Sun Jul 06 15:55:22 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) has mandated that all schools and colleges across the state prominently display the Child Helpline number (1098) to increase awareness and accessibility for children in distress. This initiative aims to provide 24/7 emergency assistance to children facing abuse, exploitation, and other vulnerable situations, addressing concerns about rising cases of child marriages, teenage pregnancies, and various forms of abuse in homes, schools, and public spaces. The move has been welcomed by the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC), highlighting the importance of making children aware of this resource to protect themselves in emergency situations.
**News Article:**
**Karnataka Schools to Display Child Helpline Number Amid Rising Abuse Concerns**
**Bengaluru, July 6, 2025** – In a move to safeguard children and address escalating concerns about abuse and exploitation, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) has ordered all schools and pre-university colleges in Karnataka to prominently display the Child Helpline number 1098.
The directive, issued by Commissioner for Public Instruction K.V. Trilok Chandra, mandates that schools and colleges must write “Child Helpline – 1098” on their walls, include it as a footer on all textbook pages, display it on their websites, and announce it during morning assemblies.
“The government’s objective is to provide emergency services to children in distress and need of protection and nurturing,” stated Mr. Trilok Chandra. “This is a free phone call that children or the public can call and provide protection to children in need of emergency assistance.”
This initiative comes amid rising concerns about child marriages, teenage pregnancies, and various forms of abuse and harassment reported in homes, schools, and public places. Officials have emphasized the importance of children knowing how to access help in vulnerable situations.
Umesh G. Gangavadi, State president of the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC), has welcomed the decision, stating, “Even schools and colleges are not free of child exploitation. If the Child Helpline is always in front of their eyes, it will be helpful for them to call and protect themselves in emergency situations.”
The 24/7 Child Helpline 1098 provides emergency assistance to children in need of care and protection, offering a crucial lifeline for those facing difficult or dangerous circumstances. The DSEL’s initiative aims to ensure that this resource is readily accessible and known to all children across Karnataka.
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