Nothing for Children without Children. Keeping with this principle, and child rights high in the political agenda, child reporters of Jharkhand, with support of UNICEF today presented a comprehensive Children’sManifesto to Shri Rabindra Nath Mahato, Speaker of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, marking a critical push for prioritising children’s rights and well-being.

The Children’s Manifesto, developed with inputs from over 700 children across the state through consultations facilitated by UNICEF and NINEISMINE, reflects children's concerns, aspirations, and demands in Jharkhand. The 45-point document calls for equitable access to quality education, improved healthcare in rural and remote areas, stronger child protection measures, and the active involvement of children in decision-making processes.

Speaker Shri Rabindra Nath Mahto, while receiving the manifesto, praised the initiative and stressed the importance of listening to young voices. "I appreciate the effort of these young and determined children who for the first time have thought about having their demands and how it should reflect in the election manifestos of different Political Parties. Their demands reflect a vision for a better, safer, and more inclusive future. It is our responsibility to ensure their concerns are addressed through legislative processes. I commend the efforts of UNICEF Child Reporters and the children who have shared their insights today. Their participation in governance is crucial, and I assure them that we will work to make Jharkhand a place where every child can live a healthy and happy life," said Shri Mahto.

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UNICEF Jharkhand representatives, Dr. Kaninika Mitra, Chief of UNICEF Jharkhand, and Ms. Astha Alang, Communication Specialist, joined the event, supporting this important initiative.

Dr. Kaninika Mitra said, "Today’s presentation of the Children Manifesto is a powerful moment for the children of Jharkhand. The voices we’ve heard today must be turned into concrete action. Children are not just beneficiaries of policies but essential contributors to shaping their future. We urge the Assembly and all political leaders across party lines to ensure that these children’s needs are prioritized.” She further called on political parties to incorporate child-centric issues into their manifestos for the upcoming state elections.

Ms. Astha Alang underscored the significance of integrating children's rights into governance. “The Children Manifesto sets a clear agenda for addressing critical issues like education, health, nutrition, protection, and social security. Children generally do not vote and do not traditionally take part in political processes. 

Without special attention to the opinions of children – as expressed at home and in schools, in local communities and even in governments – children's views go unheard on the many important issues that affect them now or will affect them in the future. This was an opportunity that children received today to present their demands before the Speaker of Jharkhand Assembly. 

By encouraging political leaders across party lines to adopt these proposals, we can ensure that children’s well-being is at the forefront of policymaking,” said Ms Astha Alang.