareness along with strong implementation of COTPA act.

The above opinion has been made by experts on a Webinar organised on the occasion of No tobacco day by one of the leading CSO of the state People's Cultural Centre (PECUC) , ECOSAVERS Youth Network& Coalition for Tobacco Free Odisha . The webinar was moderated by Mr. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan president of ECOSAVERS youth network.

Mr Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC said  that one live is lost every one minute due to the tobacco  consumption. There are above 4000 harmful chemicals present in the cigarette which is affecting not only the user but also affecting other in the surroundings more. Now tobacco is becoming big threat for the safety of the environment. Hence to have a healthy environment total ban of tobacco is needed as well as increasing the age of selling of products to the persons from 18 to 21 years Mr Mohanty said. Mr Deepak Mishra, Environmental Expert said that if the cultivation of the tobacco is replaced with the food crops, then 10-12 million people can be supplied with food. Cultivation of tobacco leaves is not only spoiling the fertility of the soil but also causing ground water depletion. 5% of the total deforestation is caused globally due to tobacco cultivation. Mr Mishra said that E-cigarette is becoming a major threat to sea environment.  Dr. S.K. Swain of NCD State Nodal Officer,Govt of Odisha  said that 95% of the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) is caused by tobacco consumption. 63% NCD death is caused due to Tobacco consumption only. He stressed on extensive sensitisation to keep the children away from tobacco from very small age. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC expressed looking at the severity of the Tobacco Consumption that COTPA to be strictly implemented along with mass sensitisation. Participants from different parts of Odisha shared their ideas as well as raised their concerns in the webinar. Mr HariharaBalabantaray from PECUC gave vote of thanks. The programme was facilitated  byAlpana Das & Jyoti Shankar Mohanty of PECUC.

People’s Cultural Center (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha In collaboration with Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS) & District Child Protection Unit and with support of UNICEF organized a district level workshop on mental health and psychosocial support for child protection Stakeholder at School of Horticulture, Khordha.  Child Protection Stakeholders including CWC and JJB Members, Members of DCPU Unit, Counsellor of CCIs, AWW, CRCC & BRCC & NGOs attended this workshop. The program commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.  Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC welcomed the guest and shared the objective of workshop on child protection and mental health and explained briefly on SAMARK help desk. Mrs. Banishri Pattanaik, DCPO, Khordha stated that this workshop will help the stakeholders in dealing with cases of mental trauma and providing psychosocial support in time of need. Miss Mehedia Rizvi of UNICEF facilitated the whole day training session using various methods on various topics like Basics of Child Protection: Meaning and present structures; Communication Skills with children; Common Mental Health Issues and referrals on mental health including Sampark Help Desk; Building a roadmap for mental health and psychosocial care support in the district; Psychosocial Assessments of children in difficult circumstances. The stakeholders also shared their experiences, issues related to mental health they have came across in their life & with children too.  The participants also prepared a roadmap for mental health and psychosocial care support. Among other Chinmayee Pathi, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Bamadev Jena and Binod Kumar Das of PECUC supported in this workshop.

22/March: Every year on 22^nd March World Water Day is observed all over the world since 1993. The major goal of observing this day is to create awareness about the importance of freshwater.The idea for the observation of this day goes back to 1992, the year in which the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro took place. That same year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution by which 22 March of each year was declared World Day for Water, to be observed starting in 1993.The core focus of observation of world water day is to support SDG Goal 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030. The theme chosen for this year is “Groundwater: Making Invisible visible”. The focus is on groundwater without which life would not be possible. It supplies a large proportion of the water we use for drinking, food preparation, sanitation, agriculture, industrial processes etc. It is also critically important for healthy functioning of ecosystems. Exploring, protecting and sustainably using groundwater will be central to surviving and adapting to climate change and meeting the needs of a growing population. Around 2.2 billion people living without access to safe drinking water, therefore taking appropriate measures for conservation and preservation of groundwater today will save the earth from a major water crisis of tomorrow

Today World Water Day 2022 was observed by children  group members and Ecosavers youth network group members of PECUC in all its operational areas created awareness about importance of freshwater. They carried various activities like messaging, painting, essay writing, cleaning water sources, providing water to animals and birds, rally to save water and plant trees, hand wash practice, creating blue hand print on a white cloths, preparing gabion structure, handwash water channelizing to kitchen garden etc in their respective areas. More than 500 nos of children and young people actively participated in these activities.

Bhubaneswar 8/3: Women are the source of all power and there is unlimited power within them. Many women have shown their potential and capability in different fields and in the process of development and for a sustainable tomorrow their active participation and leadership is vital and for this purpose gender equality is an essential factor was said by the eminent guests participating in International Women’s Day celebration at Patitapaban Kalyan Mandap, Balianta organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with Rotary Club of Unique. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this programme. The programme was inaugurated by lighting of lamp by guests. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, said women and girls are effective and powerful leaders and change-makers, their participation are very important for a sustainable future. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairman, PECUC also spoke on this occasion. Other eminent guests who joined the programme were Ms. Anasuya Panda, Writer & Headmistress, Govt. High School, Mansinghpatna, Ms. Pritichhanda Dhal, Columnist and Writer, Mr. Krushna Keshaba Apata, Sarpancha Balianta, Ms. Ratna Dash, Treasurer PECUC and Mr. Prasanta Kumar Sahoo, Patitapaban Jubaka Shangha.

In this occasion awards were given to Ms. Shrijata Mishra, Assistant Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Jayarsasan, Balianta; Ms. Chhabirani Mohapatra, ANM Vaccinator, CHC, Balakati; Ms. Lakshmipriya Panda, AWW, Bhubanapur, Balianta and President Pritee Mayee Nayak, Secretary Sunita Routray, MBK Sabita Sahoo of Balianta Women SHG Federation for their outstanding contribution in their line of work. More than 200 women including Women SHG Group Members, AWW, teacher, ASHA worker, MAS members of Balianta Block participated in this programme.  Ms. Upama Mohanty, Block Coordinator of PECUC gave the vote of thanks. Ms. Subhashree Sahoo and Ms. Alpana Das of PECUC facilitated the programme.

Role of Parents in Protecting Children from Cyber Crime Is Important

Bhubaneswar 23/11 – Role of parent is very important in safeguarding their children during the use of internet and not only parents but to prevent children and women from such crime massive awareness is required was said by the experts in the “State Level Workshop on Online Safety” organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha,  with Odisha State Commissioner for Protection of Child Right (OSCPCR), in collaboration with  Föräldralösa Barn at Rotary Bhawan, Bhubaneswar. Joining as Chief Guest Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, OSCPCR said we all should work together to create a safe environment for children. Cyber safety of children is of utmost important was said by her. Ms. Dibya Saswati, Member, OSCPCR gave the information about the 40 days Child Rights Campaign of the commission and through this campaign massive awareness about Child Rights will be created among the masses was said by her.  Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this workshop and she also discussed about the importance of cyber safety for the children. Children are more exposed to online threat due to increasing in online activities of children during this Pandemic situation.

Ms. Ruby Rout, Country Director of Adoptionscentrum said parents should give time to their children and discuss with them about the internet/ cyber safety.. Mr. Dibakar Das, Cyber Expert said children and women are the major target of the cyber crime. Cyber security and awareness is required to prevent it. It is the duty of parent to supervise the online activities of their children. He also gave same information about the use of programme like “family link” to keep the track of their children’s online activities. An open house session was also held in this workshop. More than 70 participants including  representatives from DCPO and CDPO of different districts of Odisha, teachers, PRIs, members of SHG groups joined this workshop. Alpana Das, Mr. Jyotishanka Mohanty, Upama Mohanty, Priyadarshini Swain of PECUC facilitated the programme.

The weeklong 32nd Children’s festival on virtual platform of People’s Cultural centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha has reached its closing day adding another glorious chapter to the history of PECUC Sisumela. Many talented children from Odisha and from other states participated and showed their talent in this Children Festival. This programme was organized in the Guru Kelucharan Odishi Research Centre obeying all COVID19 safety protocol and it was live streaming through Facebook page and youTube channel of PECUC.

Addressing the closing ceremony Chief Guest Justice Sj B.C Das, Honourable Former Justice of Odisha High Court, said education is the right of every child and everyone should work towards it. Mr. Saumya Ranjan Pattnaik, MLA, Founder Editor, The Sambad, advised the children to respect mother tongue and parents and the parents also should consider their child’s interest. He further said that the children should be courageous and truthful in all their action”.  Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, OSCPCR stressed on the protection of the children and it is the responsibility of all.  Among others Mr. Sahadev Sahoo, Former Chief Secretary of Govt of Odisha, Famous Ollywood actress and Goodwill Ambassador of PECUC for promotion of Child Rights, Ms. Bhoomika Das, Goodwill Ambassador of PECUC for promotion of Right to Play, Ms. Anshika Routray, & Ms. Anuradha Biswal, Olympian,also spoke on this occasion. This programme was presided over by President, Sisumela Committee and Renowned Journalist Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the introductory note. Dr. Minakhi Panda, chairperson PECUC also spoke on this occasion. Vote of Thanks was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC.

On this occasion children and adults personalities were honoured with many prestigious annual awards for outstanding performance in different fields. Child Artist Aishwarya Mishra of Bhubaneswar received “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2021” for acting, Sobhana Nayak of Bhubaneswar  received “Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2021”  for all round achievement, Kanhu Charan Mallick of Jagatsinghpur received “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2021” for bravery and courageous activity,  Subhendu Shekhar Das of Bhograi  was given “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2021” for social work, change maker and leader Missy Queenie Panda of Bhubaneswar received  “Adaramoni Boral Memorial Award 2021” for her leadership, Kumari Sabita Toppo received “Sushama Mohapatra Memorial Sports Award 2021” for her achievement in the field of sports, Tanmay Kumar Samantray and Pratyasha Biswal received “Ketaki Pattnaik Memorial award 2021” for their success in the 5^th class Scholarship Exam.

Senior Journalist Mr. Arabina Das was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2021” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, where as “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2021” to Retd. Teacher Radha Charan Prushti for his contribution in the field of teaching, “Sisusathi Award 2021” to Sj. Lakhmikat Raj for outstanding contribution in the field of children litreture, “Dr. P. C. Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2021” to Mr. Hrushikesha Panda for his social work,  Smt. Kabita Majhi, Sarapanch Purohitpur of Balianta block  was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2021” for her outstanding work as a people’s representative for women and child.  Sushree Shailani Suman & Sushree Sanjana Mohanty received special award for providing technological support during COVID19. In every evening colourful cultural programme was performed by children of Odisha and outside state.

In this week long children festival help and cooperation was provided by Rotary Club RCB Unique, Floraldralosa Barn, AEIN, Herbage Herbals, IMFA, Priyadarshini etc. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Upama Mohanty, Sandhya Kanungo, Satyasundar, Atishnu, Biswajit etc. of PECUC conducted the programme and this programme was moderated by Mr. Srinibash Ghatuary (Milan).

Child Artiste Akankshya Sahoo got “Pilanka Akshaya Samman-2021”

Tribute to Legendary Music Director, Singer & Lyricist Akshaya Mohanty by children

Bhubaneswar (17/11): On 17^th November a special musical night “Pilanka Akhaya” was organized on virtual platform as a tribute to the Legendary Singer, Lyricist & Music Director Late Akshaya Mohanty. In a unique way children paid homage to the Icon of Odia Music on his 19^th Death Anniversary. This programme was organized in the Guru Kelucharan Odishi Research Centre and it was live streaming through Facebook page and youTube channel of PECUC.

Eminent Music Director & Singer Sj. Manmath Mishra, Ms. Bandita Das were the guest of the evening. They through lights on the different aspects of the life of the legendary Singer. Among other Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC also spoke and paid their homage to the Legendary Singer. Ms. Minakshi Panda, Chairman, PECUC presided over the ceremony. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC announced the name of the winner of the Pilanka Akshaya Samman Award 2021. People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) is giving this award to a singer below 18 years of age since year 2003 was said by Mr. Mohanty.

Singer of the young generation Akankshya Sahoo honoured with prestigious ‘Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2021’.

Children sang everlasting songs of Akshaya Mohanty like “Mayabini Bana”, Jochhana”, Danei Dasa”, “Shikari Shikari”, “Punyar Naditire”, “Chandramali Hase”, “Lal Tuk Tuk”, “Phurkina udi gala bani”, “A Phaguna tume” etc. The singers were Smaranika Nayak, Akankshya Sahoo, Darshan Kara, Rudra Madhab Mandal, Tanushree Jena, Ahana Swain, Deeshna Dibyadarshi Sahoo & Snehasis Das. They were assisted in musical instrument by Sarat Pani, M. Simadri, Ajay Kumar Das & Dipu. Today’s programme was organized by PECUC in joint collaboration with Rotary Club of UNIQUE, Bhubaneswar. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Jyoti Shankar Mohanty, Mr. Kartik Chandra Das, Ms. Alpana Das  etc. of  PECUC conducted the programme. 

Bhubaneswar – Every child need a safe and protected environment for their growth and wellbeing. Parents, teachers, guardians and community should work together for ensuring a safe environment for children was opined by the eminent dignitaries present in the inaugural ceremony of 32^nd year Sisumela (Children festival week) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization at Bhubaneswar. There should be encouragement and inspiration in every spear to bring into forefront the inner talents of the children was said by them.  

 32^nd PECUC sisumela was inaugurated on the occasion of Children’s Day in Bhubaneswar. The inaugural ceremony was held in virtual platform due to COVID19 situation and keeping in mind children’s safety. This inaugural ceremony started with lighting of lamp by many eminent dignitaries and talented children of different fields. Joining the inaugural ceremony Ms. Sulochana Das, State Commissioner for Persons with Disability said everybody should work together for creating a safe and happy world for children.

Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik, Senior Journalist and President of PECUC Sisumela committee presided over the over the inaugural function and said PECUC is working since last 32 years to bring smile in the face of every children. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the information about the weeklong festival of Sisumela. Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood and it is the responsibility of all to create such environment was said by Mr. Mohanty. Ms. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson PECUC said parents should give time to their children and inspire them to continue their hard work for a better future. Ms. Dibya Saswati, Member OSCPCR emphasis on safe and protected environment for children. Eminent Actress Shimran Patnaik, Lavanya Das, Tiara Miss Teen India 2021 & Miss India Teen Supra Grand International 2022 and Actor Snehal Sujal Mohanty encouraged the children to work hard for a better future and also suggested them to engage themselves in various creative works. Sports person & PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for Promotion of Right of the Children to Play Anshika Routray, emphasized that children should keep themselves safe and should work towards achieving their dream. Among other Ms. Anuradha Biswal, Olympian & Mr. Rupak Kumar Mohapatra also spoke on this occasion. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks and gave information about the weeklong children festival.  

Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Subhashree Sahoo, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty, Sushree Shailani Suman, Sushree Sanjana Mohanty  of PECUC facilitated the programme. This programme will continue till 20^th Nov 2020 and all the competitions and the cultural programme will be live on Facebook page of PECUC (@pecucodisha). The results of the various competitions will be declared in this facebook live programme which will start on 6:30 PM of every evening starting from 14^th November 2020 to 20^th November 2021. The Prizes and Certificates will be sent to the winners by post. On 20^th November a special progrmme will be organized to give the Annual Awards of PECUC. 

Every year People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha observes child rights week by organising “Sisumela”- A special programme for children since 1990. This year due to COVID19 Pandemic different competitions of the 32^nd PECUC Sisumela will be organised on digital platform. Various competitions like Song (Class II to XII or +2 2^nd Year)-3mnts video, Rhyme (Nursery to class I)- 2 mnts video, Modern Dance (Nursery to Class VII)-3 mnts video, Odishi Dance (Class II to X)- within 5 mnts video, Fancy Dress (Nursery to Class VII)-3 mnts video, Fine Art (Class II to IV- Topic- “My Planet”, Class V to VII – “Online Classes and You”, Class VIII to X- “COVID19 & Lockdown”, Class XI – XII or +2 1^st - 2^nd year – “Stop Child Labour”) and Elocutions in both English and Odia (Class II to IV- Topic “Climate Change & Protection of Environment”, Class V to VII- “COVID19 &it impact on School Education”, Class VIII to X – “The Tobacco Epidemic in India”)- 3 mnts Video,   invited videos from the participants. The participants can send their video before or on 25^th October 2021. The details about the rule and regulation will be available in our website www.pecuc.org and also in the facebook page @pecucodisha of PECUC. The participants can send their video to pecuc.sisumela2021@gmail.com or to whatsApp no 9692805854. The fine Art can be sent directly to PECUC’s address by Post. PECUC’s address can be found in PECUC’s website www.pecuc.org and also in the facebook page @pecucodisha of PECUC.

One participant may participate in more than one competition and there is no limitation of maximum participants in a category. Participant must mention his/her name, place, telephone no, school name & age class and name of competition at the beginning of the video and on the drawing. The results will be intimated to the participants. The participants/their guardian must read the terms and conditions carefully before submitting the videos. Any pre-recorded video/youtube uploaded video will not be valid. Singing on Track is allowed. Tanpura/ other instruments may be used if available. Shootings if done on mobile phones it need to be done in landscape mode.

We are also inviting bio data for PECUC’s different Annual Awards. This bio data or CV should be sent to pecucsisumela2020@gmail.com by 1^st November. The awards that will be awarded to the children below 18 years are “Prananatha Pattnaik Memorial Award” for social work, “Dr. P.C. Dash Memorial Sisu Pratibha Award” for all round achievement, “Baji Rout Memorial Award” for bravery and courageous activities, “Sharat Pujari Memorial Awards” to child Artist for acting & “Ketaki Pattnaik Memorial Award” for securing highest mark in 5^th class scholarship examination, “Aadaramani Baral Memorial award to a girl for strong leadership and bringing change. In this occasion other awards that will be given are “Shishusathi Award” for outstanding contribution for children, “Swarup Jena Memorial Award” for outstanding contribution in the field of Journalism, “Abani Baral Memorial Award” for teacher, “Dr. P.C. Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakhya Award” for working towards child protection and development and “Aradhana Nanda Memorial Award” to Women PRI for her outstanding work as people’s representative.

1-Oct-2021: The challenges brought by novel CORONA virus for children are very difficult to cope with. With schools closed and education through online has forced millions of children in to the digital world. The digital safety of the children is no less important than teaching them how to safely cross the road. To create a safe digital environment for children and to protect them from the online predators, to generate awareness & to capacity building of Key stakeholders a district level workshop on children and child protection mechanisms was organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha in collaboration with Foraldralosa Barn & in cooperation with Dist Police, Khordha & DCPU Khordha at SP Conference Hall, Khordha. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the key introduction and shared the purpose of this workshop. She further stated that the children’s safety is of utmost priority and for this initiative should be taken on every level.  Dr. Minakshi Panda, Chairperson, PECUC, presided over the workshop. Joining this programme as Chief Guest Mr. Rajkishore Dora, SP, Khordha said threat to children in the cyber world can be prevented by massive awareness and education of the parents, guardians and different stakeholders. Additional SP Mr. Suresh Kumar Dash gave stress on parental guidance to prevent the crime against children.  Long time engagement of children in cyber world is threatening their safety issue and also increasing missing children as children are easy prey to online predators. So parent should remain aware about their children’s online activities to prevent the crime were stressed by Ms. Banishree Pattnaik, DCPO, Khordha. Ms. Ruby Rout, Country Director, Adoptions Centrum gave emphasis on monitoring the online activities of children by parents and guardians.

In this workshop Dr. Rabindra Narayan Behera, Sr. Technical Director (Retd), National Informatics Centre discussed in details about online safety, cyber crime with case detection methods. He stressed importance on education and awareness can only keep children safe in online. Mr. L. K. Biswal, Retd. Judge, discussed on laws, investigation methods and case proceedings related to cyber crime. An open house discussion was also held on cybercrime & laws & issues related to child protection. The house recommended training to parents, training to teachers, friendly pictorial & video mentioning at local language, training to key stakeholders including police, PRIs, Aanganwadi workers, focus training on investigation on cyber crime to police officials, massive awareness & campaigns, coordination between different departments of Govt. and strict enforcement of laws etc, can provide safety to children in cyber world. Around 100 nos of participants including police, ASHA, AWW, PRI members, teachers etc participated in this workshop. Vote of thanks was given by Ms Alpana Das of PECUC. The programme was facilitated by Binod Das, Debasish Mahapatra, Upama Mohanty, Priyadarshini Swain & Urmila Parida of PECUC.

Bhubaneswar 26/8: A two days state level convention of Ecosavers Youth Network was organized in the Mahanadi Hall of CYSD, DRTC, Bhubaneswar, by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with Floraldralosa Barn. In this convention more than 60 youth representative from 11 districts of Odisha participated. In the beginning Pabitra Sahu, members of Ecosavers Youth Networks gave the welcome address and said only youth can bring many changes in the society and he further said our present work will be reflected in our future. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC by sharing the objective of this convention said youth should come forward to take leadership in different level and should create example by participating nation building process. Joining through online in the inaugural session of this Convention Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC appreciated the work of Ecosavers Youth Network and said they should prepare an action plan for their future activities. Mr. Ruby Rout, Country Director of Adoptionscentrum said the role of youth is very important in creating awareness on COVID19 guidelines and she further advises that the youth should come forward to help others by taking appropriate safety measures for themselves. State President of Ecosavers Youth Network groups Mr. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan virtually participated in the inaugural session of this programme.

In this convention training on different subjects was provided by various expert Resource persons. Dr. Rabindra Narayan Behera, Sr. Technical Director of NIC (Retd) provided training on ‘online safety’, Mr. Deepak Kumar Mishra of Baitarani Initiative gave training on ‘environment and ecology issues, bio diversity its preservation & role of youths’, Mr. Harihar Nayak, former member of Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights on ‘child protection mechanism & role of youths’ and training on ‘understanding gender and role of youth’ by Upama Mohanty of PECUC. The youth representative shared their achievements with each other and also prepared an action plan for future course of action. The second day programme was facilitated by Mr. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan of Ecosavers Youth Network groups. The core team of the Ecosavers Youth Network was also reconstituted in this convention. Jyotishankar Mohanty, Alpana Das, Debasis Mohapatra etc facilitated this programme. 

Bhubaneswar 12 June 2021: Child labour has devastating consequences for a child’s education, skills acquirement and ability to overcome the vicious circle of poverty, incomplete education and fewer job opportunities. Additional economic shocks and school closures caused by COVID-19, combined with income losses among vulnerable families, puts children at even greater risk was said by the guests and speakers on the State Level webinar on the theme for the year  “Act Now: Stop Child Labour” organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), in association with Odisha State Commission for Protectionof Child Rights (OSCPCR) &Labour and ESI Dept. , Govt. of Odisha. Addressing this webinar Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Right (OSCPCR), said that COVID19 pandemic situation has aggravated the child labour situation. With school closed children are being forced to join the  labourforce. To prevent this situation we need to work together.Dr N. Thirumala Naik, IAS, LabourCommissioner, Odisha stated that as per  recent ILO report there is increasing  trend  of Child labourworld over due to COVID 19 pandemic and it has now became a bigger challenges to overcome. But by working together and by creating awareness we can overcome this situation.Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC& Chairperson NACG EVAC, India gave the introductory remark, and   stated that we are passing through a situation when Covid 19 pandemic threatens to reverse years of progress in tackling child labour.We need to do deep analysis of the situation and impact and develop  strategies for achieving our goal to make Odisha a child labour free state .Dr. MinakshiPanda,Chairperson of PECUC presided over the webinar and Anuradha Mohanty,Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address& moderated the webinar.

Addressing this webinar  Mr. Bimal Kumar Sahoo, Director @ Indo- German Focal Point- Prevention & Social Security For India, DGUV & Former Insurance Commissioner, ESIC, Ministry of Labour said to face the situation we need to implement the ACT strictly, promote vaccination, education and poverty alleviation.Mr. Pritikanta Panda, State Programme Manager, Odisha State Child Protection Society, Bhubaneswar said about various schemes and programmes of the State Govt ,and different mechanism to protect children specifically taking care of children who have lost their parents during COVID pandemic. Ms. Neha Naidu, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEFsaid that due to COVID 19 pandemic many have lost their livelihood ,many children have lost their parents and children are unable to go to school .We have to accept the challenge in order to overcome it and prevention has to be the  main  strategy .We need too see that no child remain out of school. Dr. B.B.Acharya ,senior technical consultant ,Department of Labour& ESI told that the COVID pandemic has brought new challenges before us and  hence we need to come out with appropriate  strategies for elimination of child labour .Dr Acharya also mentioned that funds are  available for rescue and rehabilitation of child labour at district level ,which can be utilized for rehabilitation purpose .Participants including, CSOs from different districts of Odisha, women PRI, youth group members, children group members, SMC members, media, teachers participated in this webinar. A video compiling the message given by the children from different parts of Odisha was also shared in this webinar.

Bhubaneswar 31/May/2021: Tabacco causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It also increases risk for tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and problems of the immune system was said by the speakers on the occasion of observation of “World No Tobacco Day 2021” organized on virtual platform by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha in collaboration of Rotary Club of Unique, Bhubaneswar. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the introductory remark and shared the purpose of this programme and also chaired the programme. More than 13 lakh of people are dying due to use of tobacco every year in India and it is spreading like an epidemic and entangling the youth of India in it clutches. Massive awareness is necessary to reduce the use of tobacco was said by Mr. Mohanty.  

Joining as guest speakers Rotarian & famous Eye Specialist Dr. Saroj Kumar Tripathy, said that use of tobacco affects the all organs of our body. It reduces our lung capacity and makes us prone to all types of respiratory diseases. People using tobacco are more vulnerable to the diseases like COVID19. It slowly destroys all our vital organs of the body i.e. stomach, hearts, eyes etc. Dr. Swaroop Mohanty, dental expert said that for getting temporary pleasure of smoking or tobacco use we should not damage our valuable health as tobacco use is one of the major cause of deadly diseases like mouth cancer, lung cancer, heart diseases etc. Through awareness, education we can bring psychosocial and behavioural changes among tobacco users was said by him. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairmen, PECUC spoke on the socio economic impact of tobacco use on the society as a whole and said we all should commit to bring changes in the mindset of the tobacco users. Among others Social Activities like Mr. Pradeep Kumar Behera, Ms. Usharani Behera and Mr. Sukanta Nayak also spoke on this occasion. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks.

International Year for Elimination of child Labour

National Anti Child Labour Day Observed

44 Days Long Campaign to End Child Labour launched

Bhubaneswar 30/04/2021: Child labour deprives children of their childhood, interferes with their ability to attend regular school, and that is mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful. Due to the ongoing COVID 19 situation since one year children are more vulnerable to exploitation, abuse which ultimately leads to child labour, child marriage, child trafficking and other child protection issues. The year 2021 is being observed as International year for the Elimination of Child labour.  It also recognizes the importance of “revitalized global partnerships to ensure the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the implementation of the goals and targets related to the elimination of child labour.”

44 days long campaign starts from 30^th April on the occasion of National Anti Child labour day and culminates on 12th June i.e. World day against Child labour. This year PECUC also launched this campaign & observed National Anti Child Labour Day on 30^th April 2021 in collaboration with Odisha State Commission for Protection of child Rights (OSCPCR) and AEIN on virtual platform.  Joining as Chief Guest Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, OSCPCR inaugurated 44 days long campaign against Child Labour by launching a poster on elimination of Child Labour. In her address she stressed that we all should work together to make Odisha child labour free by 2025, although COVID19 situation poses  biggest challenge to achieve this goal. She said that by ensuring education for all children and implementing RTE Act this can be possible. Mrs. Pradhan gave call to concern officials, NGOS, District Task Force(s), District Child Protection Units, and all other stakeholders to come together and work for total elimination of child labour.

In his keynote address Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC & Chairperson NACG EVAC, India spoke about the elimination of child labour. While referring to the constitution of India, different legislations, & actions by Govts, Non Govt. Organisations, he told that it is experimented that total elimination of child labour is possible. Now time has come to act and work together for developing a child labour free society.  Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address.

Other notable guests on this occasion Mr. P.K. Mohapatra, Joint Labour Commissioner, Labour & ESI Dept., Odisha, spoke about the various provisions, benefits and schemes of labour dept for the construction labours, their families and especially their children. He also stressed appointing child for labour work is now cognizable offence by Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016. And there is also provision for the rehabilitation of rescued child labour in this act. Children should not work rather they should study was said by him. Ms. Neha Naidu, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF, Odisha, emphasized that child labour should not be seen in isolation; it is linked to child marriage, child trafficking and other protection issues.  We have to work continuously and activate women Self Help Groups, Farmer Groups and Gram Panchayat Level Child Protection Committees at the grass root level. There is need for effective implementation of the laws to prevent child labour she added. Dr. Minakshi Panda, Chairperson, PECUC said in this COVID19 situation it is essential to keep children stress free and for this purpose they should be engaged in various social, cultural and game activities online. More than 100 participants including many Govts. & Non Govt. officials, Representatives of District Child Protection Units, Civil Society Organisations, Panchayatiraj Institution Functionaries from different district of Odisha joined in this programme. Vote of thanks was given by Ms. Monalisa Patra of PECUC.

Women are the source of all power and there is unlimited power within them. Many women have shown their potential and capability in different fields and in the process of development their active participation and leadership is vital was said by the eminent guests participating in International Women’s Day celebration at Benupur Kalyan Mandap of Balianta block organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with Rotary Club of Unique, Bhubaneswar, Balianta block administration and EDGH. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the welcome address and spoke about the importance of International Women’s Day. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairman, PECUC also spoke on this occasion. Mr. Adikanda Behera, BDO, Balinata inaugurated the ceremony along with other notable guests Ms. Jayanti Manjari Rath, Former Director, Doordarshan Kendra, Bhubaneswar, Ms. Snigdha Das, BEO, Balianta, Mr. Pradipta Kumar Sahoo, IIC, Balianta, Ms. Arundhati Sahoo, Jilla Parishad Member,  Ms. Lilima Sethi, BLC, OLM, Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC and Ms. Rasmita Patra, Sarpanch, Benupur.

In this occasion awards were given to Ms. Rasmita Patra, Sarpanch, Benupur; Ms. Mamina Ojha, Assistant Teacher, Nuapatna Primary School, Nuapatna, Pratapsasan; Ms. Sujata Karan, ASHA Worker, Brahmansadhangi, Bentapu; Ms. Binodini Pradhan, Supervision, IDCS, Balianta and President Jhinarani Prushti, Secretary Bidulata Barik, MBK Rojalin Sahoo of Bhingarpur Panchayat Women Federation for their outstanding contribution in their line of work. More than 200 women including Women PRI members, Women SHG Group Members, MAS members of Balianat Block participated in this programme.  Ms. Upama Mohanty, Block Coordinator of PECUC gave the vote of thanks. Debasis Mohapatra and Bishnupriya Mahapatra of PECUC facilitated the programme.

Bhubaneswar-3/3/2021:  Nutrition is like Sanjivani and it is essential for the proper growth of the body was said by the eminent speaker participating in the  State Level Consultation on Nutritional Self Dependence  organized at Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with TDH (G) and BMZ and in cooperation with DISHA, & CAUSE. Addressing the inaugural session Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairman, OSCPCR, said there is no alternative to sustainable development and through it nutritional self dependence will be achieved. She further stated that Odisha is the first state to do a budget for nutrition and state govt. is taking various measures to address the issue. Dr. Sipra Mallick,  Member Odisha State Food Commission, said nutrition is essential for the proper growth of children and we all should take initiative to aware  people about the various nutrition related schemes and programmes of the Govt..  Ms. Sulata Deo, Advisor, WCD Dept. of Govt. of Odisha informed about the various schemes and programmes of the Govt. especially Sopan Schemes. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC gave the welcome address and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC, shared the purpose of this workshop. He briefed the work of PECUC and its initiative towards achieving nutritional self dependency in its project area. He also facilitated the inaugural session.

Other guest speakers Madhumita Das, Consultant, WCD Dept., Govt. of Odisha, Dr. Biswaranjan Padhi, Former Joint Director of Nutrition, Health and Family Welfare Department of Govt. of Odisha & Deepak Kumar Mishra, State Coordinator, Baitarani Initiative discussed on local ecological food & its nutritional value, regular diet & balance diet, scope for improvement, health, wellness and disease management, nutrition, stress & immunity and different nutritional related schemes and programme of Govt. etc. This session was facilitated by Mr. Binayak Swain, Social Worker. On this occasion a seed exhibition was organized. To fight malnutrition many recommendation were given by the participants in this Consultation. A project is being implemented at 6 villages of Keonjhar and 16 villages of Sundargarh district and there the farmers are using traditional local seeds and organic method to increase production to fight the malnutrition. A video regarding this project was also displayed. Around 100 participants from different districts including farmer, SHG leaders, members of civil society groups, Govt. institutions and academicians participated in this consultation. Harihar Balabantaray, Samar Kumar Das & Monalisa Patra of PECUC facilitated this Consultation.  

Bhubaneswar 28/12: Children can express themselves freely in a fearless atmosphere and it is necessary to create such atmosphere for them to prevent child sexual abuse. It is also necessary to incorporate life skill education in the school curriculum and counselling in family level to increase awareness was said by the expert joined in the dissemination workshop on child sexual abuse and online safety. The study was done in the Khordha district.

People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha in collaboration with Adoptionscentrum organised this workshop on Child Sexual Abuse and Online Safety on virtual platform. More than 70 participants joined in this workshop. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson PECUC presided over the workshop and Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose. She also gave a brief introduction about the study which was done lockdown period. Ms. Ruby Rout, Country Director of Adoptionscenturm presented the finding of the report. She said not only girls but boys are also sexually abused and the problem is the children can’t express it freely to parents and guardians. The problem increased during the time of lockdown due to the increased involvement of children in the online. For this awareness is necessary and also essential to create a fear free environment for children.

Joining as panellist Smt. Amita Pattnaik, Joint Director, OSEPA said that more children are studying through online. So the teachers should interact frequently with the children and they should bridge the gap and should try to raise their confidence so that the children can discuss their problem with them. Mr. Pritikant Panda, Program Manager, SCPS, Odisha discussed about the different facilities available in districts for the children. He encouraged the children to be brave and to use internet safely by taking all the online safety measures.  Smt. Madhumita Das, Consultant, W&CD Dept. Govt. of Odisha discussed about the POCSO act and also stressed importance on life skill education in School. She also said awareness begins from home and the parents should be conscious about it. Mrs. Biswsewari  Mohanty, Senior Advocate discussed in details about various legal aids and laws that are available for protection of children. Parents should build a healthy relationship with their children so that children can express themselves freely was stressed in this workshop.

Bhubaneswar 26/12: People’s cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha started an online helpline for children and for this purpose PECUC has launched a website www.pecuchelpline.com & helpline whatsapp number for children is 7849010021, landline – 0674-2352278 and email_id- pecuc.counselling2020@gmail.com. This service will be available from 11 am to 1 pm from Monday to Friday. Joining as Chief Guest Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, Odisha State commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) inaugurated the website and along with she also inaugurated the workshop on “Ensuring Safe and Quality Education for all Children”.  She praised the efforts of PECUC for taking such a step for children as it is the need of the hour. She also stressed that all the departments of Government, Civil Society Organisations and OSCPCR should work in coordination for ensuring safe and quality education for children.

This workshop was organised in collaboration with AEIN and more than 70 participants from different districts of Odisha participated in this workshop. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson, PECUC presided over this workshop. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC, gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this workshop and she also briefed about the PECUC’s online helpline for children. She said this helpline will help children, parents, guardian, care giver etc who are in need of counselling support. She also said PECUC and Sikhyasandhan is working in 50 villages of Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj for last three years on a project campaign to ensure right to education of children to all children. A video film compiling the achievements of this project was also shared in this workshop.       

A panel discussion on “Ensuring safe and quality education for all children” was also held in this workshop. Joining as guests of the panel Mr. Biswanath Tarai, Joint Director, OSEPA, Govt. of Odisha, shared about the different measures taken by the State Govt. for the education of the children during COVID19 pandemic.  Mr. Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Member of Niti Aayog Standing Committee on Child Rights and Protection & Secretary, BKS, Ranchi, Treasurer NACG EVAC, India, said that we all should work together to ensure safe and quality education for all. Ms. Madhumita Das, Consultant, WCD Dept. Govt. of Odisha discussed about the importance of early childhood care education. In his concluding remark Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC said that this helpline is a new initiative of PECUC and it success depends upon the help and cooperation of all. He also stressed that it is the responsibility of all to stop violence against children. He informed that PECUC has mainstreamed more than 35,000 child labour after rescuing them. Safe and quality education for all children will also help in eradicating child labour was emphasized by him. Ms. Ratna Dash Treasurer PECUC gave the vote of thanks.

Fourth day of 31^st PECUC Sisumela

Child Artiste Smaranika Naik got “Pilanka Akshaya Samman-2020”

Tribute to Legendary Music Director, Singer & Lyricist Akshaya Mohanty by children

Bhubaneswar (17/11): On 17^th November a special musical night “Pilanka Akhaya” was organized on virtual platform as a tribute to the Legendary Singer, Lyricist & Music Director Late Akshaya Mohanty. In a unique way children paid homage to the Icon of Odia Music on his 18^th Death Anniversary.

Eminent Music Director & Singer Sj. Laxmikant Palit, Singer Sj. Bibhu Das & Ms. Bandita Das and Senior Artist Banchhanidhi Pattnaik, were the guest of the evening. They through lights on the different aspects of the life of the legendary Singer. Among other Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC, Rotarian Mr. Dibya Ranjan Dash of Rotary Club of UNIQUE, Journalist Mr. Madhabananda Behura also spoke and paid their homage to the Legendary Singer. Mrs. Minakshi Panda, Chairman, PECUC presided over the ceremony. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC announced the name of the winner of the Pilanka Akshaya Samman Award 2020. People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) is giving this award to a singer below 18 years of age since year 2003 was said by Mr. Mohanty.

Singer of the young generation Smaranika Nayak honoured with prestigious ‘Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2020’.

Children sang everlasting songs of Akshaya Mohanty like “Jajabar Mana Mora”, “Smruti Tume Shrabana”, “Sei Dipa Achhi”, “E jibane Mo Jibane”, “Chandra mali hase”, “Chithi Nuhein Seta”, “Nishi Bijane”, “Abhimanini  e”, “Phur Kina Udigala”, “Are Laja Lage”, “Ei Je Bana Lata, Pahada” etc. The singers were Smaranika Nayak, Yash Mohanty, Akanshya Sahoo, Nirbisesh Sahoo, Lipsa Mishra, Tanishree Jena, Rudramadhab Mandal, Shouryasnata Mishra, Sidhishna Bindhani, Tanushree Jena, and Satwik Samparpan. The names of the winner of the song competition were announced. Today’s programme was organized by PECUC in joint collaboration with Rotary Club of UNIQUE, Bhubaneswar. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Ms. Sushree Shailani Suman, Mr. Dharmanand Sundarray,  Ms Monalisa Patra, Debasis Mahapatra etc. of  PECUC conducted the programme. 

The weeklong 31^th Children’s festival on virtual platform of People’s Cultural centre (PECUC) ,a leading voluntary organization of Odisha has reached its closing day adding another glorious chapter to the history of PECUC Sisumela. Many talented children from Odisha and from other states participated and showed their talent in this Children Festival.  Addressing the closing ceremony Chief Guest Justice Sj Birakishor Mishra, Honourable former Justice of Odisha High Court, said that children should dream big and also should work towards achieving the same. Mr. Saumya Ranjan Pattnaik, Editor, The Sambad, Former Parliamentarian and present MLA advised the children to remain grateful to their parents and to take care of them in the old age and the parents also should consider their child’s interest. He further said that the children should be courageous and truthful in all their action.  Famous ollywood actress Ms. Anu Chaudhury was also present on this occasion and said that children should be nurtured properly for their all round developmet. Ms. Sulochana Das, commissioner for persons with disability said that in this stressful COVID19 situation the children should be kept safe and the parents and guardians should encourage children to develop their inner talent. They emphasized that all children deserve happy childhood and they should be encouraged to follow their dream. Mr. Sahadev Sahoo, Former Chief Secretary of Govt of Odisha emphasized on the safety of the children during this pandemic situation.

This programme was presided over by President, Sisumela Committee and Renowned Journalist Mr. Prodosh Kumar Pattnaik and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the introductory note. Dr. Minakhi Panda, chairperson PECUC also spoke on this occasion. Vote of Thanks was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC.

In this week long children festival talk on different relevant subject was given by various experts like Doctor Sarojini Sarangi, Gynecologist, Doctor Swaroop Mohanty, Dentist and Ms. Madhumita Das, Consultant Women and Child Development of Govt. of Odisha.

On this occasion children and adults personalities were honoured with many prestigious annual awards for outstanding performance in different fields. Child Artist  Ayusha Pattnaik of khordha received “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2020”  for acting, Adarsha Das of Bhubaneswar  received “Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2020”  for all round achievement, Purnima Giri of Kendrapada received “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2020” for bravery and courageous activity,  Lorismita Dalai of Phulnakhara  was given “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2020” for social work, change maker and leader Chanchala Pujari  of Koraput received  “Adaramoni Boral Memorial Award 2020” for her leadership.

Senior Journalist Sj Papu Mohanty  was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2020” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, where as “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2020” to Retd. Teacher Kalicharan Jaysingh  for his contribution in the field of teaching,  “Sisusathi Award 2020” to Sj. Rajani Ranjan Dash for outstanding contribution in the field of children litreture,  “Dr. P. C. Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2020” to Smt Sneha Mishra for his social work,  Smt. Jayashree Nayak, Sarapanch Bhingarpur of Balianta block  was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2020” for her outstanding work as a people’s representative in the field of women and child & Sushree Shailani Suman received Best Volunteer Award for providing technological support during COVID19. In every evening colourful cultural programme was performed by children of Odisha, Assam and Manipur.

In this week long children festival help and cooperation was provided by Rotary Club RCB Unique, Adoption Centrum, TDH[G], AEIN, Herbage Herbals, IMFA etc. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Panu Behera, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty, Monalisa Patra , Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Upama Mohanty, Dharmanada Sundarray, Dr. Mitali Mohanty, Satyasundar, Debasish, Atishnu, Biswajit, Pritam, Saswati etc. of PECUC conducted the programme.

State Level Youth Convention for ending abuse, exploitation, and all form of violence and torture against children organized…

19^th November is being observed as the   “World day for prevention of child abuse” all over the world. “SDG – Target 16.2 - End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence and torture against children by 2030 – leaving no one behind” is taken as the theme for the year 2020. Child abuse is a major cause of concern, which creates barrier for free growth of children. Adding to different form of exploitation, exclusion issues have played major role in damaging the child hood of millions of children.  Violence against children takes many forms i.e children in armed conflict, child labour, street children, prevention of ICTS Danger, disabilities, child trafficking, Corporal punishment, sale of children, sexual abuse, child prostitution, neglect, child sex tourism, malnutrition,  bullying, child pornography, harmful traditional practices, abduction, early and forced marriage  etc. The WHO estimated that up to 1 billion minors between the ages of 2 and 17 years of age have endured violence either physical, emotional or sexual.

To mark the occasion   a “ State Level Youth Convention for ending Abuse, Exploitation and all form of Violence & Torture against children” was organized on virtual platform by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha. Mr. Satyajit Mohanty, IPS, DG Fire Services was the Chief Guest of the convention. Addressing the convention Mr. Mohanty said that COVID19 has created a very stressful situation for children. Around 150 crores of children have been affected by it. In this stressful situation it is the responsibility of all stakeholders including media and NGOs to work together for preventing violence and crime against children was stressed by him. Mr. Pradeep Kumar Biswal, IAS (Retd) spoke about the role of youth in achieving SDG-Target-16.2. He further stated that active participation of youth can help in achieving SDG. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC & Chairperson of NACG EVAC, India in his key note address while focusing on the SDG 16.2, emphasised on each ones responsibility to achieve the Global Goal by 2030 & said that massive awareness & responsive, sensitive action is necessary to prevent all form of violence against children. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Chairmen, PECUC said everybody should work together to create a violence free environment for children.  Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this convention. Speakers emphasized to stop all form of child abuse, exploitation and violence in their talk and for this all need to work together. Massive awareness is required to eliminate child labour, prevent child abuse and end violence against children was stressed by speakers. Youth Panellists Sushree Shailani Suman, Chief Editor, Research Edit, Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, President, Ecosavers Youth Network, Milonee Mishra, Core team Member, State level Children’s Forum, Yash Mohanty, St. Xaviers, High School, BBSR, Suvendu Kumar Das, President, State Level Children’s Forum & Sasmita Munda, Core Team Member, Ecosavers Youth Network also shared their views and opinions in this Convention amongst other youths.  A large number of youths from different districts of Odisha participated in this convention.

Ms. Ratna Dash, Ms. Monalisa Patra, Mr. Biswajit Mohanty of PECUC coordinated the programme.

Bhubaneswar – Children should dream big and they should work towards achieving their dream. Parents, teachers and guardians should inspire them to fulfill their dream was opined by the eminent dignitaries present in the inaugural ceremony of 31^st  year Sisumela (Children festival week) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization at Bhubaneswar. There should be encouragement and inspiration in every spear to bring into forefront the inner talents of the children was said by them.  

 31^st PECUC sisumela was inaugurated on the occasion of Children’s Day in Bhubaneswar. The inaugural ceremony was held in virtual platform due to COVID19 situation and keeping in mind children’s safety. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Das, IAS, Director of Culture Department, Govt. Odisha inaugurated the ceremony in presence of   Eminent Actress & PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of child rights Bhoomika Dash, Sports Person & PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for Promotion of Right of the Children to Play Anshika Routray, Olympian Ms. Anuradha Biswal etc by lighting a lamp. Children should be given freedom then only they can be developed as responsible person in their future was said by Mr. Das.

Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik, Senior Journalist and President of PECUC Sisumela committee presided over the over the inaugural function and said PECUC is working since last 30 years to bring smile in the face of every children. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and shared the information about the weeklong festival of Sisumela. Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood and it is the responsibility of all to create such environment was said by Mr. Mohanty. Ms. Minakhi Panda, Chairperson PECUC said children should be patient and remain safe during this crisis period and she encouraged them to continue their creative work.  Eminent Actress Bhoomika Dash, discussed about the different challenges the children are facing due to this COVID19 situation and encouraged the children to engage themselves in various creative work. Sports person Anshika Routray, emphasized that children should keep themselves safe and should work towards achieving their dream. Among other Ms. Anuradha Biswal, Olympian said a happy childhood is the right of every child. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks.

Ratna Dash, Jyotishankar Mohanty, Prashant Kumar Mallick of PECUC facilitated the programme. This programme will continue till 20^th Nov 2020 and all the competitions and the cultural programme will be live on Facebook page of PECUC (@pecucodisha). The results of the various competitions will be declared in this facebook live programme which will start on 6:30PM of every evening starting from 14^th November 2020 to 20^th November 2020. The Prizes and Certificates will be sent to the winners by post. On 20^th November a special progrmme will be organized to give the Annual Awards of PECUC. 

Tech Mahindra Foundation and People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha distributed dry ration to 350 COVID19 pandemic affected needy families. 114 families of Kujimahal and Sundarpur village of Bhubaneswar block, 38 families of Nabati village of Balianta block, 128 families of slums of BMC and 70 Artist received the support. Puppet organisation of Odisha identified the street theatre artists. The families were supported 10 kgs of rice, 1 kg of Dal, 1 kg of sugar, 3 Kgs of flat rice, 2 lts of oil, 5 kgs of wheat flour, 100 gms of turmeric power, 100 gms of Phutan, 1 kg salt and 2 packets of Biscuits. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mr. Rasmi Ranjan Mohanty of Tech Mahindra Foundation and Mr. Prashant Pattnaik, Theatre Director, Puppet were also present on the different occasion and distributed the relief to the needy. Mr. Jyoti Shankar Mohanty of PECUC facilitated the entire process.    

ପ୍ରତ୍ଯକ ବର୍ଷ ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୪ ରୁ ୨୦ ତାରିଖ ପ୍ରର୍ଯ୍ଯନ୍ତ ୧୯୯୦ ମସିହା ରୁ ରାଜ୍ଯ ର ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ୱେଛାସେବୀ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠାନ ପିପୁଲସ୍‍ କଲଚରାଲ୍‍ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍‍) ଦ୍ୱାରା ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ସପ୍ତାହ ରେ ପିଲାମାନ ଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ସ୍ୱତନ୍ତ୍ର କାର୍ଯ୍ଯକ୍ରମ “ଶିଶୁମେଳା” ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହୋଇ ଆସୁଛି I ଚଳିତ ବର୍ଷ  କୋଭିଡ ୧୯ ମହାମାରୀ ପରିପ୍ରେକ୍ଷୀ ରେ ୩୧ ତମ ଶିଶୁ ମେଳା ର ର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା ଡିଜିଟାଲ ମଂଚରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବI ଶିଶୁମେଳା ର ଆୟୋଜନ ସମ୍ବଧରେ ଅଧିକ ତଥ୍ଯ ନଭେମ୍ବର ମାସ ପ୍ରଥମ ସପ୍ତାହ ରେ ପ୍ରକାଶିତ ହେବ I ଶିଶୁ ମେଳାରେ  ଆୟୋଜିତ ହେଉଥିବା ସମସ୍ତ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା  ଯଥା ସଙ୍ଗୀତ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ)-୩ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ମଧ୍ଯରେ, ରାଇମସ୍/ଆବୃତି ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ପ୍ରଥମ)- ୨ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ଭିଡିଓ, ଆଧୁନିକ ନୃତ୍ୟ (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୪ ର୍ଥ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ)- ୩ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ଭିଡିଓ, ଓଡିଶୀ ନୃତ୍ୟ (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ)- ୪ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ଭିଡିଓ, କୌତୁକ ପୋଷାକ (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ)- ୩ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ଭିଡିଓ, ଚିତ୍ରାଙ୍କନ (୨ୟ ରୁ ୪ର୍ଥ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ବିଷୟ ବସ୍ତୁ – “ମୋ ସ୍ୱପ୍ନ ର ବିଦ୍ଯାଳୟ ଖେଳ ପଡିଆ”, ୫ମ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ- “ସ୍ୱଛ ଓ ନିରାପଦ ପରିବେଶ”, ୮ମ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ-“ଜଳ ହିଁ ଜିବନ”) ଓ ଉଭୟ ଓଡିଆ ଓ ଇଂରାଜୀ ରେ ବକ୍ତୃତା ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୫ମ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ବିଷୟ ବସ୍ତୁ- “କୋଭିଡ ୧୯ : ବନ୍ଦ ସମୟ ରେ ମୋର ଅନୁଭୁତି”, ୮ମ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ- “କୋଭିଡ ୧୯  ସମୟ ରେ ଅନଲାଇନରେ  ଶିକ୍ଷା”)- ୩ ମିନିଟ୍‍ ଭିଡିଓ ପଠାଇବାକୁ ହେବ I ଭାଗ ନେବାକୁ ଇଛୁକ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନେ ସେମାଙ୍କର ଭିଡିଓ ନଭେମ୍ବର ୭ ତାରିଖ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ପଠାନ୍ତୁ I ଚିତ୍ରାଙ୍କନ ସ୍କାନ୍‍ କରି ବା ଫଟୋ ଉଠାଇ ପଠାଇ ପାରିବେ I ଏ ବିଷୟ ରେ ସବିଶେଷ ବିବରଣୀ ପିକକ୍‍ର ୱେବସାଇଟ୍‍ www.pecuc.org ଓ ପିକକ୍‍ ର ଫେସ୍ବୁକ୍‍ ପେଜ୍‍ @pecucodisha ରେ ମିଳି ପାରିବ I ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ଅନୁସାରେ ଶିଶୁ, ସବଜୁନିୟର, ଜୁନିୟର ଏବଂ ସିନିୟର ଗ୍ରୁପରେ ବିଭକ୍ତ କରାଯାଇଛି । ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନେ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଭିଡିଓ କୁ pecucsisumela2020@gmail.com କିମ୍ବା ହ୍ୱାଟ୍ସ ଆପ୍‍ ନମ୍ବର ୭୮୪୮୦୪୪୮୯୯ କୁ ପଠାଇବାକୁ ଅନୁରୋଧ ।       

ଜଣେ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା ରେ ଭାଗ ନେଇ ପାରିବ । ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନେ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ନାମ୍, ଠିକଣା, ଟେଲିଫୋନ ନମ୍ବର, ସ୍କୁଲର ନାମ୍, ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ଓ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା ର ନାମ ଭିଡିଓ ର ଆରମ୍ବ ରେ କହିବେ ଏବଂ ଡ୍ରଇଂ ସିଟ୍‍ ରେ ମଧ୍ଯ ଲେଖିବେ । ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀତା ର ଫଳାଫଳ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ଜଣାଇ ଦିଆଯିବ। ପ୍ରାଇଜ୍‍ ଓ ସାର୍ଟିଫିକେଟ୍‍  ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ଙ୍କର  ଠିକଣାରେ ପଠାଇ ଦିଆଯିବ। କୌଣସି ଅସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ ତଥ୍ଯ ଥିବା ଭିଡିଓ କୁ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରାଯିବ ନାହଁ । ଆଗରୁ ରେକର୍ଡ କରାଯାଇଥିବା ଭିଡିଓ କିମ୍ବା ଇୟୁ ଟ୍ଯୁବ ରେ ପକାଯାଇଥିବା ଭିଡିଓ କୁ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରାଯିବ ନାହିଁ । ଟ୍ରାକ ରେ ଗୀତ ବୋଲିବା ଓ ତାନପୁରା କିମ୍ବା ଅନ୍ୟ ବାଦ୍ୟଯନ୍ତ୍ର ମଧ୍ଯ ବ୍ଯବହାର କରାଯାଇ  ପାରିବ । ମୋବାଇଲର କେବଳ ଲ୍ଯାଣ୍ଡସ୍କେପ୍‍ ମୋଡ୍‍ରେ ଭିଡିଓ ଉତ୍ତୋଳନ କରିବେ।        

ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପିକକ୍ ର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ବାର୍ଷିକ ସମ୍ମାନ ପାଇଁ ନାମାଙ୍କନ ଆହ୍ଵାନ କରାଯାଉଛି ।  ନାମାଙ୍କନ ବା ମନୋନୟନ ପତ୍ର ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧ ତାରିଖ ମଧ୍ୟରେ pecucsisumela2020@gmail.com ରେ ପହଞ୍ଚିବା ଆବଶ୍ୟକ। ୧୮ ବର୍ଷରୁ କମ୍ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ସମାଜ ସେବା ପାଇଁ ‘ପ୍ରାଣନାଥ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ସବୁ କ୍ଷେତ୍ର ରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନିୟ ସଫଳତା ପାଇଁ “ଡଃ ପି॰ ସି॰ ଦାସ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ଶିଶୁ ପ୍ରତିଭା ସମ୍ମାନ”,  ସାହସିକତା ପାଇଁ ‘ବାଜିରାଉତ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ଅଭିନୟ ପାଇଁ ‘ଶରତ ପୂଜାରୀ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ୫ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ବୃତ୍ତି ପରୀକ୍ଷାରେ ସର୍ବୋଚ ନମ୍ବର ରଖିଥିବା ଛାତ୍ରଛାତ୍ରୀ ଙ୍କୁ ‘କେତକୀ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’ ଦିଆଯିବ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପ୍ରତ୍ୟକ ବର୍ଷପରି ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଲେଖୁଥିବା କିମ୍ବା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକରୁ ଥିବା ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ ‘ଶିଶୁସାଥି ସମ୍ମାନ’ ସାମ୍ବାଦିକତା ପାଇଁ “ସ୍ୱରୂପ ଜେନା ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିକ୍ଷାକ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନୀୟ ଅବଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ  ଶିକ୍ଷକଙ୍କୁ “ଅବନୀ ବରାଳ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ବା ବିକାଶ ପାଇଁ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରତ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ “ଡଃ ପି॰ ସି॰ ଦାସ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ସୁରକ୍ଷା ସମ୍ମାନ”, ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ନିର୍ବାଚିତ ମହିଳା ପ୍ରତିନିଧି ଙ୍କୁ ତାଙ୍କର ଉଲ୍ଲେଖନୀୟ ଅବଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ  “ଆରାଧନା ନନ୍ଦ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ” ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯିବI

ଚଳିତ ବର୍ଷ ପିକକ୍‍ ର ପୁର୍ବତନ ଅଧ୍ଯକ୍ଷା ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ଆଦରମଣୀ ବରାଳ ଙ୍କ ସ୍ମୃତି ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ଯରେ ସମ୍ମାନ ବଳିଷ୍ଟ ନେତୃତ୍ୱ ତଥା ସମାଜ ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତନକାରୀ ୧୮ ବର୍ଷ ରୁ କମ ଜଣେ ଝିଅ ଙ୍କୁ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯିବ I   

A tribute meeting on the memory of Prof. Adaramani Boral, a great social worker & educationalist was organized on virtual platform on the 11th Oct 2020. Prof. Boral was a reputed educationist, writer, speaker, an eminent social worker, theatre & radio artist. She influenced and inspired many people, who came in contact with her was said by many eminent personalities of various field by joining the tribute meeting organized in the memory or Prof. Adaramani Boral. She truly justified her name by her works. She was born in the year of 1938 but was a way ahead of her time in her thought. She passed away on the night of 24 the September 2020 at the age of 82. Around 150 people from Odisha and outside state & country  joined this meeting. Prof Boral was the Chairperson of People’s Cultural Centre [PECUC] , a leading voluntary organization in the state  since 2005. This meeting was chaired by Eminent Journalist Mr. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik and Ms. Anuradha Mohanty &  Ms. Ahuti Boral moderated this meeting. One minute of silent prayer was held in her memory.  

Welcome address was given by her son Prof Abhas Kumar Boral. Remembering her Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC said she was a source of inspiration for all and also an extraordinary and rare personality.  Mr Niranjan Sahoo ,IAS , RDC and former Khordha dist collector said that she was a person having   self confidence , a strong personality , a motherly figure. Dr. Lelin Mohanty, Editor Odisha Review & Advocate said she was unique person and her voice has the power to influence others. Former MLA Adikant Sethi said she was always ready to support and inspire others. Among others Dr. Amiya Kumar Mohanty, Ruby Rout, Dr. Seba Mohapatra,  Mrs Kasturi Mahapatra, Dr. Minakhi Panda, Dr Snehaprabha Samantaray, Debu Majumdar, Arbind Mitra, Subodh Pattnaik, Dr. Sanghamitra Mishra, Jayakhushna Hota, Dr. Shashanka Shekhar Ratha, Dr. Biswamohini Mangaraj, Mahendra Kumar Mohanty, Professor Dr. Iswariprasad Badapanda, Professor Shubhendu Mohanty, Sabita Nayak, etc. were spoke about her. Her son in law Pratap Kumar Sahu, Grand Daughter Purbhasha and grandson in law Rahul ,Grand son Poonscha paid their homage by discussing about the different aspect of her personalities. It was decided in the meeting that a souvenir will be published in her memory and steps shall be taken to make her  statue in Khordha.                       

Bhubaneswar (30/09/2020): Awareness amongst Parents and Conscious efforts on by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), government functionaries,child protection workforce and all stakeholders is essential to prevent child trafficking, said Director General of Prisons Santosh Kumar Upadhyay in a webinar of Child Protection Stakeholders on Prevention of Child Trafficking organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with Girls Advocacy Alliance, RAIDS, Terre Des Hommes, NL. Upadhyay further stated that allurement is the major cause of these types of crime and covid-19 situation has aggravated the situation due to increasing involvement of children in social media. He emphasized that online safety of the children and awareness is essential to prevent the crime.

The webinar was attended by 100 participants from different districts of Odisha. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, secretary PECUC gave the welcome address and also shared the purpose of this webinar. He stated that in the current pandamic scenario the vulnerability of the children has increased everywhere and it is necessary that we all should do what is in the best interest of the child. Dr.Minakhi Panda, Director PECUC moderated the session. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the vote of thanks.

Subrat Kumar Panda, TDH, NL informed that we all need to work to provide equal opportunity to young girls and now in different states they have formed alliance in national and state level to implement the programme and bring down child marriage which is a form of child trafficking.

A Panel Discussion was held on “Covid 19 Pandemic : Preventing Child Trafficking in Odisha context”. Madhumita Das, Consultant, WCD, Government of Odisha, Bisweswari Mohanty, Advocate, Banishree Pattnaik, DCPO, Khordha Manabendranath Mandal,SLARTC/ ATSEC,& Thematic Head, Child trafficking, NACG EVAC India joined as panelist and discussed on the various aspect of child trafficking.

Pannelists discussed various legislative provisions, schemes and programmes of Government and various actions by different stakeholders. Panelists and Speakers in the open house emphasised on community level child protection mechanism & institutions, stringent legislation and law enforcement, a state action plan for prevention of child trafficking, constitution and strengthening of village level child protection committees.

They also suggested like psychosocial counseling to parents & children, strengthening families, their income level, online safety measures, proper implementation of law, proper rehabilitation & integration, proper registration of FIR, reporting of the cases, vigilant of the stakeholders at the grass root level, proper cooperation, coordination and linkage with different department of the government is essential to bring down the crime.

A vigilant community can prevent child trafficking as told by speakers too.

Bhubaneswar(25/09/2020): Prof.Adaramani Boral, chairperson of People's Cultural Centre (PECUC), the leading socio cultural organisation passes away on the night of September 25, 2020. She was 82 years of age. Prof.Boral was a reputed educationalist, writer, an eminent social worker and theatre & radio artist. She was also a known figure, a milestone of Odisha Modern Theatre, a young girl of that time who could dare to come and join modern theatre in Cuttack, acted against legendary Sarat Pujari, a very known Radio drama voice. Prof. Adaramani Boral was the wife of eminent educationist Prof. Late Abani Baral. Prof. Baral was the member of District Child Welfare Committee of Khordha. Entire PECUC family expressed their deepest condolences on her heavenly demise. May her soul rest in peace. Our deepest tribute, said Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, secretary, PECUC.

Bhubaneswar (30/08/2020): Central Government must make more budget allocation for implementation of National Education Policy 2020 said Mr. Samir Ranjan Dash, Minister, School & Mass Education, Odisha. Addressing as Chief Guest in a Webinar on “National Education Policy: Impact on School Education in Odisha”,  Mr. Dash emphasized that the ratio of allocation should be 80:20 percent by centre and state respectively for budgeted  expenditure. 

The webinar was organized by Odisha Alliance for Child Rights (OACR), National Action and Coordination Group for Ending Violence Against Children, India, Odisha chapter and People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC). More than 300 participants attended  the webinar.

Presiding over this webinar Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC, Chairperson, NACG EVAC India & Chairman, OACR, told that the main purpose of this webinar is to discuss various features of the the policy, its impact on school education in Odisha and how best we can utilize the policy for improving the school education in Odisha. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and Mr. Prakash Rath, OLS, Vice Chair of OACR, Convener of NACG Odisha moved the vote of thanks in this webinar.

Joining this webinar as guest and panelist, Mr. Gangadhar Sahoo, OAS, Director, SCERT said that this education policy has focused on 8 key sectors of the education including early childhood care & education, foundation learning, Governance model, curriculum reform, teachers education, vocational education etc.  Dr. (prof) Sitakanta Mishra, Associate Professor, Pandit Dindayal Petroleum University said implementation and restructuring of the education is a big responsibility as the education system aims to create better and responsive citizenery. Dr. (Prof) Ajit Mohanty, Former Professor in Psychology, JNU  said implementing the education in the mother tongue and other regional language is a welcome step and an opportunity for Odisha as Odisha has an pre defined model  in it. Odisha should focus mother tongue as medium of instruction till 8^th standard. Dr.(Prof) Pritish  Chandra Acharya, Regional Institute Of Education, Odisha focusing on curriculum said that both curricular and extracurricular are given importance in the NEP 2020 and which will help to retain children in school. Dr. Amiya Mohanty, President, FISE & National Convenor, Joint Forum for Movement on Education said there is a need to develop adequate infrastructure and atleast 10% of GDP should be spent for education in the budget. Dr Mohanty also spoke for strengthening early childhood care & education, Aanganwadi Centres. Prof. Dr. Kumarbar Dash, Former Vice Chancellor of FM University emphasized on inclusiveness and quality teacher. Smt. Kasturi  Mohapatra, Former Chairman of OSCPCR,  Former Chairperson of State  Disability Commission, Odisha said about disability issues in the NEP 2020 and said that adequate infrastructure  and trained teachers are required to address the issues of children with disability. Mr. Prakash Mohanty, General Secretary, OSSTA, while welcoming the policy for inclusion of early childhood education with school discussed on curriculum restructuring and teacher’s training. Dr Sumitra Mohanty & Ms Monalisa Patra conducted the programme.

Ecosavers – the  Youth Network, Odisha organised a state level Youth Camp on virtual platform. Around 75 youths from different parts of Odisha participated in this webinar.  

Speaking on the occasion Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC appreciated the  remarkable works of Eco Saver youth network members  to save our ecology. He also discussed about the qualities of a  leader . Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC  described the roles and responsibilities of youth to bring  change in our society specially youths have more responsibility towards our environment. Ms. Sushree Shailani Suman, Chief Editor, Research Edit spoke on the dreadful consequences of climate change. She gave many examples like water crisis, drying of water bodies, melting of ice in polar region which leads our ecology on a dangerous path.  

Mr Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, President of Ecosavers - the Youth Network Odisha presided over the convention & he is re-elected as President of state Ecosavers youth network till Dec 2021. Ms Kalpana Nayak,Keonjhar  & Mr. Pabitra Sahoo. Kendrapada were elected as Vice-presidents.  Mr. Jaganath Naik ,Jadichatar of Keonjhar , Sasmita Munda,Patna Block, Ms. Geeta Mohapatra  & Mr. Amarnath Sahoo from Khordha District , Mr. Kartik Ch. Das ,Bhogarai, Balasore, Mr. Debendra Podha ,Sonepur, Ms Pinki Badaseth , Kandhamal, Mr. Santosh Naik , Bargarh, Ms Sangya Sahoo , Sambalpur & Mr. Dayanidhi Rana , Bolangir were elected  to the State Core team . 

People’s Cultural Centre( PECUC), a leading civil society organization and Ecosavers – the  Youth Network , jointly organised this State level Youth Camp in collaboration with TDH[G]& BMZ . Newly elected President Mr. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan gave vote of thanks to all. 

Ecosavers – the  Youth Network, Odisha organised a state level Youth Camp on virtual platform. Around 75 youths from different parts of Odisha participated in this webinar.  

Speaking on the occasion Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC appreciated the  remarkable works of Eco Saver youth network members  to save our ecology. He also discussed about the qualities of a  leader . Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC  described the roles and responsibilities of youth to bring  change in our society specially youths have more responsibility towards our environment. Ms. Sushree Shailani Suman, Chief Editor, Research Edit spoke on the dreadful consequences of climate change. She gave many examples like water crisis, drying of water bodies, melting of ice in polar region which leads our ecology on a dangerous path.  

Mr Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, President of Ecosavers - the Youth Network Odisha presided over the convention & he is re-elected as President of state Ecosavers youth network till Dec 2021. Ms Kalpana Nayak,Keonjhar  & Mr. Pabitra Sahoo. Kendrapada were elected as Vice-presidents.  Mr. Jaganath Naik ,Jadichatar of Keonjhar , Sasmita Munda,Patna Block, Ms. Geeta Mohapatra  & Mr. Amarnath Sahoo from Khordha District , Mr. Kartik Ch. Das ,Bhogarai, Balasore, Mr. Debendra Podha ,Sonepur, Ms Pinki Badaseth , Kandhamal, Mr. Santosh Naik , Bargarh, Ms Sangya Sahoo , Sambalpur & Mr. Dayanidhi Rana , Bolangir were elected  to the State Core team . 

People’s Cultural Centre( PECUC), a leading civil society organization and Ecosavers – the  Youth Network , jointly organised this State level Youth Camp in collaboration with TDH[G]& BMZ . Newly elected President Mr. Stuti Ranjan Pradhan gave vote of thanks to all. 

Bhubaneswar (18.07.2020): Civil society organisation plays a very important role in the development of society was the opinion of the dignitaries’ who attended the virtual meeting organised on the occasion of 30 years anniversary of PECUC.  Mr. Sitanshu Kumar Rout, OAS (SAG), Collector and DM, Khordha, said in this difficult situation of COVID19 we all should work together. Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, OSCPCR appreciated the work PECUC has done for the children and hope that PECUC will continue this work in the future also. Dr. Sahadev Sahoo, Former Chief Secretary of Govt. of Odisha also complemented PECUC for its commendable work in social sector.  Francoise Binsfield, Executive Director, AEIN, Luxemberg also gave her good wishes on this occasion. They all appreciated the selfless work of PECUC and wished that PECUC will continue its work with full vigor in future. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC shared the 30 years of Experience of PECUC in this meeting. PECUC’s Executive Director Anuradha Mohanty gave the welcome address and shared the purpose of this meeting. Among other Smt. Adaramoni Boral, Chairman, PECUC, Dr. Minakhi Panda, Director, PECUC, Dr. Snehaprabha Samantaray, Eminent Odishi Dancer, Dr.Santha Sinha, Senior Jaouralist Sj. Pradosh Kumar Pattnaik, Jatindra Dash, Madhabananda Behera  also gave their compliments. Vote of thanks was given by Ratna Dash of PECUC. 

People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a Centre for People’s Empowerment and Sustainable Development, a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha, India celebrated its 30^th anniversary yesterday. PECUC was formed by a team of likeminded persons in the initial focus on welfare of children and formation of people’s culture in the year 1990. Since then PECUC has continued its journey with a mission of socio-cultural and economic development of the poor and marginalized community with people’s participation, particularly the youth, women, children & older persons as its corner stone. PECUC has pioneered in the field of eradication of child labour in the country and rescued and rehabilitated of more than 35000 child labour. Besides PECUC has also set many millstones including enrollment 67,948 children in school, promotion of 387 Sishu Sabhas (Child Right Club) with 19247 child members, promotion of 427 SHGs with 5,291 women members, promotion and strengthening of 171 farmers group with more than 3,420 members, and planting 8,13,119  trees planted in house yards, open space, institutions, avenue for the protection and preservation of environment. Besides PECUC has a history of involvement in humanitarian response work during disaster like cyclone, floods and recently COVID19. As a Child Rights focused organization PECUC always give its first priority to the wellbeing of vulnerable children by bringing many innovative ideas Sradha Bhawan, AADI-Therapy Centre into action.

On this occasion of 30^th Anniversary PECUC undertook many activities like supporting PPE kits at Bhubaneswar Special jail, plantation at Mahatma Gandhi academy and also a facebook live programme involving it’s all well wishers, children, CBOS, staffs, old staff, donors, partners, volunteers in the community.

Many eminent personnel of different social background also sent their greeting by complimenting PECUC’s commendable work in the field of social service. Prominent among them were Sj. Biswabhushan Harichandan, Governor Andhrapradesh, Mr. Santosh Upadhaya, DG, Prison, Bhubaneswar, Mr. Rinchen Chopel, Director General of SAIEVAC – an apex body of SAARC, Mr. Niranjan Sahoo, IAS, Revenue Divisional Commissioner, Bhubaneswar, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Jena, IAS, Managing Director, OSDMA, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Biswal, IAS (Retd), Former Special Secretary, Mr. Mathew Philips, Convener CACL, Rezia Ismail, IACR, Ruby Rout, Ulrika Oberge & Eva Maria of Adoptionscentrum, Ingrid Mendonca, P.E. Reji of Terre Des Hommes, Germany, Saumyakant Mishra of Save the Children, Sukanta Mohapatra of The Hunger Project.  Their messages were shared through facebook live programme and social media platform of PECUC.     

Eminent Cine Actress & PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for Child Rights Bhoomika Dash and PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of Right to Play & National Level Player Anshika Routray gave their message through facebook live Programme. Facedook live programme was compared by Mr.Milan with the support of Ms. Sushree Shailani Suman. All these activities that were carried on today were dedicated to COVID19 Warriors.

State Level Workshop – “Impact of Crisis on Child Labour” –  Webinar Organised on the occasion of World Day against Child Labour to culminate 44 Days Campaign to End Child Labour

Bhubaneswar (12-June-2020): A state Level Workshop on virtual platform on “Impact of Crisis on Child Labour” – was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organisation of Odisha on the occasion of World Day against Child Labour to mark the culmination of 44 Days Campaign to end Child Labour. This e-workshop was attended by many participants including Govt. officials, NGOs, Women PRIs, teachers’ association, CWC members, CSOs, media, INGOs etc of Odisha as well as from different states of India. The present pandemic can push millions of vulnerable children into child labour. Globally already, there are an estimated 152 million children in labour force, 72 million of which are in hazardous work. These children are now at even greater risk of facing circumstances. The entire world is terrified. The crisis due to COVID19 effects on the existing child labour and it may contribute to the possible rise in the number of child labour in the coming years. All the educational institutions are closed due to the pandemic situation. The children of vulnerable class would be forced to leave school and go for earning to support the family. These are few concerns raised by the speakers. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address. Chairing this workshop Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave introductory remark and shared the purpose of this workshop. He briefly stated that COVID19 has indeed increased the risk for children and lots of effort needed to lessen the risk and save the children from the impact of COVID19.  

Sj. Pradeep Kumar Mohapatra, Divisional Labour Commissioner, Labour & ESI Dept., Govt. of Odisha discussed about the challenges created due to COVID19 pandemic and also about the enforcement of laws to combat child labour situation. This pandemic has accelerated the process of child labour and other child right related issues which needs to be curtailed for the safety and security of the children. Other notable guest speakers of this workshop were Mr. Pradeep Kumar Bisawl, IAS (Retd.), Mr. Jatin Dash, Senior Journalist, & Ms. Madhumita Das, Consultant, WCD Dept., Govt. of Odisha. They discussed in detail about the child labour situation in this pandemic time, challenges, disruption of children education, violation of child rights, SDG & children rights, problem faced by the children with disability, issues of children on move, various socio psychological aspects to deal with the children and speakers stressed on the combine effort of all including community, civil society organisation & all line departments of Govt., media, corporate houses to overcome this challenging situation and keeping children safe. Speaker also stressed on the need of alternative to online teaching and strategic action to combat child labour. Anil Pradhan, convenor of RTE Forum also spoke on this occasion and gave emphasis on opening of school with all safety measures. Dr. S Jena, CWC member and Kabita Kanungo, Teacher and CWC members, child right activists and experts also put forward their view points in this workshop.

Bhubaneswar 5-6-2020: Today on the occasion of World Environment Day People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in collaboration with Adoptionscentrum organised a State Level Youth Convention on Biodiversity, a Webinar. Around 68 participants including youths from Keonjhar, Khordha, Baleswar, Puri, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, Kandhamal, Koraput, Nabrangpur & Kendrapada joined this webinar. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC welcomed the guests and participants and also shared the purpose of this convention. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC in his introductory remarks emphasised that we should work for protecting and preserving the bio-diversity of the nature and it is the need as nature has hinted us through series of calamities and disaster. Other notable guests of the convention were Ulrika Oberg, Programme Manager, Adoptionscentrum, Ruby Rout, Country Director of Adoptionscentrum, Pranab Chaudhury, Former Scientist of Former Scientist of Indian Council Agricultural Research and Sushree Shailani Suman, Chief Editor, Research Edit. Ulrika Oberg said we should give space to nature and we should reduce our footprint. The COVID19 has provided much needed breathing space for the nature and we should care and protect the bio-diversity of nature. Pranab Chaudhury said as earth is losing it bio diversity the frequency of disaster increased and it will increase in future if we will not protect and preserve it. We all should make it a habit to preserve the nature around us. Sustainable agriculture should be practices, more tree to be planted and species to be protected to preserve bio diversity. Ruby Rout pointed out specifically what should be the role of youth to preserve nature. By innovating new technique the youth should work towards reducing the pollution. They should take care of the tree they are plating & they should make it a habit to preserve the uniqueness of nature. Sushree Shailani Suman clearly indicated that by harming the nature we are harming ourselves and everything comes back to us. We all need to aware about the nature around us as it is very silently works towards our own protection. In the open discussion session various question asked by participants answered by the guests. Smruti Ranjan Pradhan, State President of Ecosavers Youth Network briefly shared about the activities they are doing also appealed all youths to join in this noble movement.

A district Level Workshop on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights of Adolescent and Young Women was organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in collaboration with Adoptions Centrum at DRDA conference hall, Khordha on 21^st Dec 2019. More than 80 participants including adolescent group members, young women group members, Govt. officials and media personnel participated in this workshop. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC welcomed the guests and also shared the purpose of this workshop. She also said PECUC is working in this field and generating awareness among adolescents and young women on their education, life skill educationreproductive rights etc. Ms. Adaramani Baral, Chairman, PECUC chaired the session and Dr. Minakhi Panda, Director PECUC also spoke on the issues of adolescents and young women. Ms. Ruby Rout, Country Director of Adoptionscentrum said that the problems of the adolescents will be solved with the help of both community and the Government.

On the Occasion Chief Guests of this workshop Mr. Diganta Routray, Project Director, DRDA, Khordha inaugurated the workshop and said to overcome the challenges  NGOs & Govt. department should work together. He also emphasized on the Life Skill education of Adolescents as they are prone to abuse in this phase of life. Among other   Mr. Manoj Naik, District Welfare Officer, Ms. Amriita Pattnaik, District  Coordinator,  Samagra Sikhya, Khordha, Dr. P.K. Mishra, District Public Health Communication Officer, Dr. Indira Rath, District Leprosy Officer, CDMO Office, Somendra Nayak, LPO, District Child Protection Unit were present on this programme. They spoke about the adolescent issues and also women reproductive health issues, schemes and programmes of Govt. As the adolescent pass the changing phase of life and in this phase the children faces numerous physical and psychological problems, which they can’t share with anybody. Special education to adolescents is necessary for this purpose was their opinion. The speakers also discussed on various issues relating to young women and adolescents like sexual and reproductive rights of women and adolescents, AIDs/HIVs, health services and schemes and programmes of Govt., domestic violence, health and sanitations for girls, family planning, birth spacing, nutritious food etc. Family, community, Civil Society Organisation, Media and Government all should work together for education and awareness. Mr. Prashant Kumar Mallick of PECUC gave the Vote of Thanks.  The programme was facilitated by Mr. Panu Behera, Ms Priyadarshini Swain and Binod Kumar Das of PECUC.                  

Bhubaneswar 10/12/2019: An interface meeting of Elected Women Representative with District Administration was organsied by People’s cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha in collaboration with The Hunger Project (THP) at the Red Cross Bhawan. In this meeting more than 35 Women Elected Representative from Bolgarh and Balianta block of Khordha district participated. The guest speaker of this programme were Mr. Sachidananda Pati, District Project Officer, Khordha, Ms. Banishree Pattnaik, District Child Protection Officer, Khordha, Ms. Sandhyarani Guru, District Emergency Officer, Khordha and Bijayalaxmi Behera, Child Development Project Officer, BMC, Bhubaneswar. They discussed on child protection, child right, child and mother care, village level emergency committee and role of women and also about their issues, Govt.s  programme for emergency  situation and also on various Govt.’s scheme and programme etc. Among other Rasmita Patra, Sarpanch Benupur & President ALIBHA EWRs Federation also present in this meeting.  The EWRs also put forward their issues like strengthening of child protection committee in the Panchayat level, informing people about all the schemes and programme relating to ICDS, Increasing the height of canal embankment to prevent flooding in the Balianta, providing Govt support to rightful beneficiary of the disaster etc in this interface meeting. Prashant Kumar Mallick, Upama Mohanty and Bamadeva Jena of PECUC conducted this programme.     

The 16 Days Activism is an International Campaign that started in 1991. Since then, over 6000 organisations in 187 countries have taken part in this campaign. This Campaign provides each and every one of us with the opportunity to break the silence around violence against women. Almost 35% of women in the world are victims of violence. Nearly three out of every four trafficked women and girls are trafficked for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Even in this modern day and age, violence against women is still on the rise. They are not only being raped but kidnapped, sexually abused and also through domestic violence and dowry killings. People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) a leading organization in the state collaboration with The Hunger Project launched this “16 days of Activism” from 3rd December 2019 on Ending Violence against Women.

This weeklong campaign launched a mobile van campaign at Balianta and Bolagarh Block of Khordha district to aware the people on the issues of VAW and more specifically domestic violence. A District level workshop on Violence against Women was organized on 3rd Dec 2019 at Rotary Bhawan, Bhubaneswar. Dr. Minakhi Panda, Director PECUC, presided over the meeting.  

Esteemed Guest, Arun Kumar Behera, Additional District Magistrate, Bhubaneswar said that the domestic violence issues can be solved by creating awareness among all sections of people. Ms. Sulata Deo, Adviser Women & Child Development dept., Govt. of Odisha, Ms. Snehanjali Mohanty, Member, State Commission for women & Anuradha Biswal, Olympian   addressed the gathering and appreciated the campaign for raising awareness among people regarding how to get information and access the services to end violence against women. Also they spoke on DV act and role of Women Commission & Protection Officer. Among other Swapna Bhoi, Vice Chairman, ALIBHA EWR Federation, Balianta block & Babita Sahoo, Sarpanch of Bolgarh block spoke on this occasion. Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC, gave welcome address and shared the objective of the workshop and on the weeklong campaign and said, ”PECUC is taking initiative at different levels to address the issues to protect women from violence and abuses and working towards a Violence Free Society”.  In this campaign more than 100 women PRI’s, SHG leaders participated and shared views on panchayat should be given adequate power for giving marriage certificate, birth certificate etc; formation of Sexual Harassment committee at panchayat level; single/divorced women, unmarried girls/ widow’s life should be protected; every panchayat should have separate toilets for women; two-child norm at Panchayati Raj system should be completely banned. Upama Mohanty, Block Coordinator, PECUC gave vote of thanks.  The programme was facilitated by PECUC team Member, Jyotishankar  Mohanty, Bamadeva Jena &Dr. Sumitra Mohanty

Weeklong 30^th PECUC Sisumela Concluded…

The weeklong Children’s festival- 30^th PECUC Sisumela has reached its closing day adding another glorious chapter to the history of PECUC Sisumela. Addressing the closing ceremony Chief Guest Justice Sj Biswanath Rath, Honourable Judge Odisha High Court said  we all should work for the development of children. Mr. Saumya Ranjan Pattnaik, Editor, The Sambad and MLA advised the children to remain grateful  to their parents and to take care of them in the old age and the parents also should consider their child’s interest. Mr. Sitanshu Kumar Rout, Collector Khordha empasised that the children should build their character for a greater future. Mr, Ashok Kumar Tripathy, Former  Administrator Ashok Kumar Tripathy, encouraged the children to follow their dream. Our guests from AEIN Luxembourg Francois, Julien and Jeff congratulated the children on the 30^th anniversary of UNCRC. Among other Ruby Rout, Country Director, Adoption Centrum,  emphasized on the welfare of the children. They emphasized that all children deserve happy childhood and they should be encouraged to follow their dream. They further stated that all the parent, guardian, citizen, community, Govt. bodies, voluntary organization should come forward to join their hand to create a better environment where every child  should feel safe, secure and well protected. Their natural physical and mental progress should not be hindered by any social, economical and cultural barrier.

This programme was presided over by President, Sisumela Committee and Renowned Journalist Mr. Prodosh Kumar Pattnaik and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the introductory note. Among others Mrs. Adaramani Boral, chairman PECUC  spoke on the occasion. Vote of Thanks was given by Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC.

On this occasion children and adults personalities were honoured with many prestigious annual awards for outstanding performance in different fields. Senior Journalist Sj Shital Taranga Beuria  was honoured with prestigious “Swarup Jena Memorial Award 2019” for outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, where as “Abani Baral Memorial Award 2019” to Retd. Teacher Kishor Chandra Paramguru  for his contribution in the field of teaching,  “Sisusathi Award 2019” to Sj. Nrushinha Nath Singh for outstanding contribution for children,  “Prafulla Chandra Dash Memorial Sisu Adhikar Surakshya Award 2019” to SJ Prakash Kumar Rath for his social work, Women PRI Rasmita Patra was given “Aradhana Nanda Smaraki Samman 2019” for his outstanding work as a people’s representative,  “Ketaki Pattnaik Memorial Award 2019”  to Smruti Ranjan Mohanty & Rajeswari Swain  for securing highest mark in scholarship examination,  “Dr. Sarat Chandra Pujari Memorial Award 2019” to Child Artist  Ayesha Shamal for acting, “Prafulla Chandra Das Memorial Sisu Prativa Award 2019”  to Ayusha Pattnaik  for all round achievement , “Baji Rout Memorial Award 2019” to Kumari Shrimati Bandra for bravery and courageous activity,  “Prananath Pattnaik Memorial Award 2019” to a child Kalyani Priyadarshini for social work, Gautam Rath was chosen for “Baby of the Year award 2019”.

Child artists of Cultural groups like Sunrise Public School, BJEM Dance group, Flowers Group,  Navodaya Vidyalaya, Khordha, Sarala Dance Group, performed colourful cultural programme. In this week long children festival help and cooperation was provided by Cultural Department and Labour Department of State Government, Rotary Club RCB Unique, Adoption Centrum, TDH[G], AEIN, OIK, DIK,  SBI, India, IMFA, Canara Bank etc. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Mr Prashant Kumar Mallick, Mr. Panu Behera, Mr. Ganeswar Singh, Upama Mohanty, Binod Kumar Dash, Dr. Sumitra Mohanty, Monalisa Patra  etc. of PECUC conducted the programme.

World day for prevention of child abuse Observed

Walkathon against Child Labour, Exploitation & Violence in Bhubaneswar City

19^th November is being observed as the   “World day for prevention of child abuse” all over the world. Take action and prevent child abuse is taken as theme for 2019. Child abuse is a major cause of concern, which creates barrier for free growth of children. Adding to different form of exploitation, exclusion issues have played major role in damaging the child hood of millions of children.  Violence against children takes many forms i.e Child labour, child trafficking, Corporal punishment, sale of children, sexual abuse, child prostitution, neglect, child sex tourism, malnutrition,  bullying, child pornography, harmful traditional practices, abduction, early and forced marriage   etc.

In 2017, the WHO estimated that up to 1 billion minors between the ages of 2 and 17 years of age have endured violence either physical, emotional, or sexual. Sexual abuse (from groping to rape), according to some UNICEF estimates from 2014, affected over 120 million children, representing the highest number of victims. In 2017, the same UN organization reported that in 38 low and middle income countries, almost 17 million adult women admitted having a forced sexual relationship during their childhood. 

At least 3 of every 4 of the world’s children have experienced violence .Child labour is one of the worst forms of violence against children.  According to ILO, 152 million children are still in child labour. Child labour occurs in almost all sectors, yet 7 out of every 10 of these children are working in agriculture.

In November of 1989, nearly every country in the world signed on to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history. Countries across the globe signed onto the CRC, of which one of the articles stated that all children have the right to be protected from violence.

Thirty years later, the world has undoubtedly changed for children. While only five countries had prohibited corporal punishment against children in 1989, today, 58 countries have issued bans of their own. The number of child labourers has decreased by a third since 2000, from 246 to 152 million. And over the last decade, 25 million child marriages were prevented due to increased gender equity and widespread progress. This year the whole world is observing the 30^th anniversary of United Nations Convention of Rights of the Child. 

To mark the occasion   a “ Walkathon against child Labour, Exploitation and Abuse” , From Ram Mandir Square to Master canteen Square and  Signature campaign near Master Canteen Square  were  organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) a leading child rights organization in collaboration with  the Labour & ESI Department, Govt. Of  Odisha. Chairperson of Odisha Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board Sj. Subash Singh, and Sj. Niranjan Sahoo, Labour Commissioner & Anshika Routray, PECUC Goodwill Ambassador, for promotion Right of the Children to Play, inaugurated the walk and signature campaign. Other dignitaries like Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC & Chairperson of NACG EVAC, India, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC, Pradeep Kumar Mohapatra, Divisional labour Commissioner, Anuradha Biswal, Olympiad, Sulata Deo, Adviser, WCD, Govt. of Odissa, Mr. S.N Acharya, Assistant Labour Officer, Ms. Dharashree Mohapatra, Assistant Labour Officer, Mr. Pravakar Biswal, Labour Inspector & Kaliputra Kuldeep Prasad, Labour Inspector were present on this occasion. Speakers emphasized to stop child labour and all form of child abuse in their talk. Child labour is the worst form of violence on children. We all need to work together to eradicate child labour and mainstream them through education .The Govt & Civil Society Organisations of Odisha are taking up various steps for development of children .However we all need to work together and also massive awareness is required to eliminate child labour, prevent child abuse, and end violence against children was stressed by speakers also told that it is our responsibility to aware people about not to engage children as child labour which destroy their childhood. A large number of youth from Baneswar Higher Secondary College and youth volunteers from around 10 districts of Odisha participated in the programme.

Ms. Ratna Dash, Ms. Prashant Kumar Mallick and Mr. Jyotisankar Mohanty, Mr. Panu Behera facilitated the programme.

Fifth Day of 30^th PECUC Sisumela

Bhubaneswar (18-Nov-2019) : Odishi Dance Competition among the children was the main attraction of the 5^th day of 30^th PECUC Sisumela. Children adorned with colorful Odishi Costume enthralled the audience by their performance on the stage. The guests of the evening Renowned Odishi Dancers Dr. Snehaprava Samantaray, Dr. Meenakshi Behera, Mamata Sathpaty, Sharat Pani, Musician, Shishir Bahinipati, State Programme Office, Tuberculosis, Health Dept.,  Manoranjan Mishra, Manager, HDB, Suhree Shailani Suman, Chief Editor, Research Edit,  distributed prizes among the winner of the drawing and quiz competition. The presence of the renowned personalities inspired both the artist and audience equally.

Among other Mr. Pradosh Pattnaik, Chairman, PECUC Sisumela Committee, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were also present on the occasion. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Ganeswar Sing, Prashant Kumar Mallick, Rajkishor Senapati, Bamdev Jena, Biswajit Muduli etc. of PECUC conducted the programme. Cultural programme by children of Dibyajyoti Smrutipitha, Sharala Dance Group, Nrutyanshi Dance Group, Kwity Kid Group & Dasabatar Dance group captivated the audience.

PECUC Sisumela – 6^th Day - 19^th Nov 2019 Programme

Morning

World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse – 2019

Walkathon against Child Labour, Exploitation & Violence – Ram Mandir Square –7:00AM

Evening

Fancy Dress Competition – Sisu (4:30 PM), Sub Junior (5:30 PM), Junior (6:30 PM)

Venue: At: Ekamrahat Amphitheatre, Bhubaneswar

Child Artiste Abhijit Padhi got “Pilanka Akshaya Samman-2019”

Tribute to Legendary Music Director, Singer & Lyricist Akshaya Mohanty by children

Bhubaneswar (17-Nov-2019): “Pilanka Akhaya” night of 30^th PECUC Sisumela. The Amphitheatre of Ekamrahat echoed with the everlasting songs of Legendary Singer, Lyricist & Music Director Late Akshaya Mohanty, on the voice of little children, as the evening progressed. In a unique way children paid tribute to the Icon of Odia Music on his 17^th Death Anniversary.

Singer of the young generation  Abhijit Padhi honoured with prestigious Pilanka Akshaya Samman 2019. Eminent singer Smt Shyamamani Devi,Mr  Prabeep kumar Biswal, IAS, Additional Secretary, Finance Dept. Govt. of Odisha, renowned  Singers  Laxmikant Palit, Subas Dash,  Bandita Das, Ghasiram Panda Social Worker,Sj jatin Dash , Senior Journalist , Rupak Mohanpatra, Programme Manager, NRHM ,Madhabananda Beura ,Journalist were spoke on the occassion. Mrs. Adaramani Boral, Chairman, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Dr. Minakhi Panda, Director, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, of PECUC, also spoke on the occasion.

 Ekamrahat  reverberate with songs like Udashi Akhi……, Udi Udi Jaere Mora Gudi……, Sei Dipa Achhi……, Mana Hajijae……, Danei Das Kahere Bhai….,Paradeshi Bandhu…., Chithi Mor Tiki Chadhei….., Shikari Shikari……., Smruti Eka Rupa Janha….., Chumki Chumki…., Jajabar Mana Mora…., Phur Kini Udi Gala…., Tor Mor Katha Heba…, Jharaka Kholi….., Nadira Nama…, Mayabini Bana Jyotsna…, Sabi Sabi…, Batoi Bhai…. etc. The singers were Anjalideepa,  Abhijit, Nirbishesh, Smaranika, Akankhya, Tanushree, Dibyanshu, Santosh, Rudra Madhab, Niharika & Adysha.  The programme was nicely anchored by Soumya Priyadarshi & Sovnit Patnaik .   

 The veteran musicians  Mr Sarat Pani, M. Simadri, Babloo & Alok accompanied the child singers. The prizes distributed by the guests to the winners of song competition. The programme was organized by PECUC in joint collaboration with Rotary Club Unique, Bhubaneswar.

Fine Art, Elocution and Quiz competition were also organised among the children in the morning. Manas Ranjan Nayak, Shushree Shailani Suman, Shishir Bahinipati and Manoranjan Mishra joined as judges for this competitions.

Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr Prashant Kumar Mallick, Mr. Panu Behera,, Ganeswar Singh, Monalisa Patro , Upama Mohanty, Bamdev Jena, Pridarshini  .of PECUC conducted the programme.

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PECUC Sisumela 5^th Day Programme of 18^th Nov

Odishi Dance Competition at 5:00 PM

Cultural Programme & Prize Distribution at 7:00 PM

At: Ekamrahat Amphitheatre, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: PECUC sisumela has reached in its third day. The stage of the Amphitheatre of Ekamrahat vibrated with the dancing steps of the little stars and the enthralled audience recognized it with their loud applause & praise as this was the day of Modern Dance Competition. The judges for the today’s competition were Rekha Sahoo, Sanjay Suman and Surjyanarayan .

The guests of the evening were Ms. Dibya Saswati, Member, OSCPCR, Ms. Sulata Deo, Adviser of Women and Child Development Dept., Govt. of Odisha, Maya Swain, Chairperson, Lion Club, Nirmal Behera, Social Worker.  They appreciated the effort of PECUC for providing a platform for the children to exhibit their inner talent without any fear, anxiety and discrimination. Prize was distributed to the winner of Rhymes Compitition.

Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC were present on this occassion. Mrs. Ratna Dash, Sushri Shailani Suman, Mr. Prashant Kumar Mallick, Upama Mohanty, Panu Behera etc. of PECUC conducted the programme. Cultural Troup of different dance groups like Lakhya dance Group, Sunrise Public School & Srimayee performed on this occasion, which was very entertaining and educative for the audience.

PECUC Sisumela 4^th Day Programme of 17^th Nov

Pilanka Akshya: Akshya Mohanty’s song by children at 6:00 PM

At Amphitheatre Ekamrahat, Bhubaneswar

ପିକକ୍ ଶିଶୁମେଳା – ୨ୟ ଦିବସ 

କୁନି କୁନି ପିଲାଙ୍କ କଣ୍ଠରେ ପରିବେଶ, ପ୍ଲାଷ୍ଟିକ, ସ୍ଵଚ୍ଛତା, ଦେଶପ୍ରେମ ଆଦି ଉପରେ ସଚେତନତା ର ବାର୍ତ୍ତା

ପିପୁଲସ୍ କଲ୍ଚରାଲ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍) ପକ୍ଷରୁ ଏକାମ୍ର ହାଟରେ ଚାଲିଥିବା ସାତଦିନ ବ୍ୟାପୀ ଶିଶୁମେଳାର ଏହା ଥିଲା ଦ୍ଵିତୀୟ ଦିବସ । ଦ୍ଵିତୀୟ ଦିନ ଅପରାହ୍ନରେ ବେବି ଅଫ୍ ଦ ଇୟର ଓ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟାରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ଦ୍ଵାରା ଆବୃତି ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା ର ଆୟୋଜନ ହୋଇଥିଲା । କୁନିକୁନି ପିଲାଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଅୟୋଜିତ ଏହି ଶିଶୁମେଳାର ଆକର୍ଷଣ ଥିଲା ବେବି ଅଫ୍ ଦ ଇୟର ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା । ଏଥିରେ ଡାକ୍ତର ପୁରୁଣିମା ପ୍ରଧାନ, ମହିଳା ଓ ଶିଶୁ ବିକାଶ ବିଭାଗ ର ପରମର୍ଶଦାତ୍ରୀ ମଧୁମିତା ଦାସ, ସମାଜସେବୀ ସୁମିତ୍ରା ତ୍ରିପାଠୀ, ସିନ୍ଧୁଜା ପତ୍ରିକାର ସମ୍ପାଦିକା ଶର୍ମିଳା ସାହୁ,  ସମାଜସେବୀ ପ୍ରବୀଣା ତ୍ରିପାଠୀ ଏବଂ କଣ୍ଠଶିଳ୍ପୀ ବନ୍ଦିତା ଦାସ, ହେଲ୍ପ ଏଜ ଇଣ୍ଡିଆ ର ଭାରତି ଚକ୍ର  ଅତିଥି ଭାବେ ଯୋଗ  ଦେଇ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ଉତ୍ସାହିତ କରିବା ସହିତ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ସୁରକ୍ଷିତ ପରିବେଶ ନିମନ୍ତେ ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କର ସହଯୋଗ ରହିବା ଆବଶ୍ୟକ ବୋଲି ମତ ରଖିଥିଲେ । ପିକକ୍ ଶିଶୁମେଳା କମିଟିର ଅଧକ୍ଷ ଶ୍ରୀଯୁକ୍ତ ପ୍ରଦୋଷ କୁମାର ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ, ସମ୍ପାଦକ ରଞ୍ଜନ ମହାନ୍ତି, କାର୍ଯ୍ୟନିର୍ବାହୀ ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶିକା ଅନୁରାଧା ମହାନ୍ତି ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଉପସ୍ଥିତ ଥିଲେ । କୁନି କୁନି ପିଲାମାନେ ପରିବେଶ, ପ୍ଲାଷ୍ଟିକ, ସ୍ଵଚ୍ଛତା, ଦେଶପ୍ରେମ ଆଦି ଉପରେ ଆଧାରିତ କବିତା ଆବୃତି କରିଥିଲେ । ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ  କୁ ଶ୍ରୀନିବାଶ ଘଟୁଆରୀ ସଂଯୋଜନା କରିଥିଲେ । ପିକକ୍ ର ରତ୍ନା ଦାଶ, ପ୍ରଶାନ୍ତ କୁମାର ମଲ୍ଲିକ, ଗଣେଶ୍ଵର ସିଂ, ଡାଃ ସୁମିତ୍ରା ମହାନ୍ତି ପ୍ରମୁଖ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ପରିଚାଳନା କରିଥିଲେ । ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟାରେ କେଟିଟି ଗ୍ରୁପ, ପର୍ଲ୍ଲୀ ଇଣ୍ଟରନ୍ୟାସନାଲ୍ ଗ୍ରୁପ, ଶ୍ରୀମୟୀ ଗ୍ରୁପ ଓ ସାଇନିଙ୍ଗ ଷ୍ଟାର ଗ୍ରୁପ ମାନଙ୍କର ଚିତ୍ତାକର୍ଷକ ସାଂସ୍କୃତିକ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ଦର୍ଶକ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ମନ୍ତ୍ରମୁଗ୍ଧ କରିଥିଲା ।

ପିକକ୍ ଶିଶୁମେଳା ତୃତୀୟ ଦିବସ ତା ୧୬॰ ୧୧॰ ୨୦୧୯ ରିଖ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟସୂଚୀ ସ୍ଥାନ – ଏକାମ୍ର ହାଟ ଅମ୍ଫିଥିଏଟର

ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫. ୦୦ ଘଟିକା –  ଆଧୁନିକ ନୃତ୍ୟ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା

ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୭. ୦୦ ଘଟିକା  - ସାଂସ୍କୃତିକ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ଏବଂ ପୁରସ୍କାର ବିତରଣ ଉତ୍ସବ

PECUC’s 30th Sisu Mela: Week Long Children Festival Inaugurated

Bhubaneswar: Children must dream to become successful during early stage of their life and to fulfill the dream they should devote their effort in this direction. All parents, guardians and teachers should come forward to encourage their children in achieving their goal, told by eminent dignitaries while addressing to the Inaugural Ceremony of 30th year Sisu Mela (Children festival week) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading socio-cultural organization at Bhubaneswar.

On Thurseday evening, while inaugurating the weeklong festival of PECUC the guest encouraged the children and emphasized that the children must see dream and they should engage themselves to achieve them.
Inaugurating the 30th PECUC Sisumela Minister of Home, Energy & Industry Captain Dibya Shankar Mishra emphasized that the children should be encouraged to follow their dream. Sri Arun Kumar Sahoo, Minister, Higher Education & Agriculture and farmer empowerment, fisheries and animal resources said that children should not became the machine rather they should spent their childhood in enjoying it to the fullest. MLA Ananta Narayan Jena and MLA Prashant Muduli told about the different schemes and programmes of Government for children.

The inaugural function was chaired by senior journalist and President of PECUC sisumela Sri Pradosh Pattnaik, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC gave the welcome address and Esecutive Director of PECUC Ms. Anuradha Mohanty gave vote of thanks.

Mr. Niranjan Sahoo, IAS, labour commissioner, Govt. of Odisha emphasized that it is the responsibility of all the elders to ensure smiling on the face of all children, he also said about the recent child labour act provisions & engaging children in labour is a heinous crime. Mr. Sahadev Sahu, Retd IAS, Former Chief Secretary Govt. of Orissa said that dedication, hard work and positive attitude are the key points behind all success and to be a responsible citizen all children should follow these principles. Among other Adaramani Baral, Chairperson, PECUC, Dr. Seba Mohapatra and Ms Anuradha Biswal, Olympian said a happy childhood is the right of every child.
Eminent Actress & 16 year old Bhoomika Dash PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of child rights for the year 2019-2021 discussed about the different challenges the children of today are facing and she also encouraged the children to follow their dreams. 14 year old sports person Anshika Routray, Goodwill Ambassador for Promotion of Right of the Children to Play shows her concerns over the less time to play for children and stressed that the parents should encourage their children for outdoor games as it is necessity for their physical stability.

It was followed by colourful cultural program by Children of KTT group from Dept of culture, Govt of Odisha, Vickey dance group and by Avantika dance group. The program was conducted by Mrs. Ratna Dash, Mr. Prashant Kumar Mallick, Mr. Jyotisankar Mohanty, Mr. Ganeswar Singh of PECUC.
The festival will continue until 20th Nov.

Forest food festival organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) started today in the premises of Kalinga Book Fare, exhibition ground, Bhubaneswar. This event reflects the diversity of food stuff from the forest. Communities whose living space is the forest are invited from the entire state to participate and present different cultivated or wild food stuff. The festival  provide a platform to Adivasi women, to celebrate diversity and tradition as well as to present bio-dynamic and nutritious food stuff from the forest. Marking this occasion a workshop was organised in the Red Cross Bhawan. More than  hundreds of tribal women from the districts of Kendujhar, Sundargarh, Deogarh, Bargarh, Nabrangpur, Khordha, Kandhamal, Cuttack, Sambalpur, Dhenkanal, Boudh, Mayurbhanj etc participated in it. In this workshop specialists from different fields discussed about the importance of forest food products and its necessities in the present context. In their discussion they emphasised on the importance of this type festivals as it will promote the nutritional values of such foods. In the inaugural ceremony of this festival Dr. Sipra Mallick, Member, Food Commission, Govt. of Odisha, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Biswal, IAS, Special Secretary, Finance Dept., Govt. of Odisha, Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC, Dr. Minakhi Panda, Director PECUC, Specialist Ruby Rout &, Dipak Mishra  participated and through light on importance and nutritional value of traditional food, balanced food with special emphasis on the traditional farming culture of tribal people, forest food and its nutritional value etc.

This festival was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), DISHA and CAUSE organisation implementing a programme titled Food Sovereignty for Adivasi Communities in Orissa, India working in 22 villages of Sundargarh and Kendujhar districts for preventing malnutrition by reviving traditional forest product, traditional seeds etc in collaboration with TDH(G) and BMZ. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC gave the welcome address and also shared the purpose and Mr. Abdul Kalam Azad, Secretary DISHA, gave the vote of thanks.                 

ଓଡିଶାରେ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ପାଇଁ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରତ ରାଜ୍ୟର ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ଵେଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠାନ ପିପୁଲସ୍ କଲ୍ଚରାଲ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍) ର ୩୦ ତମ ରାଜ୍ୟସ୍ତରୀୟ ଶିଶୁମେଳା ଆସନ୍ତା ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୪ ତାରିଖ ଶିଶୁଦିବସ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫ ଟାରେ ଭୁବନେଶ୍ଵର ଏକାମ୍ରହାଟ ମୁକ୍ତ ମଞ୍ଚ ରେ ଉଦ୍ଘାଟିତ ହେବ ଏବଂ ବିଶ୍ଵ ଶିଶୁଦିବସ ନଭେମ୍ବର ୨୦ ତାରିଖ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟାରେ ଉଦଯାପିତ ହେବ । ପ୍ରତ୍ୟକ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟାରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ଦ୍ଵାରା ଚିତାକର୍ଷକ  ସାଂସ୍କୃତିକ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ପରିବେଷଣ କରାଯିବ। ଏହି ପରିପ୍ରେକ୍ଷୀରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା ମଧ୍ୟ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ ।  ଏହାର ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ ବିବରଣୀ www॰pecuc॰org ରେ ଉପଲବ୍ଧ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପିକକ୍ ର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ବାର୍ଷିକ ସମ୍ମାନ ପାଇଁ ନାମାଙ୍କନ ଆହ୍ଵାନ କରାଯାଉଛି ।  ନାମାଙ୍କନ ବା ମନୋନୟନ ପତ୍ର ନଭେମ୍ବର ୭ ତାରିଖ ମଧ୍ୟରେ pecucsisumela@gmail॰com ରେ ପହଞ୍ଚିବା ଆବଶ୍ୟକ। ୧୮ ବର୍ଷରୁ କମ୍ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ସମାଜ ସେବା ପାଇଁ ‘ପ୍ରାଣନାଥ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ସାହସିକତା ପାଇଁ ‘ବାଜିରାଉତ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ପ୍ରଫୁଲ୍ଲ ଚନ୍ଦ୍ର ଦାସ ଶିଶୁ ପ୍ରତିଭା ପୁରସ୍କାର, ଅଭିନୟ ପାଇଁ ‘ଶରତ ପୂଜାରୀ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ଶିଶୁ କଣ୍ଠଶିଳ୍ପୀଙ୍କୁ ‘ପିଲାଙ୍କ ଅକ୍ଷୟ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ବୃତ୍ତି ପରୀକ୍ଷାରେ ସର୍ବୋଚ ନମ୍ବର ରଖିଥିବା ଛାତ୍ରଛାତ୍ରୀ ଙ୍କୁ ‘କେତକୀ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ’, ଦିଆଯିବ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ ପ୍ରତ୍ୟକ ବର୍ଷପରି ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଲେଖୁଥିବା କିମ୍ବା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକରୁ ଥିବା ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ ‘ଶିଶୁସାଥି’ ସମ୍ବାଦିକତା ପାଇଁ “ସ୍ୱରୂପ ଜେନା ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିକ୍ଷାକ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଶିକ୍ଷକଙ୍କୁ “ଅବନୀ ବରାଳ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ବା ବିକାଶ ପାଇଁ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରତ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିତ୍ଵଙ୍କୁ “ଡଃ ପି॰ ସି॰ ଦାସ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ”, ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ନିର୍ବାଚିତ ମହିଳା ପ୍ରତିନିଧି ଙ୍କୁ  “ଆରାଧନା ନନ୍ଦ ସ୍ମାରକୀ ସମ୍ମାନ” ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯିବ । ୧୭ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୬ଟାରେ ସ୍ଵର୍ଗତ ଅକ୍ଷୟ ମହାନ୍ତି ଙ୍କର ସ୍ମୃତିରେ “ପିଲାଙ୍କ ଅକ୍ଷୟ”ଶୀର୍ଷକ ଏକ ବିଶେଷ ସଙ୍ଗୀତ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ  । 

ଶିଶୁମେଳା ଅବସରରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ପ୍ରକାରର ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା ମଧ୍ୟ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ । ନଭେମ୍ବର ୧୩ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫ ଟାରେ ଏକାମ୍ର ହାଟ ଠାରେ ସଙ୍ଗୀତ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ),  ୧୫ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୪:୩୦ ରେ ୩ ବର୍ଷରୁ କମ୍ ଶିଶୁଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ସୁନ୍ଦର ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା ( ଜନ୍ମ ପ୍ରମାଣପତ୍ର ଏବଂ ଟିକାକରଣ ପ୍ରମାଣପତ୍ର ବାଧ୍ୟତାମୂଳକ) ଓ ରାଇମସ୍ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ପ୍ରଥମ), ୧୬ ତାରିଖ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫ ରେ ଆଧୁନିକ ନୃତ୍ୟ (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୪ ର୍ଥ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ), ୧୭ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ସକାଳ ୮॰ ୩୦ ରେ ଚିତ୍ରାଙ୍କନ (୨ୟ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ), ସକାଳ ୧୧ ଟାରେ ବକ୍ତୃତା ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୮ମ ରୁ ୧୦ମ), ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୧୨ଟାରେ କୁଇଜ୍ ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗିତା (୫ମ ରୁ ୧୦ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ) (ପ୍ରତ୍ୟକ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟରୁ ୨ ଜଣ ଛାତ୍ର)/ଛାତ୍ରୀ),୧୮ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା ୫ଟାରେ ଓଡିଶୀ ନୃତ୍ୟ (୨ୟ ରୁ ୭ ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ), ୧୯ ତାରିଖ ଦିନ ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୪.୩୦ କୌତୁକ ପୋଷାକ (ନର୍ସରୀ ରୁ ୧ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ, ୨ୟ ରୁ ୪ର୍ଥ, ୫ମ ରୁ ୭ମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ) ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ହେବ। ପ୍ରତିଯୋଗୀ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ଶ୍ରେଣୀ ଅନୁସାରେ ଶିଶୁ, ସବଜୁନିୟର, ଜୁନିୟର ଏବଂ ସିନିୟର ଗ୍ରୁପରେ ବିଭକ୍ତ କରାଯାଇଛି ।                               

A change in habbit has been seen in Suryakanta Bhoi aged 12, a regular attendee of Child Friendly Space. He has left the habbit of taking of Pan, Gutka and Bidi and also regular attending the school. Similarly 12 years old Lipasa Bhoi has overcome her fear by coming to this centre and playing with children of her age. Not only Suryakanta or Lipsa but many children were benefited by the Child Friendly Space organized by PECUC.  

On the third of May Cyclone “Fani” ravaged the coast of Odisha. The situation of the people was precarious with thousands of broken trees and broken electric pole disrupting both the land and telephonic communication associated with the problem of water scarcity left the people of capital in a stand still situation. The loss of other things including house, agriculture, livelihood and livestock was beyond imagination. Khordha & Puri district was worst hit. In the advent of cyclone People’s Cultural Centre PECUC had supported community in its operational areas for early warning, in evacuation and also deputed volunteers etc to make people aware about the situation. Continuously supported in the evacuation process and also counseled people in the shelter and looked after their safety. They also coordinated in the block office. PECUC team reached in the field after the cyclone to assess the situation so that immediate relief measure can be undertaken to help people.

As immediate measure Community kitchen were organized in Chacherasabarasahi of Khordha Municipality, Sundarpur, Dashpur and Godibari village of Bhubaneswar block, Purunajinti Bhoisahi, Nabati Bhoisahi and Barijanga Bhoisahi of Balianta block. In total PECUC could able to feed 3760 hungry soul, which was the immediate need of the community as the people mostly being poor and houses being broken were deprived of cooked food for many days. In total PECUC could organize 15 community kitchens. Besides two days community kitchen for 900 people, at Chanrapada village, Nimapada block of Puri district was provided by PECUC.  

A total of 5719 families were supported with food and non food items in 63 villages of Balianta block, 5 villages of Bhubaneswar block, 5 villages of Khodha Municipality and 4 slums of BMC. Temporary shelter 2650 families supported with tarpaulin one piece each, 800 families with double cotton Mosquito net one each, 133 families with 13.30 quintals of rice, 2462 families with 49.24 quintals of dal, 310 families 9.97 quintals of flat rice, 2329 families [for children] 69.87 quintals of Chhatua, 2329 families with 1KG salt each, 1400 children received 1400 pkts of Biscuit, 1693 adolescent girls received 5179 pkts of sanitary napkins, solar lantern support to 140 families, kitchen garden support to 100 families, 1450 plants, 415 schools children of Balinat block received school kit support. Besides 289 families of Mahisha village of Nimapada block of Puri received sanitary kit including mosquito net, Bucket and Mug one set each.

After “Fani” children in Balianta block were most vulnerable. Their houses broken & study materials destroyed they were very much affected by the situation. Schools were also closed during that period for summer vacation. They were traumatized and passing through a period of uncertainty. Considering the situation PECUC set up 12 Child Friendly Space (CFS) at 7 vulnerable places  of Balianta block, 5 at Khordha Municipality to protect children from abuse, violence & exploitation and to provide them a safe space, where they can spent their time without any fear and anxiety. This space was called as Shradha Bhawan. The children were playing there and also taking part in dance, song, and other such fun activities. Their education was also given equally importance in that centre. Counseling support was also provided to the children to recover from the trauma of cyclone. Trained CFS volunteers were there to take care of them and the centre was opening from 9 AM to 4 PM. The children were engaged in a various activities in a very joyful manner. A total of 469 children were coming to CFS on a regular basis. After the school reopened the children were motivated to join school and the CFS now operating in the morning and afternoon before and after school hours. The volunteers are helping the children to cope with the school. CFS was also a success as the children were playing in the centre under the guidance of our trained volunteers their parents get time to repair their house.

Health risk of community as an aftermath of “Fani” increased. Heat wave, fever, diarrhea, cold etc made situation more vulnerable. PECUC organized 20 nos of Health camps in Balinata block. Around 1630 nos people including children, women and older people, attended the health camp   get medicines. Various awareness campaign like on Diarrhea, hand wash, malaria are also organized in this camp. Sanitation drives was also taken up 30 villages of Balianta block, 1 village in Jatani block and 4 villages in the Khordha municipality where bleaching powder also applied near hand pumps, wells, ponds, drains etc and people were made aware about their health and sanitation. PECUC is also conducting repairing work of cyclone affected Ananta Gopal Upper Primary Bidyapitha of Atala village of Balianta block with the support of Help for Children in Need Foundation, Pune, Maharastra. 

However PECUC was not alone in its endeavor, it was supported by its benevolent partner organizations like TDH(G), AEIN, DIK, Adoptions Centrum, Hindusthan Coca Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd., Analog Devices, SGK India Industrial Services (P) Ltd., Singapur Odia Society and many generous personalities. PECUC’s staffs and its Board Members were also contributed to Fani Response programme.

ପିକକ୍ ର  ଫନି ସହାୟତା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ 

ପିକକ୍ ଦ୍ଵାରା ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ ଶିଶୁ ଅନୁକୂଳ ସ୍ଥାନ ବ ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ କୁ ଆସି 12 ବର୍ଷର ପିଲା ସୂର୍ଯ୍ୟକାନ୍ତ ଭୋଇ ର  ଅଭ୍ୟାସରେ ଆସିଛି ବହୁତ ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତନ, ସେ ପାନ, ଗୁଟକା, ବିଡି ଆଦି ବ୍ୟବହାର କରିବା ଛାଡି ଦେଇଛି ଓ ପ୍ରତିଦିନ ସ୍କୁଲ ଯାଉଛି। ସେହିପରି ୧୨ ବର୍ଷର ଝିଅ ଲିପସା ଭୋଇ ର ଡର ଏହି ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ କୁ ଆସି ଅନ୍ୟ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ସହିତ ମିଶିବା, ଖେଳିବା  ଦ୍ଵାରା ଛାଡି ଯାଇଥିଲା ଓ ସେ ପୂର୍ବ ପରି ସ୍ଵାଭାବିକ ଅବସ୍ଥା କୁ ଫେରିଆସି ପାରିଥିଲା । କେବଳ ଲିପସା ବା ସୂର୍ଯ୍ୟକାନ୍ତ ନୁହନ୍ତି ଆହୁରି ଅନେକ ପିଲା ଏହି ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ ଦ୍ଵାରା ଉପକୃତ ହୋଇଛନ୍ତି ।                

 ସାମୁଦ୍ରିକ ବାତ୍ୟା ”ଫନି” ଉପକୂଳ ଓଡିଶାକୁ ଶୋଚନୀୟ ରୂପେ କ୍ଷତିଗ୍ରସ୍ତ କରିଥିଲା। ବିଶେଷକରି ଏହା ପୁରୀ ଓ ଖୋର୍ଦ୍ଧା ଜିଲ୍ଲାକୁ  ଅଧିକ ମାତ୍ରାରେ ପ୍ରଭାବିତ କରିଥିଲା। ଅନେକ ବୃକ୍ଷରାଜି ଉପୁଡିଯିବା ସହିତ, ବିଦ୍ୟୁତ୍, ଟେଲିଫୋନ, ସଡକ ଭିତ୍ତିଭୂମି ନଷ୍ଟ ହୋଇଯାଇଥିଲା। ମାତ୍ର ସରକାର ଓ ସ୍ଵେଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ସଂଗଠନ ମାନଙ୍କର ଅକ୍ଲାନ୍ତ ଉଦ୍ୟମ ଫଳରେ ବହୁ ଧନ ଜୀବନ କୁ ରକ୍ଷା କରାଯାଇ ପାରିଥିଲା। ବାତ୍ୟା ପରବର୍ତ୍ତୀ ପୁନରୁଦ୍ଧାର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରେ ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ସକ୍ରିୟ ଭାବରେ ଅଂଶଗ୍ରହଣ କରି ପିପୁଲ୍ସ କଲ୍ଚରାଲ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍), ଓଡିଶାର ଏକ ଅଗ୍ରଣୀ ସ୍ଵଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ସଂଗଠନ, ବିପନ୍ନ ପରିବାରଙ୍କୁ ସାହାର୍ଯ୍ୟ ଓ ସହାୟତା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରିବା ସହିତ ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ପ୍ରଦାନ ଦିଗରେ ମଧ୍ୟ ଏହା ବେଶ୍ ଯତ୍ନବାନ୍ ହୋଇଥିଲା। ବାତ୍ୟା ଯୋଗୁଁ ଘର ଦ୍ଵାର ଭାଙ୍ଗି ଯାଇଥିବା ପରିବାର ଓ ଅସୁରକ୍ଷିତ ହୋଇପଡିଥିବା ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ପ୍ରଦାନ ନିମନ୍ତେ ଶିଶୁ ଅନୁକୂଳ ସ୍ଥାନ (ଚାଇଲ୍ଡ ଫ୍ରେଣ୍ଡଲି ସ୍ପେସ) ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ କରାଯାଇଥିଲା । ଏହାକୁ ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧା ଭବନ ନାମରେ ନାମିତ କରଯାଇଥିଲା।  ସେଠାରେ ପିଲାମାନେ ପିକକ୍ ପକ୍ଷରୁ ଯୋଗାଇଦିଆଯାଇଥିବା ଖେଳସାମଗ୍ରୀ ରେ ଖେଳିବା ସହିତ ନାଚ, ଗୀତ, ଗପ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ମନୋରଞ୍ଜନ କରୁଥିଲେ ଓ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ବିଷୟରେ ଶିକ୍ଷାଲାଭ ମଧ୍ୟ କରୁଥିଲେ  । ସେମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ବାତ୍ୟାର ପ୍ରଭାବକୁ ଭୁଲିବା ନିମନ୍ତେ ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ ରେ ସ୍ଵତନ୍ତ୍ର ପରାମର୍ଶର ବ୍ୟବସ୍ତା ମଧ୍ୟ ରହିଥିଲା । ପିଲମାନଙ୍କୁ ମୁଖ୍ୟ ସ୍ରୋତ କୁ ଫେରାଇବା ପାଇଁ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ପାଠ ପ୍ରତି ଆଗ୍ରହ ସୃଷ୍ଟିକରାଯାଇ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟ ଖୋଲିବା ପରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟକୁ ଫେରାଇବାରେ ସହଯୋଗ ମଧ୍ୟ କରଯାଇଥିଲା । ପିଲାମାନେ ଏହି  ଶିଶୁ ଅନୁକୂଳ ସ୍ଥାନ ବା ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧା ଭବନ ରେ ନିରାପଦରେ ସମୟ କାଟୁଥିଲେ। ଏହାଦ୍ଵାରା ପିଲମାନଙ୍କୁ ବାତ୍ୟା ଯୋଗୁଁ ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହୋଇଥିବା ବିପଦପୂର୍ଣ ପରିବେଶରୁ ରକ୍ଷା କରାଯାଇ ପାରିଥିଲା। ଏହି ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ କୁ ଆସି ୧୨ ବର୍ଷ ର ପିଲା ସୂର୍ଯ୍ୟକାନ୍ତ ଭୋଇର ଅଭ୍ୟାସରେ ବହୁତ ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତନ ଆସିଥିଲା ସେ ପାନ, ଗୁଟକା, ବିଡି ଆଦି ବ୍ୟବହାର କରିବା ଛାଡି ଦେଇଛି ଓ ପ୍ରତିଦିନ ସ୍କୁଲ ଯାଉଛି ।  ତିରଣପଦା ଗାଁ ର ୧୨ ବର୍ଷର ଝିଅ ଲିପସା ଭୋଇ ର ଡର ଏହି ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଭବନ କୁ ଆସି ଅନ୍ୟ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ସହିତ ମିଶିବା, ଖେଳିବା  ଦ୍ଵାରା ଛାଡି ଯାଇଥିଲା । ସେ ପୂର୍ବ ପରି ସ୍ଵାଭାବିକ ଅବସ୍ଥା କୁ ଫେରିଆସି ପାରିଥିଲା ।           

ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ର ଅଧିକାଂଶ ଗ୍ରାମରେ ବାସଗୃହ ଭାଙ୍ଗିଯିବା ଫଳରେ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କର ପାଠ ଉପକରଣ ନଷ୍ଟ ହୋଇଯାଇଥିଲା । ଶ୍ରମଜୀବୀ ଲୋକେ ବାତ୍ୟା ପରବର୍ତ୍ତୀ ପୁନରୁଦ୍ଧର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ ରେ ବ୍ୟସ୍ତ ଥିଲାବେଳେ ପିଲାମାନେ  ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧା ଭବନ ରେ ରହୁଥିଲେ।  ପିକକ୍ ପକ୍ଷରୁ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ରେ ୭ ଟି ଓ ଖୋର୍ଦ୍ଧା ମୁନିସିପାଲିଟିରେ ୫ ଟି, ମୋଟ ୧୨ ଟି ଶିଶୁ ଅନୁକୂଳ ସ୍ଥାନ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ପିଲାମାନେ  ସେଠାରେ ସକାଳ ୯ ରୁ ଅପରାହ୍ନ ୪ ଟା ପର୍ଯ୍ୟନ୍ତ ସମୟ ଅତିବାହିତ କରୁଥିଲେ। ସେଠାରେ ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ କିଛି କିଛି ଶିକ୍ଷା ମଧ୍ୟ ଦିଆଯାଉଥିଲା । ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ର ଗଣ୍ଡିଲୋ, ତିରଣପଦା, ଗୋହଳ, ଗୋତଳଗ୍ରାମ ସମେତ ଅନ୍ୟ କେତେକ ଗ୍ରାମରେ ଅସ୍ଥାୟୀ ଭାବେ ୪୬୯ ଶିଶୁଙ୍କୁ ଏଭଳି କେନ୍ଦ୍ରରେ ନାଚଗୀତ, ଖେଳକୁଦ, ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟରକ୍ଷା ଆଦି ସମ୍ବନ୍ଧରେ ଶିକ୍ଷା ଦିଆଯାଉଥିଲା।

ପରିସ୍ଥିତି ସ୍ଵାଭାବିକ ଅବସ୍ଥାକୁ ଫେରିବା ପର୍ଯ୍ୟନ୍ତ ପିକକ୍ ପକ୍ଷରୁ ଖୋର୍ଦ୍ଧା ମୁନିସିପାଲିଟି, ଭୁବନେଶ୍ଵର, ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା, ଓ ନିମାପଡା ବ୍ଲକ୍ ରେ ୧୭ ଟି କମୁନିଟି କିଚେନ୍ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ୪୬୬୦ ଲୋକଙ୍କୁ ରନ୍ଧାଖାଦ୍ୟ ଯୋଗାଇଦିଆଯିବା ସହିତ ମୋଟ ୫୭୧୯ ପରିବାରକୁ ଶୁଖିଲା ଖାଦ୍ୟ ଯଥା ଚୁଡା, ଛତୁଆ, ଡାଲି, ଚାଉଳ, ଲୁଣ ଇତ୍ୟାଦି ଓ ଅନ୍ୟାନ ରିଲିଫ ସହାୟତା ଯୋଗାଇଦିଆଯାଇଥିଲା । ଏତତ୍ ବ୍ୟତିତ ୨୦ ଟି ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ଶିବିରରେ ୧୬୩୦ ଜଣକୁ ଚିକିତ୍ସା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ୨୬୫୦ ପରିବାରକୁ ପଲିଥିନ, ୮୦୦ ପରିବାରକୁ ମଶାରୀ, ୪୧୫ ସ୍କୁଲ ପିଲାଙ୍କୁ ବ୍ୟାଗ୍ ଓ ପାଠ୍ୟ ଉପକରଣ, ୧୬୯୩ କିଶୋରୀ ବାଳିକା ମାନଙ୍କୁ ୫୧୭୯ ସାନିଟାରି ନାପକିନ୍, ୧୪୦ ପରିବାରଙ୍କୁ ସୋଲାର ଲଣ୍ଠନ,   ୧୪୦୦ ପିଲାଙ୍କୁ ୧୪୦୦ ପ୍ୟାକେଟ୍ ବିସକୁଟ୍ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ଏଥି ସହିତ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ର ୧୦୦ ପରିବାରଙ୍କୁ ପାକଶାଳା ବଗିଚା ସହାୟତା ଓ ୧୪୫୦ ବୃକ୍ଷ ମଧ୍ୟ ରୋପଣ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ଏଥି ସହିତ ପୁରୀ ଜିଲ୍ଲା ର ବ୍ରହ୍ମଗିରୀ ବ୍ଲକ ଅଧୀନରେ ଥିବା ମହିଷା ଗ୍ରାମର ୨୮୯ ପରିବାରକୁ ସାନିଟାରି କିଟ୍ (ବାଲଟି, ମଗ ଓ ମଶାରୀ) ମଧ୍ୟ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ଫନି ପରେ ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହୋଇଥିବା ଅସ୍ଵସ୍ଥିକର ପରିବେଶରୁ ଲୋକମାନଙ୍କର ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ରକ୍ଷା ନିମନ୍ତେ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ବ୍ଲକ ର ୩୦ ଟି ଗ୍ରାମ, ଜଟଣୀ ବ୍ଲକ ର ୧ ଟି ଗ୍ରାମ ଓ ଖୋର୍ଦ୍ଧା ମୁନିସିପାଲିଟି ର ୪ ଟି ଗ୍ରାମରେ ରେ ସ୍ଵଚ୍ଛତା ଅଭିଯାନ କରାଯାଇ ନଳକୂପ ଓ ଅନ୍ୟାନ ଜଳସ୍ରୋତ ମାନଙ୍କୁ ବ୍ଲିଚିଙ୍ଗ ଦେଇ ବିଶୋଧନ କରିବା ସହିତ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କୁ ହାତ ଧୋଇବା ଶିକ୍ଷା ଓ ଲୋକମାନଙ୍କୁ ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ଓ ପରିମଳ ସମ୍ବଦ୍ଧରେ ସଚେତନ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ଏତତ୍ ବ୍ୟତିତ ବାତ୍ୟାରେ କ୍ଷତିଗ୍ରସ୍ତ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ବ୍ଲକ ର ଅଟଳା ଗ୍ରାମ ରେ ଥିବା ଅନନ୍ତ ଗୋପାଳ ଉଚ୍ଚ ପ୍ରାଥମିକ ବିଦ୍ୟାପୀଠ କୁ  ମଧ୍ୟ ହେଲ୍ପ ଫର ଚିଲ୍ଡ୍ରେନ ଇନ୍ ନିଡ୍ ଫାଉଣ୍ଡସୋନ, ପୁନେ ର ସହଯୋଗରେ   ପୁନଃନିର୍ମାଣ  କରାଯାଉଛି। ପିକକ୍ କୁ ଏହି କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରେ ଅନ୍ୟମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ତେରେ ଦେଶ୍ ହୋମସ୍ (ଜର୍ମାନୀ), ଏଇଆଇଏନ, ଆଡପ୍ସନ ସେଣ୍ଟ୍ରମ, ହିନ୍ଦୁସ୍ଥାନ କୋକାକୋଲା ବେଭେରେଜେସ୍ ପ୍ରା॰ ଲିଃ, ଆନାଲୋଗ ଡିଭାଇସେସ୍, ଏସଜିକେ, ସିଙ୍ଗାପୁର ଓଡିଆ ସୋସାଇଟି ଓ ବହୁ ସହୃଦୟ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି ସହଯୋଗ କରିଥିଲେ। ପିକକ୍ ର କର୍ମଚାରୀ ମାନେ ମଧ୍ୟ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଗୋଟିଏ ଦିନର ବେତନ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରି ଏଥିପାଇଁ ସହଯୋଗ କରିଛନ୍ତି ।

Bhubaneswar(28/06/2019); A-day long national consultation of the Draft National Education Policy 2019 which was held at Bhubaneswar on Friday ended with a clarion call to the Government of India for focusing of the overall well being of the child and upholding all rights due to them and address the issues of safety and security in schools and related institutions in  policy framework.

Participants stressed on quality, inclusive & safe education for every child.

The consultation organised by the National Action and Coordination Group for Ending Violence Against Children, India[NACG India] in association with PECUC was inaugurated by Professor Mohammad Fakiruddin, Former Vice Chairman CHSE.

Niranjan Sahoo, Director Higher Education and Labour Commissioner also spoke on the opening session.

The inaugural session was chaired by Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Chairperson NACG India & D.Roshan Kumar,Vice Chairperson gave vote of thanks. Experts on the field of child Rights and education from across the country took part in the deliberations.

Dr Amiya Kuma Mohanty, former Additional Director, Higher Education, Odisha & National Convenor of Joint Forum for movement on Education, Ambarish Rai, National Convenor, RTE Forum, P.Victor Raj, National Convenor, CACL.

During the session, Y.Rajendra Prashad, Coordinator, MV Foundation and Razia Ismail of the India Alliance for Child Rights deliberated on the Draft National Education Policy 2019.

The various nuances of the policy were discussed in the plenary.

In the second plenary on Addressing Safety and Security of Children in Schools within New Education Policy, the discussants highlighted the need of measures which ensures overall security and safety of children in the education system.

Kasturi Mohapatra, former Chairperson, OSCPCR, Sanjay Misra, Former Member, Jharkhand SCPCR, Dr.P.C.Mohapatra, former Director, SCERT, Ruby Rout, Country Director, Adoptions Centrum and Suryakant Kulkarni, former member of the Maharastra SCPCR made their presentation on the need for strengthening this component in the new Education Policy. This session was presided by Mr.Mikhael Pradhan ,National Head, Advocacy World Vision of India.

Parallel sessions on School Education led by Dr Chiranjeeb Kakoty, Higher Education led by Prof.Mohammad Fakiruddin and Manabendra Nath Mandal, Technology in Education, Vocational Education led by Bibekananda Das and Anil Pradhan and Transforming Education led by C.J.George and Ruby Rout came out with detailed recommendations for onward forwarding to the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India.Ms Aditi P.Kaur, MCF, Uttarakhand and Parul Seth, Shaishav, Gujarat facilitated different sessions.

Sandhyabati Pradhan, Chairperson, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights graced the concluding session of the consultation as chief guest.

Ms Ratna Dash, Jyoti Shankar Mohanty, Sumitra Mohanty, Sushree Shailani Suman of PECUC supported for organising the National consultation.

United Nations ECOSOC granted Special Consultative Status to PECUC

People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading voluntary organization of Odisha was granted Special Consultative Status from United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on coordination and management meeting of 6^th June 2019. A letter in this regards from the Acting Chief, NGO Branch, Office of the Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development, Deptt. Of Economic and Social Affairs was received today by PECUC office at Bhubaneswar. Consultative status for an organization enables it to actively engage with ECOSOC and its subsidiary bodies, as well as with the United Nations Secretariat, programmes, and agencies in a number of ways. Consultative relationship with NGOs also enables the Council or one of its bodies to seek expert information or advice from organizations with special competence in a subject matter.

Peoples’ Cultural Centre (PECUC) was initiated in late 1980s by a group of social activists, professionals from different background, artists and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers to help the children of different slums and outskirt villages of Bhubaneswar and also to provide a platform to the children to explore their potential. Finally got legal entity during 1990, with the purpose to empower the weaker sections of the society.  PECUC’S  mission is to empower and enable people especially children, women, the aged and others disadvantaged in society, to participate powerfully in their holistic development. PECUC is primarily a child rights focused organization, and  prioritized to focus on the issues relating to child rights, deepening democracy, women empowerment, health & Sanitation, livelihood, rights of the senior citizens, emergency management & climate change adaptation too, during these years. PECUC has pioneered in the field of eradication of child labour in the country and rescued & rehabilitated 32069 child labourers. PECUC has also been awarded with different awards and honours by different Govt and Non Govt organizations. Recently PECUC also has been accepted as a member of Global Partnership to End Violence against Children.

PECUC is now in its 29^th year of getting legal entity and PECUC’s representatives will be able to register for and participate in events, conferences and activities of the United Nations and organizations in general and special consultative status may designate authorized representatives to sit as observers at public meetings of ECOSOC and its subsidiary bodies, the Human Rights Council and, under certain conditions, the General Assembly and other United Nations intergovernmental bodies.

World Day against Child Labour 2019 observed

Youth against Child Labour……..Public Awareness Rally & Signature Campaign in Capital City

“Government of Odisha has formulated a master plan to eradicate child labour from Odisha by the end of 2025” said Subhash Singh, Chairperson of Odisha Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board while addressing the youths at the Master Canteen Square.

Children shouldn’t work in fields, but on dreams. Yet today, 152 million children are still in child labour out of which 73 million in the hazardous work. In India there were more than 10.2 million “economically active” children in the age group of five to 14 years – 5.6 million boys and 4.5 million girls, Eight million children were working in rural areas, and 2 million in urban areas, (ILO & UNICEF)

 “Hundreds of millions of girls and boys throughout the world are engaged in work that deprives them of adequate education, health, leisure and basic freedoms, violating their rights. Of these children, more than half are exposed to the worst forms of child labour such as work in hazardous environments, slavery, or other forms of forced labour, illicit activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution, as well as involvement in armed conflict.” 

Although child labour occurs in almost every sector, seven out of every ten is in agriculture. On this World Day, we also look forward towards UN Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.7 set by the international community calling for an end to child labour in all its forms by 2025. In support of Alliance 8.7, we call for immediate action to address the remaining challenges so that the world community can get firmly on track towards eliminating child labour. Children are not meant to be labourers. This takes away their childhood. Every child must be stopped from stepping in to any form of labour – this is hazardous for any child, anywhere. It is every child’s right not to be a labourer. This issue should be addressed in all spheres and on priority basis told by Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Chairperson of NACG EVAC India and Former National Convenor on Campaign against Child Labour while addressing the Public Awareness Rally.  

On the occasion of World Day against Child Labour 2019 People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a leading child rights organization of Odisha organized a Youth against Child Labour – Public Awareness Rally & Signature Campaign in collaboration with Labour and ESI department of Government of Odisha on 12^th June 2019 from Ram Mandir Square to Master Canteen. The Rally & Signature Campaign was Flag up by Chairperson of Odisha Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board Sj. Subash Singh in presence of Famous Ollywood Actress and PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of Child Rights Bhoomika Dash and Anshika Routray Goodwill Ambassador for the promotion of Right to Play and Anuradha Biswal, Olympian. Other esteemed guest like Kishalaya Sathpathy, Divisional Labour Commissioner, Arun Kumar Behera, ADM, Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director PECUC, Ambika Prasad Mishra, District Labour Officer, Satyanarayan Acharya & Dharashree Mohapatra, Additional Labour Officer, Kuldeep Prasad, Labour Inspector participated in the rally. Speakers emphasized to stop child labour and give children a safe and secure childhood. There is need to work together to eradicate child labour and mainstream them through quality education. Though the Government & Civil Society Organisations of Odisha are taking up various steps for development of children and eradication of child labour but it is not sufficient enough to deal with such a big issue. Awareness and participation in the part of every concerned citizen can go a long way to eradicate child labour completely from the society. Every child deserves a safe and secure childhood; it is their most basic right stressed by the speakers. Hundreds of youth participated in this rally. Mr. Jyotisankar Mohanty, Mr. Prashant Kumar Mallick, of PECUC facilitated the programme.

ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ବାର୍ତ୍ତା ପ୍ରସାର ପାଇଁ ଅଭିନେତ୍ରୀ ଭୂମିକା ଓ ଖେଳାଳି ଅଂଶିକା ପିକକ୍ ର ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର

ପିପୁଲସ୍ କଲ୍ଚରାଲ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍), ଜାତିସଂଘ ର  ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ନିମନ୍ତେ ସମ୍ମିଳନ (ଇଉଏନସିଆରସି), ଦ୍ଵାରା ପ୍ରେରିତ ହୋଇ ଓଡିଶା ତଥା ସମଗ୍ର ଦେଶରେ ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କର ଅଧିକାରର ସୁରକ୍ଷା ନିମନ୍ତେ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟରତ। ପିକକ୍ ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କ ସହିତ ମିଶି ସେମାନକୁ ପ୍ରେରଣା ଦେବା ସହିତ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ବିକାଶ, ସୁରକ୍ଷା, ଭାଗିଦାରୀତା, ତଥା ଏକ ଗୁଣାତ୍ମକ ମନର ଜୀବନ ନିମନ୍ତେ   ନିମନ୍ତେ ସଦା ସର୍ବଦା ଚେଷ୍ଟିତ। ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାରର ର ସୁରକ୍ଷା ପାଇଁ ପିକକ୍ ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡାର ର ପରିକଳ୍ପନା ୨୦୧୦ ମସିହାରୁ କରିଅଛି। ସେମାନେ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ର ସୁରକ୍ଷା ଓ ଯୁବ ଗୋଷ୍ଟି ମାନଙ୍କର ସମସ୍ୟା ତଥା ଶିକ୍ଷା, ଉତ୍ତମ ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ,  ଖେଳିବା ପାଇଁ ନିରାପଦ ସ୍ଥାନ, ହିଂସା ଓ ନିର୍ଯ୍ୟାତନା ବିରୋଧରେ ଜନସଚେତନତା ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରିବେ। ଓଡିଶା କୁ ଏକ ଶିଶୁ ଉପଯୋଗୀ ରାଜ୍ୟ ଭାବେ ଗଢିବା ନିମନ୍ତେ ପରିବେଶ ସୃଷ୍ଟିରେ ସହାୟକ ହେବେ ।  

ବିଶିଷ୍ଟ ଅଭିନେତ୍ରୀ ଭୂମିକା ଦାଶ ଙ୍କୁ ଶିଶୁ ଅଧିକାର ତଥା ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କ ନିମନ୍ତେ ଅନୁକୂଳ ବାତାବରଣର ନିମନ୍ତେ ଓ ଖେଳାଳି ଅଂଶିକା ରାଉତରାୟ ଙ୍କୁ ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କର ଖେଳ ଅଧିକାର ତଥା କ୍ରୀଡାର ପ୍ରସାର ନିମନ୍ତେ ୨୦୧୯-୨୧ ପର୍ଯ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ଭାବେ ଘୋଷଣା କରାଯାଇଅଛି। ଏହି ଘୋଷଣା ୩୦ ଏପ୍ରିଲ-ଶିଶୁ ଶ୍ରମ ନିରୋଧ ଦିବସ ଦିନ  ଭୁବନେଶ୍ଵର ର ସ୍ଥାନୀୟ ଆଞ୍ଚଳିକ ବିଜ୍ଞାନ କେନ୍ଦ୍ରଠାରେ କରଯାଇଥିଲା। ଏହି ଅବସର ଉପଲକ୍ଷେ ଏକ ସ୍ଵତନ୍ତ୍ର ସମାରୋହ ସ୍ଥାନୀୟ ଆଞ୍ଚଳିକ ବିଜ୍ଞାନ କେନ୍ଦ୍ରଠାରେ ଆୟୋଜନ କରାଯାଇଥିଲା । ଏହି ସମାରୋହରେ ପିକକ୍ ର ସମ୍ପାଦକ ରଞ୍ଜନ କୁମାର ମହାନ୍ତି ସ୍ଵାଗତ ଭାଷଣ ଦେବା ସହିତ ଏହାର ଲକ୍ଷ୍ୟ ଓ ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ ସମ୍ପର୍କରେ ସୂଚନା ଦେଇଥିଲେ। ପିକକ୍ ର ଅଧକ୍ଷା ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ଆଦରମଣି ବରାଳ ଏହି ସଭାରେ ସଭାପତିତ୍ଵ କରିଥିଲେ ଏବଂ ଅନ୍ୟ ମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଅଲମ୍ପିୟାନ ଅନୁରାଧା ବିଶ୍ଵାଳ, ଡ॰ ସ୍ନେହପ୍ରଭା ସାମନ୍ତରାୟ, ବିଶିଷ୍ଟ ଓଡିଶୀ ନୃତ୍ୟଶିଳ୍ପୀ ତଥା ପିକକ୍ ର ଅନ୍ୟତମ ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶିକ ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଏଠାରେ ଉପସ୍ଥିତ ଥିଲେ।

ପିକକ୍ ର ପୂର୍ବତନ ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ଆକାଂକ୍ଷା କବି ନବ ନିଯୁକ୍ତ ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ଭୂମିକା ଦାଶ  ଓ ଅଂଶିକା ରାଉତରାଯ  କୁ ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ର ଉପାଧି ପ୍ରଦାନ କରି ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଭବିଷ୍ୟତ ନିମନ୍ତେ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା କାମନା କରିଥିଲେ।                  

“ଏହା ମୋ ପାଇଁ ଏକ ଗୌରବର ବିଷୟ, ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ଭାବେ ମୁଁ ଶିଶୁ ମାନଙ୍କ ନିମନ୍ତେ ଏହି ଅଭିଯାନରେ ସାମିଲ ହୋଇ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ କରିବା ପାଇଁ ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଆଗ୍ରହୀ” ବୋଲି ଅଭିନେତ୍ରୀ ଭୂମିକା ନିଜର ମତ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରିଥିଲେ।

“ମୋ ପରି ଶିଶୁ ମାନେ ଖେଳିବା ଆବଶ୍ୟକ ଓ ଖେଳିବା ସବୁ ଶିଶୁମାନଙ୍କର ଅଧିକାର।  ପିକକ ର ଗୁଡୱିଲ ଆମ୍ବାସଡର ରୂପେ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ କରିବା ମୋ ପାଇଁ ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଗୌରବର ବିଷୟ” ବୋଲି ଅଂଶିକା ନିଜର ମତାମତ ଦେଇଥିଲେ।      

ପିକକ୍ ର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟନିର୍ବାହୀ ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶିକା ଅନୁରାଧା ମହାନ୍ତି ଧନ୍ୟବାଦ ଦେଇଥିଲେ । ପିକକ୍ ର  ରତ୍ନା ଦାଶ, ଜ୍ୟୋତି ଶଙ୍କର ମହାନ୍ତି, ପ୍ରତୀକ୍ଷା ବୋହିଦାର,  ପାଣୁ ବେହେରା, ଡ॰ ସୁମିତ୍ରା ମହାନ୍ତି ପ୍ରମୁଖ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ର ପରିଚାଳନା କରିଥିଲେ ।               

PECUC Goodwill Ambassador for child rights promotion announced

Bhoomika Cine Actress  Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of child rights and Anshika  Sports person to promote right to play  

PECUC is devoted for promotion and protection of rights of the children guided by the framework of United Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). PECUC directly works with the children, to motivate children and strengthen their right to survival , development, protection & participation. In order to promote and strengthen the rights of children, PECUC has come up with the concept of the goodwill ambassador since 2010 to promote the rights of the children & build a child friendly environment. They will help to raise awareness of children’s rights such as right to education, safe places to play and learn and the impact of violence, bullying and poverty etc. The Goodwill Ambassador will be working towards promoting a child friendly environment through various actions & campaigns.

Eminent Actress  & 16 year old Bhoomika Dash has been announced as PECUC’s newest Goodwill Ambassador for promotion of child rights  for the year 2019-2021  & 14 year old  sports person Anshika Routray, as Goodwill Ambassador for  Promotion of Right of the Children to Play. It was declared on the occasion of   No Child Labour Day 30th April at Regional Science Centre, Bhubaneswar.

For this purpose a public announcement  ceremony was organized at Regional Science Centre, Bhubaneswar. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Eminent child rights Activist & Secretary PECUC, while giving brief on the purpose of Goodwill Ambassador Nomination, gave clarion call to all for working towards a child friendly Odisha & to end all sorts of violence on children. Ms. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC, gave the Welcome address. Mrs. Adaramoni Boral, Chairman, PECUC chaired the programme, among others Anuradha Biswal, Olympian, Dr. Snehaprava Samantaray, Eminent Odishi Dancer & Director PECUC were present in this ceremony.

Akankhya Kabi, previous Goodwill Ambassador of PECUC presented the SASH to both the new Goodwill Ambassadors with all her good wishes.

‘It’s a huge honour to join as PECUC’s Goodwill Ambassador and I am looking forward to campaign for  promoting the rights of children, to end child labour, promote quality education for all, to end violence on children & to promote a conducive environment where the children can lead a dignified life  ” said Bhoomika.

‘Children like me need to play & that is their right, it’s a huge honour for me to join as a Goodwill Ambassador of PECUC & promote the theme,’ Said Anshika

 Ms Ratna Dash, Mr J.S.Mohanty, Ms Pratikhya Bohidar, Mr Panu Behera, Ms Sumitra Mohanty of PECUC facilitated the programme.

Launching of state campaign for Rape free India
Rape, A National Emergency- CALL FOR ATTENTION! Viewed by speakers in a public dialogue

Women Political Participation and Representation in India- ADR 

15th Annual National Conference on Electoral and Political Reforms at Lukhnow

Witch-hunt victims’ memorial, Keonjhar

Children’s Manifestos for Election 2019

Voters Chetna Avijan : “Blue Button Express” launched

DISTRICT LEVEL WORKSHOP ON ADOLOSCENT HEALTH

State level workshop on Maternal, Neonatal and child health

Weeklong 29^th PECUC Sisumela  concluded

Create a better environment where every child  should feel safe, secure and well protected – Sj Prafulla Kumar Samal, Minister of W&CD Department Odisha

World day for prevention of child abuse Observed

Walk against Child Labour in Bhubaneswar City

6^th Day of 29^th PECUC Sisumela

Call for Prevention of Child Abuse

Fifth Day of 29^th PECUC Sisumela

Protect Ecology for Future Generation

Fourth day of 29^th PECUC Sisumela

Child Artiste Anjalideepa Satpathy got “Pilanka Akshaya Samman-2018

Third day of 29^th PECUC Sisumela

Call for Respect, Safety and Dignity of all on the occasion of International Day of Tolerance

2^nd day PECUC Sisumela: A day dedicated to street & working Children

PECUC’s 29th Sisu Mela:Week Long Children Festival Inaugurated

National Consultation on Right of Children to Safe and Quality Education

State level media workshop  by Odisha Election Watch and ADR 

State level media workshop  by Odisha Election Watch and ADR 

Bhubaneswar, 21/9/2018 ( Odisha Samachar )- : ALIBHA   Federation formed by women panchayat functionaries of Balianta & Bolagarh Block interacted with Media at Bhubaneswar . This workshop was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC)in collaboration with  The Hunger Project .The participants of this workshop were from the Women representatives of Balianta and Bolgarh Block of Khordha District , print and electronic media houses .The meeting was presided   by Ms Anuradha  Mohanty ,Executive Director, PECUC She gave emphasis on participation of women in the governance process  is need of the hour. Also She informed that PECUC is working with Elected women panchayat functionaries of 23 Panchayat and 223 women representatives of Balianta and Bologarh. She also informed that various trainings provided to the EWRs on finance management of Panchayat, Leadership building ,federation building  and Government schemes &programmes etc. to build their capacity & leadership. She informed that EWRs have solved 11 cases of violence against women, stopped 5 child marriage cases, linked people with various schemes of Govt & also have planted more than 1000 trees in their area.  Mrs. Rashmita Patra, President of AlIbha EWR federation of Blianta Block and Sarapanch of Benupur,  said she is continuously trying to make her panchayat alcohol free & violence free . Ms Babita Sahoo, Alibha-EWR federation  President & Sarapanch ,Bolgarh, discussed about the work of Alibha federation in stopping violence against women and also child marriage. . Dr  Meenakshi Panda, Director ,PECUC shared her thoughts & said that there is need of a supportive environment  & encouragement to women Panchayat functionaries so that they can also perform.

 The women representative also shared their success stories in the Workshop. The Naib Sarpanch Satyabhamapur ,MS sabitri sahu  shared that she could solved a domestic  violence case, Laxmipriya Sahoo  ward member of Bhainchua stopped a child marriage case , Bijayani Patra Ward member of Balianta solved a problem in her school as well as constructed a tube well in her area, Ward member of Puran Panchayat Swapna Bhoi send all the children of her ward to school and she also provided support to a poor cancer patient. The ward member of Puran panchayat , Shantilata Pradhan provided help and support to a Person with Disabilities (PWD). The ward member of Bhingarpur Gitanjali Das cited the problem of a poor people in getting Government sanctioned house. The ward member of Bolgarh Anjana Swain, who won in the unreserved seat told about the problem of people who are not included in any scheme of Government and she is trying hard to link them to get benefit. The Ward Member Puspalata Paikray  discussed about the solving of drinking water problem in her area. There are lots of success stories  &  challenges like this they shared . Media people also asked various queries and questions which was answered by the women panchayat functionaries. Mr Jyoti  Shankar  Mohanty, Programme Manger ,PECUC  Ms. Upama Mohanty and Bamadeva Jena  of PECUC  facilitated the workshop.`

Bhubaneswar (21/9/2018): Alibha Federation formed by women panchayat functionaries of Balianta & Bolagarh Block interacted with media here on Friday.

This media interface workshop was organised by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in collaboration with The Hunger Project. The participants of this workshop were from the women representatives of Balianta and Bolgarh blocks of Khordha district, print and electronic media houses.

Presiding the meeting, executive director, PECUC Anuradha Mohanty emphasised that participation of women in the governance process is need of the hour.

Mohanty informed that PECUC is working with elected women panchayat functionaries of 23 panchayats and 223 women representatives of Balianta and Bolagarh.

She said that various trainings are being imparted to the EWRs on finance management of panchayat, leadership building, federation building and government schemes and other programmes to build their capacity and leadership quality.

She further highlighted that EWRs have solved 11 cases of violence against women, stopped 5 child marriage cases, linked people with various schemes of government and planted more than 1000 trees in their area.

President of Alibha EWR Federation of Balianta block Rashmita Patra and sarpanch of Benupur Rashmita Patra said she is continuously trying to make her panchayat alcohol free & violence free.

Alibha-EWR Federation president and sarpanch of Bolgarh Babita Sahoo discussed about the work of Alibha Federation in stopping violence against women and also child marriage.

Director, PECUC Dr Meenakshi Panda shared her thoughts and said that there is need of a supportive environment and encouragement to women panchayat functionaries so that they can also perform. The women representative also shared their success stories and challenges of their localities. Naib sarpanch of Satyabhamapur Sabitri Sahu shared that she could solve a domestic violence case.

Similarly, ward member of Bhainchua Laxmipriya Sahoo has stopped a child marriage case, while ward member of Balianta Bijayani Patra solved a problem in her school and constructed a tube well in her area, Besides, ward member of Puran panchayat Swapna Bhoi stated that she has successfully sent all the children of her ward to school and provided support to a poor cancer patient.

Ward member of Puran panchayat Shantilata Pradhan provided help and support to a person with disability and ward member of Bhingarpur Gitanjali Das cited the problem of a poor people in getting government sanctioned house.

Apart from them, ward member of Bolgarh Anjana Swain, who won in the unreserved seat told about the problem of people who are not included in any scheme of government and said that she is striving hard to link them to get benefit.

Ward member Puspalata Paikray discussed about the solving of drinking water problem in her area.

Media persons also asked various queries and questions which was answered by the women panchayat functionaries.

Programme manager, PECUC Jyoti Shankar Mohanty, Upama Mohanty and Bamadeva Jena of PECUC facilitated the workshop.` .

ହିଂସା ଓ ନିଶାମୁକ୍ତ ପଞ୍ଚାୟତ ଗଠନ ଲାଗି ମହିଳା ଲୋକ ପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନଙ୍କୁ ନେଇ ଗଠିତ ମହାସଂଘ ଅଲିଭା ଫେଡେରେସନ ତାହାର ଉଦ୍ୟମ ଜାରି ରଖିଛି । ଆଗାମୀ ଦିନରେ ଅଧିକରୁ ଅଧିକ ମହିଳା ଲୋକ ପ୍ରତିନିଧିଙ୍କୁ ଏଥିରେ ସାମିଲ କରାଯିବ ବୋଲି ଆଜି ଏଠାରେ ମହିଳା ଲୋକପ୍ରତିନିଧି ଓ ଗଣମାଧ୍ୟମକୁ ନେଇ ଆୟୋଜିତ କର୍ମଶାଳାରେ କୁହାଯାଇଛି ।

ସ୍ୱେଚ୍ଛାସେବୀ ସଂଗଠନ ପିପୁଲ୍‍ସ କଲଚରାଲ ସେଣ୍ଟର (ପିକକ୍‍) ଓ ଦି ହଙ୍ଗର ପ୍ରୋଜେକ୍ଟର ମିଳିତ ସହାୟତାରେ ଆୟୋଜିତ ଏହି କର୍ମଶାଳାରେ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ଓ ବୋଲଗଡ ବ୍ଲକର ମହିଳା ଲୋକପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନେ ଯୋଗ ଦେଇଥିଲେ । ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ବ୍ଲକ ଅଲିଭା ଫେଡେରେସନର ସଭାପତି ତଥା ବେଣୁପୁର ସରପଞ୍ଚ ରଶ୍ମିତା ପାତ୍ର, ବୋଲଗଡ ଅଲିଭା ସଭାପତି ତଥା ବୋଲଗଡ ସରପଞ୍ଚ ବବିତା ସାହୁ, ପିକକ୍‍ର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟନିର୍ବାହୀ ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶିକା ଅନୁରାଧା ମହାନ୍ତି ଓ ପିକ୍‍କର ମିନାକ୍ଷୀ ପଣ୍ଡା ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଉପସ୍ଥିତ ଥିଲେ ।

ଉପସ୍ଥିତ ମହିଳା ଲୋକପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନଙ୍କୁ ଉଦ୍‍ବୋଧନ ଦେଇ ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ମହାନ୍ତି ଶାସନ ବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥାରେ ମହିଳା ପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନେ ନିଜ ସାମିଲ ହେବାକୁ ଆହ୍ୱାନ ଦେଇଥିଲେ । ସେ କହିଥିଲେ ଯେ ବାଲିଅନ୍ତା ଓ ବୋଲଗଡର ୨୩ଟି ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ୨୨୩ ଜଣ ମହିଳା ଲୋକପ୍ରତିନିଧି ଏହି ଅଭିଯାନରେ ସାମିଲ ଅଛନ୍ତି ।

ମହିଳା ଲୋକ ପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନେ କିଭଳି ସରକାରୀ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥା ବିଶେଷକରି ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ଅର୍ଥ ପରିଚାଳନା ସଂକ୍ରାନ୍ତରେ ଭଲଭାବେ ବୁଝି ଉନ୍ନୟନ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକୁ ଆଗକୁ ନେବେ ସେ ସଂକ୍ରାନ୍ତରେ ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ ତାଲିମ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରାଯାଉଛି ।

କର୍ମଶାଳାରେ ଉପସ୍ଥିତି ମହିଳା ପ୍ରତିନିଧିମାନେ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ସଫଳତାର ଅଭିଜ୍ଞତା ବର୍ଣ୍ଣନା କରିଥିଲେ । ବେଣୁପୁର ସରପଞ୍ଚ ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ପାତ୍ର ନିଜ ଅଞ୍ଚଳକୁ ନିଶାମୁକ୍ତ କରିଥିବାବେଲେ ଏଥିପାଇଁ ପିକକ୍‍ ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ ସାହସ ଯୋଗାଉଥିବା କହିଥିଲେ ।

ବୋଲଗଡ ସରପଞ୍ଚ ବବିତା ସାହୁ ନାରୀ ନିର୍ଯ୍ୟାତା ଓ ବାଲ୍ୟ ବିବାହ ରୋକିବା କ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଅଲିଭା ଫାଉଣ୍ଡେସନର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ ସଂକ୍ରାନ୍ତରେ ଉଲ୍ଲେଖ କରିଥିଲେ । ସତ୍ୟଭାମାପୁରର ନାଏବ ସରପଞ୍ଚ ସାବିତ୍ରୀ ସାହୁ ନିଜସ୍ୱ ଉଦ୍ୟମରେ ଘରୋଇ ହିଂସାର ସମାଧାନ, ଭଇଁଚୁଆ ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ଲକ୍ଷ୍ମୀପ୍ରିୟା ସାହୁ ବାଲ୍ୟବିବାହ ରୋକିବା, ବାଲିଅନ୍ତାର ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ବିଜୟିନୀ ପାତ୍ର ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟରେ ଥିବା ଅସୁବିଧାକୁ ଦୂର କରିବା ସହିତ ଘରୋଇ ହିଂସା ରୋକିବା ଓ ଆବଶ୍ୟକ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ନଳକୂପ ଖନନ କରିଥିବା କହିଥିଲେ ।

ପୂରଣ ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ସ୍ୱପ୍ନା ଭୋଇ ନିଜ ଅଞ୍ଚଳର ସମସ୍ତ ପିଲାଙ୍କୁ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟକୁ ପଠାଇବା ସହିତ ଜଣେ ଦୁଃସ୍ଥ କର୍କଟରୋଗୀଙ୍କୁ ସହାୟତା କରିଥିବା ଦର୍ଶାଇଥିଲେ । ସେହି ପଞ୍ଚାୟତର ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ଶାନ୍ତିଲତା ପ୍ରଧାନ ଭିନ୍ନକ୍ଷମଙ୍କୁ ସରକାରୀ ସହାୟତା କରିଥିବାବେଳେ ଭିଙ୍ଗାରପୁରର ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ଗୀତାଞ୍ଜଳୀ ଦାସ ଜଣେ ଗରିବ ଲୋକଙ୍କୁ ସରକାରୀ ଘର ପାଇବାରେ ଉପୁଜିଥିବା ପ୍ରତିବନ୍ଧକ ଦର୍ଶାଇଥିଲେ ।

ପୁରୁଷଙ୍କ ପ୍ରତିଦ୍ୱନ୍ଦୀଙ୍କ ସହିତ ଲଢି ବିଜୟୀ ହୋଇଥିବା ବୋଲଗଡ ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ଅଞ୍ଜନା ସ୍ୱାଇଁ ଯୋଜନାରୁ ବାଦ୍‍ ପଡିଥିବା ହିତାଧିକାରୀଙ୍କୁ ଭତ୍ତା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରିଥିବା କହିଥିଲେ । ୱାର୍ଡମେମ୍ବର ପୁଷ୍ପଲତା ପାଇକରାୟ ନିଜ ଅଞ୍ଚଳରେ ଜଳ ସମସ୍ୟାର ସମାଧାନ କଥା କହିଥିଲେ ।  

19 girls receive education materials under Masoom programme

District Level workshop on Violence Against women

One-third of women in the world are victims of violence. In India, a woman is raped in every 14 minutes, sexually abused in every 7 minutes & in every 4 minutes we witness violence against a woman. About 42% of women in the state of Odisha face physical or sexual violence. Even in this modern day and age, violence against women is still on the rise. They are not only being raped but kidnapped, sexually abused and also through domestic violence and dowry killings. The 16 Days Activism is an International Campaign that started in 1991. Since then, over 5,179 groups in 187 countries have taken part in this campaign. This Campaign provides each and every one of us with the opportunity to break the silence around violence against women. People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) a leading organization in the state collaboration with The Hunger Project    organized this “16 days of Activism” from 3^rd December to 9^th December 2017 on Violence against Women. This weeklong event launched a mobile van campaign at Balianta and Bolagarh Block of Khordha district to aware the people on the issues of VAW and more specifically domestic violence.

A District level workshop on  Violence against Women was organized by PECUC in collaboration with The Hunger Project on 9^th Dec. Prof. Adaramani Boral, Chairperson, PECUC chaired the meeting and Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC   said,”PECUC is taking initiative at different levels to address the issues to protect women from violence and abuses”.Esteemed Guest, Mr. Manas Ranjan Samal, Sub-Collerctor, Bhubaneswar  addressed the gathering that the domestic violence issues can be solved by creating awareness among all sections of people. Mr. Ashok Dash (Spl Secretary, State Election Commission), Member Women Commission Ms. Snehanjali Mohanty, Mrs. Rasmiprava Mishra (DV Protection officer) Khordha Dist, addressed the gathering and appreciated the campaign for raising awareness among people regarding how to get information and access the services to end violence against women. Also they spoke on DV act and role of Women Commission & Protection Officer. Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director gave welcome address and shared the objective of the workshop and weeklong campaign.

In this campaign more than 100 women PRI’s, SHG leaders participated and shared views on  panchayat should be given adequate power for giving marriage certificate, birth certificate  etc; formation of  Sexual Harassment committee at panchayat level; single/divorced women, unmarried girls/ widow’s life should be protected; every panchayat should have separate toilets for women; two-child norm at Panchayati Raj system should be completely banned. Mrs. Ratna Dash,traesurer PECUC gave vote of thanks and the programme was facilitated by PECUC team Member  Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Pulak Mishra, Upama Mohanty, Bamadeva Jena and Chinmayee Pattanayak.

19^th November is being observed as the   “World day for prevention of child abuse” all over the world.  Theme for this year:- “ Prevention of Violence against Children and Youth”.

Child abuse is a major cause of concern , which creates barrier for free growth of children. Adding to different form of exploitation, exclusion issues have played major role in damaging the child hood of millions of children.  Violence against children takes many forms i.e Child labour, child trafficking, Corporal punishment, sale of children, sexual abuse, child prostitution, neglect, child sex tourism, malnutrition,  bullying, child pornography, harmful traditional practices, abduction, early and forced marriage   etc.

Atleast 3 of every 4 of the world’s children have experienced violence .Child labour is one of the worst forms of violence against children. The ILO’s Statistical Information and Monitoring Program on Child Labor recently estimated that 211 million children, or 18 % of children aged 5-14, are economically active worldwide. 60% of these working children live in Asia, and 23% live in sub-Saharan Africa. Most economically active children are employed in agriculture.

Child labor not only negatively affects a child’s health, but it also negatively impacts his/her ability to receive schooling and perform academically. When children are forced by their families to work, they no longer have the time to attend school. Though there are a significant number of children who go to school and work, the work may negatively impact their studies, told by many eminent dignitaries while addressing a programme held here today to mark the occasion.

 To mark the occasion   a “ Walk against child labour” , Fro Ram Mandir to Lower PMG and  Signature campaign and Human chain at Master Canteen Square  were  organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) a leading child right organization in collaboration with   the Labour Directorate, Govt. Of Odisha.   Inaugurating the walk and signature campaign Mr. Susanta Singh ,Minister of State ,Labour and Employees, State Insurance said that Child labour is the worst form of violence on children . We all need to work together to eradicate child labour and mainstream them through education .The Govt of Odisha is taking up various steps for development of children .However we all need to work together .Massive awareness required to eliminate child labour he emphasized. Mr. Ananata Narayan  Jena , Mayor , Bhubaneswar Muncipal Corporation   and Sj. Ashwini Das, Former Labour Commissioner  emphasized on coordination and Convergence between different departments and key stake holders,.

 While speaking on the occasion Eminent Journalist Mr. Pradosh Pattnaik , Ms, Sulata Deo , Former  Chairperson Social welfare Board , Film Producer and Director , Santosh Panda, Mr. Debasis Sit , Corporator , Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty Secretary , PECUC , Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty , Executive Director  , PECUC stressed that  it is our responsibility to aware people about not to engage children as child labour which destroy their childhood . It is the responsibility of the elders to give them safe child hood. Mr. B.B . Acharya from State Labour Institute  gave vote of thanks., A large number of youth from NSS, Utkal University , Ekamra college  , NIIS College  , BJB college and  member of women groups and youth volunteers participated in the programme.

Ms. Jyotirmayee Mohapatra and Mr. Jyotisankar Mohanty, Mr. Pulak Mishra  facilitated the programme.

This year the 19^th November is connected with the SDG target 16.2 (End abuse, Exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of Children) and also with the Universal Children’s day on 20^th November to speed up local, National and international event for better prevention and protection measures and elimination of violence and abuse against Children and Youth around the world by 2030.

Bhubaneswar: Children must dream to become great man during early stage of their lives and to fulfil the dream they should devote their effort in this direction. All parents, guardians and teachers should come forward to encourage their children in achieving their goal, told by eminent dignitaries while addressing to the Inaugural Ceremony of 28th year Sisu Mela (Children festival week) of People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) , a leading socio-cultural organization at Bhubaneswar begun at Ekarma Hat , Bhubaneswar. On Tuesday evening, while inaugurating the weeklong festival of PECUC they encouraged the children and emphasized that children must see the dream and accordingly they should engage themselves to achieve those. They said dedication, hard work and positive attitude are the key points behind all success and to be a responsible citizen all children should follow these principles. Addressing the children festival Dr. Debasis Panigrahi ,IPS, Director Vigilance told that parents have the responsibility to give life skill education to the children so that they fight against any odd towards success. Safe and happy childhood leads to good personality and boosting the inner quality of the children in future emphasized by Sj. Soumya Ranjan Pattnaik , Editor, Sambad & Mr. Pattnaik also point out to ensure safe child and happy childhoods for all children is the primary responsibility of parents and Govt . Sj Nirmal Chandra Mishra , Collector, Khordha emphasized that children must respect their parents as well as their birthplace & mother tongue. SJ Sachin Ramchandra Yadav ,IAS, Labour Commissioner said that it is the responsibility of all the elders to ensure smiling on the face of all children. Sj. Pradosh Pattnaik, President, PECUC sisu mela committee presided the inaugural function.Amongst others Mr. Sahadev Sahu , Former Chief Secretary Govt Of Odisha , Mrs. Kasturi Mohapatra (Chairperson of Odisha State Commission for protection of child Rights, Mr. Laxmi Narayan Nanda ,Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF ,Mrs. Ruby Rout , Country Director, Adoptions Centrum, Mrs Adaramani Boral, Chairman, PECUC , Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty , Secretary ,PECUC , Ms. Nikita Mishra and Ms. Akankshya Kabi goodwill ambassador for promotion of child rights , Cine artist Mr. Aryan Dash Kumar , Actress Bhumika Das , Labanya Das discussed different aspects. Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty , Secretary ,PECUC gave a brief introduction to the weeklong festival. Smt.Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director, PECUC extended vote of thanks followed by cultural program by children of culture department , Govt of Odisha under the direction Snehaprava Samantray , Chorus Unit -6 Govt girl’s high school , Sunrise public school , Royal Public school , Vicky dance group , Sarala Dance academy , Nrutya Upasanapitha and orchestra under the direction of Bhramarabara Dalei. The program was conducted by Ratna Dash , Jyotirmayee Mohapatra , Jyotisankar Mohanty , Srinibash Ghatuary, Ganeswar Singh , Monika Das of PECUC .
The festival will continue until 20 th Nov.

Urgent action is needed to tackle the Environmental   related issues and for preservation of Environment.  We need to intensify and accelerate action to  save energy, save water, Save our mother earth and preserve Environment.  And we need to do it by  our self as well as  together. These were viewed by eminent dignitaries in a two days Seminar  on “Environmental Preservation” organized by People’s Cultural Center(PECUC)  ,a leading civil society  organization of Odisha in association with Vishwa Yuvak Kendra, New Delhi  at Extension Training Centre ,Keonjhar .

            Purnachandra Mishra , Sub collector Keonjhar  inaugurated the seminar. Inagurating the seminar the sub collector said that “at the time when global warming is an important issue in the world organising such types of seminar really appreciable. It will help to preserve the valuable forest and environment to get relief from global warming issue.

            Dr. Banabihari Mishra, expert member district level environment impact appraisal committee narrated detail about the causes and remedies of global warming issue that grip whole world now days. He also appeal the youths to come forward to fight back the situation with adopting small small practices in their house and society and to aware the remedies among others in their house and society.

Er Ripu Kumar Sahu, environment engineer,State Polution control board ,Keonjhar narrated all about the causes of environment degradation and its remedies, He also narrated the different government policies and laws implemented to protect the environment.

Giving opening remarks on the the second day Mr. Nrusingha charan Swain,Project Director,DRDA,that we need to effectively manage our natural resources in a sustainable maner ,other wise it will be create disastrous situation in future even if it will be difficult to take breath.  Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty Secretary chaired the session. Rajeev Nirmal, program officer of Viswa Yubak Kendra gave introductory remarks. Amongst others Prof Balaram panigrahi, HOD,Soil and conservation engineering department,OUAT, Dr Umashankar Nayak, senior scientist, Regional research training and transfer system,bhadrak, Dr sanjaya kumar mohanty, senior scientist, KVK,Balasore, DR Gayadhara Shial, forestry expert, KVK, Social activists, Academicians, CSO functionaries , Representatives of NSS of different colleges and ECO SAVERS youth network spoke on the occasion. Jyotirmayee Mohapatra, Program Manager, PECUC gave vote of thanks in the meeting.

A three day long convention to end violence against children organised by Odisha Alliance for child rights and National Action and coordination group in association with the Odisha State Commission for Protection of child rights 

Bhubaneswar: The three day long convention on Ending Violence against children at Bhubaneswar organised by Odisha
Alliance for Child Rights and National Action and Coordination Group to end violence against children in partnership with
Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights , came to an end with children and adults sharing their
observations , hopes , aspiration and concerns before a larger media .
Over the last three days children and adults had worked closely on issues that affect children the most like , child protection ,
child marriage , Child trafficking , child labour , migration, children children safety in educational institution .They also
discussed on the safety and security of children in disaster situation .
Children by their natural physiological and social position are high on the vulnerability factor.Even during regular times their
dependency on others and the instinct to be influenced by others heightens this vulnerability , children observed in their
consultation . This confirms the fact that the vulnerability of children is much higher in a disaster situation, be it natural or
man made .
While discussing on the issue of child marriage in the state which was affecting lives of children at large , it was learned that
the matter of child marriage in Odisha was least discussed .Many communities practice child marriage soon after the girl
child attains puberty .Further it has been a higher concern in district with high women illiteracy .
As a result of consultation both adults and children came up with their well documented recommendations which were
shared before the invited guests . Children , in their recommendations had pointed out the challenges of reaching of the
benefits of government schemes to the grassroots in addition to the lack of accessibility to children even when they reach
the point of implementation .They had observed that there was a need by the system to see that the provisions were
reaching the children . Promotion of 1098 , the phone number of ChildLine be made more extensive by creating awareness
on the service at the anganwadi & school level , they felt . While child labours were rescued from different places , the
system had no adequate space & provision to rehabilitate them properly .This was the reason why children return to become
child labour .They suggested for opening centres for rehabilitation at district level with support to be there with the children till
they were in the development process without compromising their childhood opportunities .Children came up with
suggestion that there was a need of opening of child protection committee at the village level with children being must
members in them .
Efforts of children and adults working together in realising a greater reality was appreciated by all including the guests on the
dais .Addressing the valedictory session Sj. Subash Singh ,Chairman, Building and Construction workers welfare board
emphasised on the spending of MP ,MLA Lad fund for building school infrastructure.
The valedictory function was presided by Ranjan Mumar Mohanty ,Chairman,Odisha Alliance for child Rights and addressed
by Dr. Chiranjeev Kakoty,Cairmaan,NACG-EVAC, Sj.Prasanth Reddy,IAS,Director,Social welfare,Women and children
Development Department,Mr.Chudamani Seth,IAS,Director, Elementary Education. Usharani Behera moved vote of thanks.

Press Release

The 12th State Level Convention of Odisha Election held on 4^th September 2016 at IDCOL House Auditorium, Bhubaneswar in collaboration with National Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms. This year’s Focal Theme for discussion was “Transparency in Finances of Political Parties & panchayat election 2017 issues & concerns”. In the inaugural session, Sj. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Coordinator, Odisha Election Watch, welcomed the guests and said that Odisha Electon Watch has evolved as a strong network that aims at further promoting free and fair election. Sj. Ananta Charan Nayak, IAS, Addl. CEO-cum-Addl. Secretary, Home (elections) dept. highlighted on the active participation of all stakeholders to ensure free and fair election. Sj. Rabindra Nath Sahu, OAS, Secretary State Election Commission said that voters must exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process. Prof. Trilochan Sastry,Founder  Trustee of Association of Democratic reforms  says “He who plays the piper decides the tune. If the donors to parties are unknown, details of those controlling the functioning of such parties is also unknown, which is very worrying. If the parties claim to be doing public service by contesting elections, it is very worrying that 80% of their funds is unknown. It is not a very healthy state of affair when the parties’ finances are not in public domain.” Sj. Sahadev Sahoo, IAS (Retd), Ex-Chief Secretary and core team member (OEW) emphasized on more turn over in ethical voting and increased youth participation in the voting process that can bring about a great difference. Sj. Khyamakar Swain gave the vote of thanks in the inaugural session.

In the first technical session, Transparency in finances of political parties was chaired by Sj. Dillip Bisoi, Senior Journalist. In the panel, Prof. Surya Narayan Mishra, core team member (OEW) gave emphasis on youth participation to ensure transparent governance and reduce the number of political parties. Sj. Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, Ex-MP, Editor-Sambad, and President, Aama Odisha, said that mass psychology has to be changed and election campaign days have to be reduced. Sj. Panchanan Kanungo, Former Finance Minister said that panchayat election should be free from involvement of any political parties and elections should be purely state-funded to check corruption. Sj. Sameer Mohanty, Vice-President, BJP, said that political parties should have inner party democracy. Capt. Dibya Shankar Mishra, MLA and Spokesperson, BJD highlighted on the importance of information dissemination at grass root level and the youths should take the forefront in the political process. Prof. Kailash Chandra Acharya, Chief Spokesperson, INC. Odisha said that all the elections should be held in the same period to dual expenditure. Sj. Santosh Das, State Secretariat Member, CPI (M) said that all political parties should be transparent in terms of public fund utilization and declare the same in the public domain. Sj. Baishnav Charan Parida, Ex-MP, BJD, said that political parties are accountable to public, hence, they must adopt to the ethical election process. Sj. Souribandu Kar, State Secretariat member, CPI said that state funding is highly necessary to check corruption. In addition, he highlighted the importance of auditing these election funds for further transparency.

In the second panel, themed Panchayat elections and role of civil society organizations, under the chairmanship of Sj. Baikuntha Panigrahi, Ex-DDG, Doordarshan, Mrs. Chandana Das, Head-CWS, Sj. Sudarshan Das, Agami Odisha, Sj. Biswajit Padhi, Srusti-Nuapada gave valuable suggestions to take the campaign ahead. The afternoon session was themed on Free and fair Panchayat elections 2017-Issues and concerns, held under the chairmanship of Sj. Hrudaya Ballav Das, Former Judge. Sj. Sanjeev Hota, IAS (Retd), Former State election commissioner, Odisha, said that people have interest in Panchayat election, because they have easy access to the elected members. He also said that emphasis should be led on awareness of voters as well as political parties on the election process and procedures. Among others, Sj. Ganeswar Behera, Former minister, INC-Odisha, Sj. Sashi Bhusan Behera, MLA, Spokesperson, BJD, Sj. Sajjan Sharma, Chief spokesperson, BJP, Sj. Tejaswar Parida, BJD, Mrs. Tapasi Praharaj, State Committee member, CPI (M), Sj. Ramakrushna Panda, State Committee member, CPI all emphasized free and fair elections in the panchayats can only be possible with voters awareness and participation in huge numbers. 

Conservation & management of Water Resource is essential – Opinion by different Eminent Personalities in the state level workshop of Eco-savers Youth Network and PECUC

Bhubaneswar – 30^th July 2016: Water conservation is essential for our future generation, Sj Pradeep Jena, IAS, Principal Secretary of Water Resource Department, Govt of Odisha told in the today’s state level workshop.

A statelevel workshop on “Water Resource Management- save water & save live” is organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) with the support of Adoptions Centrum in collaboration with ECOSAVERS Youth Network at Redcross Bhawan, Bhubaneswar.  Sj Pradeep Jena, Senior administrator & Chief Guest advised the youths for proper use and management water which can help conservation of water. Odisha have 11% of water out of total water in India. But it is unfortunate that the people of Odisha still suffer water deficiency. Efforts must be from both Government and private level for prioritizing water conservation.

Sj Dillip Kumar Routray, Joint secretary, Govt of Odisha told that mass awareness is required for water conservation and proper utilization. Youths must act as change maker for a green and healthy world. Adoptions Centrum Country Director Mrs. Rubi Rout told that we are misusing the water used in our home. In this regard, it is essential to reuse the waste water. Among others, participating in the discussion, Dr Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Expert and Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC told that efforts and steps must be taken from every level to stop misuse of water and conserve water to ensure a safe and healthy life. Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC coordinated the workshop. Among others, Mr. Jyoti Shankar Mohanty and Ms. Jyoti Mohapatra of PECUC managed the programme. 75 youth representatives from ECOSAVERS Youth Network members from different districts of State participated in the workshop.

Labour Minister calls for Child Labour free Bhubaneswar City “Together we all should work and join hand to end child labour in Bhubaneswar city”, was the message given by Sj. Prafulla Kumar Mallick, Minister Labour and ESI, Steel and Mines, Odisha. While inaugurating a signature campaign through a pledging banner on the occasion of World Day against Child Labour today, Mr. Mallick gave this message to the public by writing this message. The program was organized by People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC) in cooperation with Odisha Alliance for Child Rights, Rotary Club of Heritage Bhubaneswar, and National Action on Coordination group to end violence against children. Amongst others, Bhubaneswar Mayor Sj. Ananta Narayan Jena, Sj. Priyadarshi Mishra, MLA, Ms. Rajalaxmi Das, Ms. Sandhyabati Pradhan, Members, Odisha State Commission for Child Rights, Snehanjali Mohanty, Member, Odisha state commission for women, Olympiad Anuradha Biswal, Rtn Debabrata Panigrahi, many other celebrities joined the program. In pledge banner in which it was mentioned that “I do hereby pledge that I shall not employ any child in my home, office, establishment and worksite. I shall make all efforts to eliminate child labour,” signed by hundreds of people from different works of lives. On this occasion, Mr. Priyadarshi Mishra flagged off the “Walk for Children”, a mini walkathon. This walkathon was participated by a large number of youths. Hundreds of children participated in a special event titled as “Children Together against Child Labour” in which the children showed “red card” to child labour. Colourful cultural programs performed by children to create awareness against employment of children. “This year world day against child labour focuses on eliminating child labour in supply chains and it requires the commitment of governments, workers and employer’s organizations and enterprises themselves”, told by Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC and Chairman, Odisha Alliance for Child Rights. “The world day is an opportunity to shine a light on what can be done to keep child labour out of supply chains”, he added.

PECUC at Rahagiri

PECUC celebrated International Family Day on 15th May 2016 at rahagiri.

PECUC at Rahagiri-Red card by child labour-Dance Workshop for children-Theme of the programme was care for change. Many children showed their inner talents at "children corners-show your talent". Children were fully mesmerised into the paintings, games and other activities organised by PECUC & Rotary Club of Heritage Bhubaneswar

World Day against Child labour observed- Quality Education and Awareness can bring change Date. 12th June, 2015, Bhubaneswar A large number of children still are engaged in labour. Children are not meant to be labourers. This takes away their childhood. Every child must be stopped from stepping in to any form of labour – this is hazardous for any child, anywhere. It is every child’s right not to be a labourer. “We often come across child labour incidents in television and news papers which are only tip of the iceberg many more remains unreported. The number of child labour in the state is much higher than the statistical data we have. Complete elimination of child labour is only possible by understanding the situation of a child in which a she/he pushed to became a child labour and addressing the issue through appropriate means” opined by Sri Arun Kumar Sahoo, Minister, Panchayatiraj & Law, Government of Odisha. On the eve of World Day against child Labour People’s Cultural centre (PECUC),a leading civil society organisation, National Centre for Child Rights (NCCR) organised a Public Discourse on “Elimination of Child Labour Through Quality Education-Reality, Challenges & Prospects” at Jayadev Bhawan, Bhubaneswar in cooperation with TdH(G) and AEI. Education can be prerequisite for eliminating child labour opined by Sj. Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, secretary, PECUC and Chairman, NCCR while sharing the purpose and introductory note. He also focused although the number of child labour is reducing but in a slow pace. The reduction rate is 2.2% per year only. Sj. Mahendra Kumar Mallick, State Project Director, OPEPA briefed the audience about various government interventions to reduce child labour and to increase attendance. Mrs. Rajalaxmi Das, Member, OSCPCR said OSCPCR has important role in rescuing and rehabilitating child labours in the state and also monitoring schools for 100% enrolment upto age of 14. Mr. P.K Mohapatra, Assistant labour Commissioner focused on convergence among different stakeholders highly required to end child labour.Eminent Trade Unionist Mr. Souribandhu Kar, said there is a need of legislation to complete ban on child labour along with budget allocation. He also focused for appointment of trained and equally remunerated teachers to ensure quality education. Dr. Debiprasanna Pattnaik gave importance on mother tongue education from childhood to ensure quality learning of a child. Prof. Adaramani, Boral, Chairperson, PECUC said each and every citizen need to be responsible enough for elimination of child labour from our society. The technical session chaired by Prof. Prabir Pattnaik on a note the child labour situation can be changed if parents and duty bearers act sensitively. In this session experiences on eliminating child labour and quality education shared by Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, PECUC; Sj. P.K Mohapatra, ALC; Mr. Sribachha Patel, OPEPA, Usharani Behera, BGVS, Pratap Chandra Swain, HM & Bijay Kumar Pradhan SMC Memnber, Bangdagaon primary school. Amongst other panellist Dr. Bijay Ku. Bohidar; Prof. Shribatsa L. Jena, former Director, SCERT; Dr. Bikash Das, Advocate spoke on the issues promoting social protection measures to encourage school attendance; fostering safe and quality learning environment - challenges and prospects and ensuring coherence and enforcement of laws on child labour and school attendance. More than three hundred participants from NSS Volunteers & Programme Officers from Utkal University and +2 council , PRI Members, Educationists, civil society group members, teachers, academics, trade unionist, media etc participated in the programme. Ms. Jyoti Mohapatra, Sunanda Biswal from PECUC extended vote of thanks. Mr. Jyoti Mohanty , G.Singh, Anisha Mitra, Jayashree Moharana from PECUC supported in organising the programme

World Aids Day

Walkathon child right-Signature Campaign

Observation of the International day for older person Date 1.10.2015: The older people above 60 years of age and there percentage will increase up to 21.5% in the world by 2050. At present, the population of older people more than 60 years in the world is 901 million and by 2030 it is expected to rise by 1.4 billion. 16.5% of older people population of the world will live in developed countries. By 2050, it will be 2.1 billion. Nowadays, throughout the world people are moving to urban sector. Out of 10 people, 5 will be living in the urban areas by the end of 2030. It is being expected that by 2050 around 900 million older people who are at the age of more than 60 will reside in the urban areas. Every year International day of Older Persons is observed throughout the world on 1st October. The objective of this is day to create awareness, providing them security in the family and society, as a result of which they can get their rights and lead a life of dignity. Some of the important work contributed by older people is supporting family, volunteering, experience and knowledge sharing & upgrade the upcoming generations. Today, People’s cultural Centre [PECUC] along with Rotary Club of Heritage, Bhubaneswar, and SSB Hospital organized an eye check up camp at Johala village near Pahala. Mr B.K. Sahu, the Director of SSB hospital spoke how to take care of one's eyes and how important this is for any person. Also kitchen garden seeds and plants were distributed to them. Mrs. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC said that, “The elderlies should not be treated as liabilities and different programmes can be carried out for bringing the older people into the mainstream of the society”. Sri.Dibyarajan Das, of Rotary Heritage said that, “older people are part of society and family therefore everyone should respect them.” In this programme more than 100 nos. of older men and women had participated.

An Workshop on Violence against Women was organized by PECUC in collaboration with The
Hunger Project on 4th Dec, where the Chief Guest, Mr Sashi Bhusan Behera, Honble MLA
flagged up the mobile campaign van and addressed the gatherings that the domestic violence
issues can be solved by creating awareness among all sections of people.Member Women
Commission Mrs Snigdha Panigrahi, Ms Snehanjali Mohanty , Mrs Rasmiprava Mishra ,[DV
Protection officer] Khordha Dist,Prof Adaramani Boral ,Chairman PECUC addressed the
gatherings and appreciated that the campaign van is going to villages where people can get
information and access the services to end violence against women. Also they spoke on DV
act ,Women commission role & protection officer role .
Mr.Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary PECUC chaired the session, and said,” PECUC is taking
initiative at different level to address the issues to protect women from violence and abuses.
Ms.Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director gave welcome address and share the objective of
the workshop and weeklong campaign .
In this launching programme more than 100 women PRI’s, SHG leaders from Balianta &
Bhubaneswar Block participated and by putting messages on the signature banner on the
issues. Also handed over their demand notes to guests present on the occasion. The demands
are i.e. panchayat should be given adequate power giving birth certificate, marriage
certificate, caste certificate, death certificate etc; formation of prevention of Sexual
Harassment committee at panchayat level ; single/divorced women, unmarried girls/ widow’s
life should be protected; public hearing on Food Security Scheme should be with Panchayat;
every panchayat should have separate toilets for women; two-child norm at Panchayati Raj
system should be completely banned; panchayat office should be open from 10.00 am to 5.00
pm so that people can access services easily.
The programme was facilitated by PECUC team members Mr. Jyoti Sankar Mohanty, Panu
Behera, Upama Mohanty, Pradipta Beura, Pragyan Swain.

Odisha Election Watch received National CSO Award 2015 from Election Commission of India

Budget for children need to be increased in State Budget- Odisha Alliance for Child Rights

In Odisha as per the recent census, children constitute 38.8% of total population. They represent not just Odisha’s future, but are integral to securing Odisha’s present. Yet development indicators continue to show slow progress towards securing their welfare and delivering their basic rights. Hence, it is important to both protect and increase expenditures to promote child rights viewed by the participants and speakers in the state consultation on ‘child budgeting’ today organised by Odisha Alliance for Child Rights(OACR), an alliance of child rights groups and networks at Red Cross Bhawan. While welcoming the decision of State Govt. to ask suggestions from public for the 2016-17 budget through website and SMS, Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Chairman of Odisha Alliance for Child Rights told that there is still huge gap between the money needed to fulfill the rights of children in the State and money promise to the budget, and between allocation and actual expenditure, to incapacities in programme delivering mechanism. Mr.Surendra Sahoo, Senior Research Fellow, CYSD-OBAC gave a presentation on “Budget for Children in Odisha Context- Trend & Future Prospective”. While speaking on the occasion, Laxmi Narayan Nanda, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF; Mrs. Rubby Rout, Adoption Centrum, Ashis Sarkar, CRY-Kolkata, Maitrayee Mondol , Save the Children; Debendra Kumar Swain, Aide-et- Actions focused on increase of investment for children in various sectors including child health, child development, child education and children in difficult circumstances. The participants also emphasized on allocation of finances for implementation of state plan of action for elimination of child labour, specialized health care system for new born at different level, more observation homes in the state, residential child care institutions at source and child care and learning centres at destination point to address the issues of children in migration, allocate adequate finances to implement the norms of Right of children to free and compulsory Education Act, child care institutions for children with disability etc. Amongst others Prakash Rath, Vice-Chairman, OACR from OLS, Kshyamakar Swain, Secretary, OVHA, Harihar Nayak, CCRP, Child representatives Puja Das, Santoshini Behera, Rosy Behera, Deepa Sahoo participated in the deliberation.

District Media Workshop on Maternal-Neo-Natal Child Health, Bolangir, 27-8-15

Electoral Reform for Elections to Panchayatiraj institutions need of the Hour
11 th State Conference of Odisha Election Watch held

Date-22nd July 2015     Venue-Red Cross Bhawan, Bhubaneswar

District Media Workshop on Maternal-Neo-Natal Child Health-Boudh

Orgnised By- PECUC-NCCR

Supported By- UNICEF Odisha

Dae-3-06-2015 

Organized by: People's Cultural Centre (PECUC) & SOS Children Village, Bhubaneswar

Organised by: People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC)

                       &  Rotary Club of Bhubaneswar Heritage

Organised By: People's Cultural Centre (PECUC) and National Centre for Child Rights

Supported by: UNICEF Odisha

EWR INTERFACE WORKSHOP WITH MEDIA

On the occasion of Green consumer Day ECOSAVERS Youth Network, Bhubaneswar Unit   an initiative of people’s Cultural Centre  [PECUC] observed the day in collaboration with NSS wing IMS, Bhubaneswar, and Rotary Heritage of Bhubaneswar in IMS campus . 28^th September is observed as the Green Consumer Day. On this day awareness is made to encourage purchasing only eco-friendly products which does not pollute the environment and makes you a Green Consumer.

Consultation Workshop on Positive Parenting & Non-Violent Discipline in School Situations

Observation of  World Day against Child labour

Observation of  World Day against Child labour

Workshop on Rights of the Aged-4

workshop on Rights of the Aged-2

workshop on Rights of the Aged

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency8

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency7

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency6

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency5

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency4

Consultation workshop on Child protection in Emergency3