Arunachal Strengthens Child Protection Framework with Muskaan 2.0 Initiative

Building on the success of its flagship child protection campaign, Arunachal Pradesh Police’s East Siang unit has launched Muskaan 2.0, an expanded initiative aimed at strengthening child safety mechanisms and widening community participation in safeguarding children across the state.

Praising the programme, Home Minister Mama Natung said the first phase demonstrated the impact of coordinated action between institutions and local communities. According to the police, the initiative reached 16,897 students across 104 schools, equipping children with knowledge and confidence to respond to unsafe situations.

Implemented between October 2025 and March 2026 through the Police Ki Pathshala outreach programme, the first phase covered topics such as child rights, bodily autonomy, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, cyber safety, and anti-bullying measures.

The campaign also produced measurable outcomes. Police installed 104 Child Safety Complaint Boxes in participating schools, resulting in the counselling-based resolution of 45 non-POCSO complaints. Routine school visits further helped authorities identify and register three POCSO cases for formal legal action.

The initiative recently received appreciation from the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR). Police personnel additionally underwent 10 specialised training sessions on child-friendly policing, while students visited Ane’s Home, a child-friendly facility at the Women Police Station, and participated in live demonstrations of emergency helplines such as Dial 112, Childline 1098, and the Police Control Room.

Outlining the next phase, East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba said Muskaan 2.0 would focus on the active involvement of parents and teachers, recognising their crucial role in early identification of risks and timely intervention.

The expanded programme will use Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) for sensitisation, organise dedicated orientation sessions for educators on their legal responsibilities, and ensure