Beginning in the 2025–26 academic year, NCERT has proposed integrating some information on Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act into its school textbooks in Maharashtra from Standard 1 onwards, as reported by Mid-day.
Understanding the POCSO Act, 2012
But what exactly is the POCSO Act? The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) is a law designed to safeguard children under 18 from sexual abuse, harassment, and exploitation. It was enacted on 19 June, 2012, and enforced on 14 November, 2012.
It provides a legal framework for the creation of Special Courts to expedite trials and ensure child-friendly procedures. The Act also emphasises the importance of confidentiality and the child's best interests throughout legal proceedings.
A New Step in Education
With the recommendations from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the NCERT has proposed some changes in its school textbooks. Starting from the academic year 2025–26, all school textbooks from Standard 1 onwards will include information about the POCSO Act, and the ‘1098’ child helpline. Children will be taught about good and bad touch, age-appropriate knowledge about their rights, safety, avenues for help, and communication with teachers and parents.
Why This is Important
You might wonder, why introduce such topics at such an early age? The answer lies in prevention and awareness. By educating children about their rights and the resources available to them, we are fostering a generation that can recognise inappropriate behavior and knows how to respond. This proactive approach aims to reduce instances of abuse and empower children to speak up when necessary.
As Hon. Dr. Arundhati Chavan, president of the Parents' Teachers' Association - United Forum, stated, ‘It’s a good initiative, but introducing the POCSO Act in detail may be too complex for younger students. However, awareness from Std I is vital. Children need to understand good touch, bad touch, how to react, and whom to speak to. Explaining the helpline, how and when to use it, is just as important. These topics should be taught through child-friendly methods, like storytelling, role play, and activities.’
Swati Popat Vats, President of the Early Childhood Association also in a statement to mid-day, said, ‘As an educator who made a video on good touch, bad touch almost 20 years ago, I want to congratulate the government on this initiative. Empowering children with knowledge about their rights and safety is crucial for their well-being and development. By incorporating POCSO education into school textbook, we will equip them with the tools to recognise, report, and prevent abuse, ultimately creating a safer and more informed future generation.’
In Conclusion
The journey of education is not just about academics; it's about shaping individuals to understand their rights and responsibilities. As we move forward, let us all play our part in supporting this initiative, ensuring that every child grows up in a space where they feel valued, protected, and heard.
Source
The Mid-day, 23 April, 2025: Maharashtra, POSCO awareness to start from Std 1
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per the NCERT, Maharashtra State Board, Ministry of Education, and Government of India.
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