Mangaluru:  The Young Indians (Yi) Mangalore Chapter, in collaboration with St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), successfully hosted the ‘Human Chain for Child Helpline 1098’ awareness initiative on Friday, November 15. This event aimed to raise awareness about Child Helpline 1098, a lifeline dedicated to safeguarding and supporting children in need.  

The event was headed by Aditi Bansal, Masoom Chair and Abhinav Bansal, Masoom Co-Chair with support of our chapter leadership and other YI members; fromM. Athmika Amin, Yi ChairpersonMangaluru Chapter and CA Salome Lobo Pereira, Yi Co-Chairperson,Mangaluru Chapter, AdeethKalbavi (Innovation Co-chair), Sharan Shetty (Branding and Communication Chair), Durgadas Shetty (Yuva Chair), and Ashrika Amin (Membership Chair).  

Prominent dignitaries lent their support to the initiative, including Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza (Director, SJEC), Fr Kenneth Rayner Crasta (Assistant Director, SJEC), Dr Rio D’Souza (Principal, SJEC), Dr. Purushottam Chippar (Vice Principal, SJEC), and the Deans of SJEC. Their unwavering encouragement highlighted the event’s importance.  

Najma Farooqui, ACP Traffic, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the crucial role of Child Helpline 1098 in ensuring child safety and well-being. Ganesh P, Coordinator of the Child Helpline team, provided a detailed overview of the helpline’s operations, reinforcing its accessibility and effectiveness in addressing child-related issues. His inspiring words energized the participants to champion the cause further.  

Over 1,200 enthusiastic students from SJEC formed a human chain stretching from Vamanjoor Junction to Pilikula Circle, holding vibrant placards advocating for the Child Helpline. The human chain symbolized unity and commitment to the welfare of children, leaving a lasting impact on the local community.  

This event showcased the collective dedication of Yi Mangalore, SJEC students and faculty, local authorities, and the community toward a shared mission of child protection. It stood as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and collaboration in fostering a safe and secure environment for children.