Working as a teacher volunteer at a local shelter home, I saw a reality that was very different from mine - one that taught me to be grateful for the opportunities that I have and responsible for my duty as a human being - to extend the freedom and resources that I’ve been privileged with. Child safety and equity is a cause that I hold very close to my heart and my year as Miss India was a chance to magnify my work and passion!
Every year, India witnesses thousands of illegal child marriages, thousands of kids are orphaned, abandoned, abused, forced into child labour, or trafficked, and with COVID-19, these numbers had a drastic rise. Unfortunately, by the time people realise there are issues, it’s either too late, or they are unaware of how to offer any help. Last year, in association with Hyderabad City Police and Bharosa Support Center for Women and Child I launched the Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) project, 10-9-8.
Through this campaign, I hope to promote and create awareness about 1098, the Child Helpline number. It being the national hotline for Child Protection, has very low public awareness.
Over the years, I have volunteered with various NGOs. Connecting with these children made me appreciate the fact that behind every smile, behind every action, lies a story, and these stories - sometimes happy, but often sad — mold us. It is easy to pay attention to the way people look and act, but our fears and traumas are very personal experiences. So, I really want to reach out and make as many children feel safe.
My BWAP project 10-9-8 has been classified into three pillars.
The first pillar aims to create awareness of the child helpline hotline 1098. As a spokesperson for the campaign, I used social media, news, TV, and billboards to create awareness. My voice has also been recorded and played across 66 traffic signal junctions in Hyderabad.
The second pillar focuses on the challenges faced to respond in time to a rescue mission due to the lack of resources. The staff and volunteers often have to travel long distances using private taxis, which are expensive and not easily available, especially in rural parts of the states or public transportation, which can be inconsistent and experience long delays.
For the same, I initiated a fundraising initiative to procure vehicles for Telangana’s Women Development and Child Welfare (WDCW) department to strengthen the child protection system. As a result, with the guidance and approval of the state government, Telangana will now have a dedicated vehicle for the rescue operation in every district. Simultaneously, there has also been an outreach to businesses and individuals worldwide for financial support.
The third pillar is closest to her heart, is an essential part of my work, and revolves around the rehabilitation of the children, speaking to them, and lending them an ear. After a traumatic event, especially the death of a parent or years of neglect/abuse, feeling seen and heard is central to the victim’s healing process.
With a vision to ensure the highest levels of safety, access, rapid response, and awareness on child issues, I hope to continue building spaces where children feel warm, welcomed and encouraged to lead their best life! It’s been a tremendous journey so far and what I can say for sure - is that this is only the beginning!
