ICWO–Just Rights for Children Tamil Nadu Project training in Chennai

 Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) conducted the ICWO–Just Rights for Children (JRC) Tamil Nadu Project Induction Training Programme on 21st August 2026 at the ICWO Head Office, Anna Nagar West, Chennai.

The Induction Training programme brought together the District teams from seven districts of Tamil Nadu Chennai, Chengalpattu, Namakkal, Ranipet, Salem, Tiruvallur and Villupuram — to build a common understanding of the project objectives, child protection mechanisms, roles and responsibilities, performance expectations, financial procedures, documentation and reporting requirements.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mr. A. J. Hariharan , Founder and Secretary, ICWO, who welcomed all the participants and highlighted the organisation's long-standing commitment towards the protection and welfare of vulnerable children and communities. Ms. Shekinah Sidkeenu, Programme Director , ICWO–JRC Project , also addressed the participants and provided an overview of the organisation and the importance of the new initiative.

Mr. H. Natharsha Malim , State Coordinator – Tamil Nadu, Association for Voluntary Action (AVA) , provided an introduction to the ICWO–JRC Tamil Nadu Project and subsequently led sessions on Overview of JRC, Child Protection and Law, as well as Project Targets, Performance and Expectations . He explained the key responsibilities of the project team and interacted with the participants, responding to their questions and clarifying their doubts during the interactive sessions.

The programme also included a valuable sharing of field experience from the Salem Project, presented by Mr. V. Murugan from the Salem team. Their experience provided practical insights into field-level implementation and child protection interventions.

An important session on the Role of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Child Protection was facilitated by Mr. A. Bakthavatchalam, Executive Director, ARM and Former CWC Member, Chennai . The session helped participants understand the role of the CWC and the importance of appropriate coordination and referrals within the child protection system.

The orientation programme provided an opportunity for the district teams to interact with the resource persons, clarify their responsibilities and develop a common understanding of the implementation approach of the ICWO–JRC Tamil Nadu Project.

The active participation of the teams from all seven districts marked an important beginning towards strengthening coordinated child protection efforts across Tamil Nadu.

 The ICWO–JRC Project aims to strengthen child protection systems, promote prevention and early identification of risks, facilitate appropriate interventions and referrals, and ensure stronger coordination among stakeholders for the protection and rights of children.

 

ICWO–JRC 2026–2027: Rapid Child Rescue and Cross-State Coordination

On 20 August 2026, a group of labourers, including two children, was rescued in Chennai thanks to the quick action of the JRC network. The AVA team in Bihar gathered information and shared it with the JRC Partner ICWO in Chennai, which led to the immediate rescue of a child labourer from Bihar.

After the rescue, the child received counselling and was placed in a Government Boys Home in Chennai while age verification and legal processes were completed. This intervention highlights the effectiveness of the JRC network and state coordination in child protection. The ICWO expressed gratitude to the state coordinators for their roles.

The ICWO Founder Secretary expressed appreciation to Mr.Natharsha Malim, State Coordinator - AVA, Tamil Nadu, for his coordination and guidance, and to Mr. Santhosh, State Coordinator - AVA, Bihar , for facilitating the information-sharing and coordination through the Bihar JRC team. ICWO-JRC plans to continue rescue and rehabilitation efforts for children in need across states.

 

Government and Civil Society collaborate to end child marriage by 2030

Reaffirming the Government of India's commitment to end child marriage, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur said the Centre, in partnership with civil society organisations, is working towards achieving a Child Marriage-Free India by 2030.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the four-day national consultation, "Ensuring Child Rights, Potential and Prosperity," organised by Just Rights for Children at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, the Minister underscored the critical role of grassroots organisations in protecting children from exploitation, trafficking, child marriage and abuse.

The consultation has brought together representatives of more than 250 partner organisations from across the country, collectively working in all 782 districts of India to strengthen child protection systems and advance children's rights.

Addressing the delegates, Thakur described child protection as one of the country's most demanding responsibilities and praised frontline workers for rescuing children from exploitation.

"Saving even one child's life is among the noblest acts. Many young girls become victims of trafficking and never find their way back home. These children wait for someone to rescue them, and the volunteers of NGOs who rescue them from sexual exploitation are nothing short of angels," she said.

The Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made the elimination of child marriage by 2030 a national priority and that multiple initiatives are being implemented under the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign to achieve this goal.

Commending the work of Just Rights for Children, she said, "The contribution of Just Rights for Children towards realising the dream of a Child Marriage-Free India will remain unforgettable."

Speaking at the event, Lavu Krishna Devarayalu, Convener of MPs for Children and Parliamentary Party Leader of the Telugu Desam Party in the Lok Sabha, said India's campaign against child marriage has emerged as a model for the world.

"This is an extraordinary movement. India has demonstrated that ending child marriage is possible, and the campaign initiated by Just Rights for Children is now inspiring action beyond our borders," he said.

Highlighting the need to address emerging threats to children, Devarayalu also referred to his Private Member's Bill introduced in Parliament, which seeks to strengthen safeguards for children against the risks posed by social media.

"What began as a spark on 27 November 2024 with the launch of Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat has today become a nationwide movement. The movement has since evolved into a broader vision of empowering every child through justice, technology, leadership, and collective action. India is demonstrating that when governments, civil society, academia, communities, and young people unite behind a common purpose, change is inevitable. This is no longer just India's story; it is India's message to the world that investing in children is the most important investment any nation can make," said Bhuwan Ribhu, Founder, Just Rights for Children.

He added, "Every time we stop a child marriage in a village, we do more than protect one child. We send a clear message to the entire community that child marriage is a crime that has no place in a modern society. Over the last three years, together, we have prevented more than 5.5 lakh child marriages."

For more information contact Jitendra Parmar on 8595950825

 

TAMILAGA VETTRI KAZHAGAM - TVK CULTURAL WING CM TROPHIES 2026

On the happy event of the 52nd Birthday Celebrations of the People’s Leader and Honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, THIRU C. JOSEPH VIJAY  variety sports and cultural were held on 28th June 2026, Sunday  at Kambar Colony Ground, Anna Nagar, Chennai .

Thiru. POOKADAI S. K. M. KUMAR, Secretary of Chennai Central District presided over the function.The Guest of Honour was Thiru. JCD. PRABHAKAR, Honorable Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly

Special Guests present on the occasion were Thiru. V. K. RAMKUMAR, M. E. (AUS), MLA for Anna Nagar ,Thiru. PRATISH VEDHAPPUDI, Managing Director of VGN Group, Chairman of the HR Committee for the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, Mr.AR. HARSHITHA RAVI, M. ARCH (CPM), Founder and Chief Architect of The Hook Studio ,Dr.R. K. FLORENCE, PH. D, Principal of St. Thomas College of Arts & Science in Koyambedu  and Thiru. S. VARATHARAJ, CEO of ASR Sports Academy, President of the Tamil Nadu Badminton Court Owners Association. Prizes were distributed to the winners.

CRICKET SPORTS WINNERS:

Winner: Ayappakam select: Ayappakam

Runner-up: ACC: Agathiyar Nagar

3rd Place: Eternals: Kambar Colony

3rd Place: ANCC: Anna Nagar

BADMINTON SPORTS WINNERS:

1st Place: Murali/Vijaybabu

2nd Place: Bijju/Girish

3rd Place: Mani/Anand & Safi/Raja

Event organized by: BABA RAJAPALLAVI, President of TCA, TVK Cultural Wing. Media Coordination by: A. J. HARIHARAN , ICWO. The master of Ceremony and Coordination was Sriramji - President of YW Anna Nagar, KCWA

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World Day against Child Labour awareness programme at various workplaces

On the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour , the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), Salem , Tamil Nadu, in collaboration with Just Rights for Children (JRC), the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), and the District Labour Welfare Department , organized a large-scale child labour awareness programme at the Salem Collectorate and various workplaces in the Salem New Bus Stand area.

During the programme, a pledge against child labour was administered by Thiru. Ilambagavath, I.A.S. , District Collector, Salem, in the presence of Thiru. Ravikumar , District Revenue Officer ; Tmt. Shalini, Personal Assistant (General) to the District Collector ; Thiru. Raghavan, Assistant Commissioner of Labour (Enforcement) ; Thiru. Sankar, Social Security Scheme Officer;Thiru. Sri Murali, District Child Protection Officer ; and Thiru. Anbalagan, Labour Inspector.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. A.J. Hariharan,Secretary, ICWO, emphasized that child labour continues to deprive children of their fundamental rights to education, protection, health, and a dignified childhood. He stated that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential in a safe environment free from exploitation. He appreciated Just Rights for Children (JRC) for spearheading child rights initiatives and organizing impactful awareness programmes across India to combat child labour and child exploitation. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to the District Administration, DCPU, Labour Department, government officials, ICWO staff, volunteers , and all stakeholders whose dedicated efforts ensured the success of the programme. He reiterated ICWO's commitment to working collaboratively with government departments and civil society organizations to create a child labour-free society and protect the rights of every child.

 

World Environment Day was marked by creating a roof garden at a shelter home for homeless people

World Environment Day was celebrated by establishing a roof garden at a shelter home for the homeless, with participation from residents and staff. Key officials, including the Chief Community Development Officer and Assistant Engineers, attended the event.

The program included an awareness rally, two environmental dramas, and a song by the residents, which highlighted the importance of protecting the environment. The officials praised the inmates for their efforts.

A. J. Hariharan invited young people to join in creating awareness about environmental conservation alongside the Greater Chennai Corporation Shelter team. He expressed warm wishes to everyone dedicated to protecting the planet and emphasized that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility.

ICWO and CBM India Trust are working on a carbon mitigation project and providing smokeless cook stoves as part of initiatives for a greener future.

Lions Club donated supplies to ICWO administrated shelter for elderly homeless women

Lion. Dhamotharan, President, Lion. Rajesh, Secretary, Lion. Ramamoorthy, Treasurer, and Lion. Jayachandran, Former President, participated in an award function on March 1, 2026. The Lions Club of Chennai Sun Risers has worked for 16 years on projects for underprivileged children's education, climate change, and elderly care. They donated groceries, mats, and toiletries to an ICWO shelter for elderly homeless women in Chennai, which currently houses 35 residents. 

For supporting, contact Ms. S. Praveena at 98415-19982 or Mr. V. Vijayakumar at 98403-47890.

 

100-Day Intensive Child Marriage Awareness Campaign launched in Salem

Child marriage remains a serious violation of children's rights, particularly affecting girls by denying them education, health, and a safe childhood. Despite laws against it, the practice continues due to a lack of awareness and social issues, highlighting the need for public education and strong enforcement.

On January 30, 2026, a Child Marriage Awareness Campaign took place at the Annai Sathya Government Child Care Institution in Salem District. This event was organized by the District Administration, Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), and Just Rights for Children (JRC) as part of the national campaign called "BAL VIVAH MUKTI RATH. "

The campaign was flagged off jointly by Honourable Thiru. S. R. Sivalingam, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) & Honourable Thiru.D. Malaiarasan, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Kallakurichi Constituency who emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in protecting children and ensuring strict implementation of laws against child marriage.

During the event, copies of an Awareness Poster on Prevention of Child Marriage were presented to key officials. The poster outlines the Tamil Nadu Government’s initiatives to combat child marriage, including law enforcement and community monitoring. Mr. A. J. Hariharan from ICWO emphasized that awareness programs are vital for protecting children's rights and thanked JRC for their support.

The program reaffirmed the dedication of the district and civil society to ensure every child grows up safe and empowered. For further details, contact Mr. V. Murugan, Project Manager, ICWO – Salem, at 75020 27581.

ICWO donates shoes and shirts to Champions

The Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) distributed 20 pairs of sports shoes and T-shirts to powerlifting champions from MK Gym and Sports Academy. This effort aims to support athletes from underprivileged backgrounds who excel in competitive sports. The initiative, part of the “Right to Play” program, is supported by CAUSE India and sponsored by SG Sports, promoting equal access to sporting resources. 

Mr. M. Anandan, a national and Asian powerlifting champion, helped ICWO identify deserving athletes participating in state, national, and international competitions. Notable beneficiaries included Mr. M. Vijay, a powerlifter with multiple prestigious medals, and Ms. Khajavali, who has also received various esteemed awards in powerlifting. This initiative addresses the need for proper sports equipment, essential for athletes’ performance, safety, and confidence. 

Ms. P. Sudha, a participant for over seven years, expressed that receiving shoes was a first for her, highlighting the lack of support previously. Ms. D. Gopika conveyed her gratitude and emphasized that more athletes should benefit from such initiatives. In total, ICWO distributed 125 sets of shoes and T-shirts, along with other apparel, affirming its commitment to supporting athletes lacking sponsorship and recognition. 

ICWO encourages individuals, organizations, and CSR partners to reach out for further collaboration to support these powerlifting champions.

 

50 Sports shoes, facilitated through CAUSE India and distributed by ICWO

Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) distributed 50 pairs of sports shoes and T-shirts to underprivileged differently-abled women athletes with the help of CAUSE India under its “Right to Play” initiative, sponsored by SG Sports. The sports shoes were given to athletes at the Better World Shelter, run by the Dorcas Research Center NGO. 

Among the beneficiaries were two athletes who qualified for the Paralympics at Santiago, Chile, after competing in the World Para Powerlifting Championship 2025 in Cairo. Other athletes included participants in wheelchair racing, para athletics, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, and para table tennis, as well as members of the Tamil Nadu Blind Women’s Cricket Team. 

The initiative aims to support training needs and promote inclusive sports for persons with disabilities. CAUSE India aligns its work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and SG Sports supports grassroots sports through its CSR efforts. 

Mr. Sathish Nagappan and Ms. V. Neeta Maria from CAUSE India led the program. For support, contact Dr. Aiswarya, Dorcas Research Center at 96772 22277.

Under “Right to Play” Campaign ICWO gives sports clothes to 150 children

On January 3, 2026, the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), with the support of CAUSE India, provided sports shoes, hoodies, track suits, and T-shirts to 150 children from marginalized communities, 90% of whom were girls, in Anna Nagar, Chennai. This was part of the "Right to Play" campaign aimed at helping children who face socio-economic barriers to access sportswear and promote physical fitness and skill development.

Mr. Sathish Nagappan, CEO of CAUSE India, highlighted that the initiative creates a platform for underprivileged children to develop their sports skills. Ms. V. Neeta Maria emphasized the focus on empowering vulnerable children. SG Sports supported the campaign by providing quality sports apparel.

Mr. A. J. Hariharan, Secretary, Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), said, “Building strong, physically fit, and healthy young people is essential, as they are the future of our nation. This support will go a long way in nurturing their confidence and competitive spirit, helping them prepare, face challenges, and succeed in life. ICWO is proud to be part of this initiative, and I sincerely thank CAUSE India and SG Sports (Sanspareils Greenlands) for their invaluable support in empowering children through sports.”

Beneficiaries expressed their joy, stating that they feel more confident and happy with the new sports shoes. The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on health, education, and reducing inequalities, showing a commitment to fostering healthier, inclusive communities.

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