UNICEF Delegation Meets Rajasthan DGP Rajeev Kumar Sharma, Discusses Strengthening Child-Friendly Policing Programme

Jaipur, May 2026 : In a significant initiative aimed at further strengthening the safety and protection of women and children in Rajasthan, a delegation led by UNICEF India Country Head Cynthia McCaffrey met Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar Sharma at the Police Headquarters in Jaipur on Wednesday. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on making the “Child-Friendly Policing” programme more effective and expansive across the state.

At the meeting held at the Police Headquarters, McCaffrey expressed satisfaction over the ongoing collaborative initiatives between UNICEF and the Rajasthan Police and emphasised the need to strengthen them further. She appreciated innovative initiatives such as “Kalika Patrolling Unit”, “Suraksha Sakhi” and “Vatsal Varta”, stating that these programmes are emerging as effective models for ensuring the safety and protection of women and children.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen coordination and cooperation between UNICEF and the police department. Extensive discussions were held on crucial issues including child protection, education, health and nutrition. The meeting also reviewed the impact of ongoing programmes and deliberated on future strategies for expanding their reach and effectiveness.

Special emphasis was laid on advancing the “system strengthening” and “scale-up” models so that the benefits of these initiatives can reach a larger section of society.

Community Policing to Receive Greater Focus

During the meeting, DGP Sharma stressed the importance of empowering community policing initiatives. He said that conducting regular awareness programmes in schools regarding online safety and cyber safety has become an urgent necessity in today’s digital age.

He further stated that it is extremely important to make children aware of ways to protect themselves from crimes and exploitation. According to him, a positive and secure environment can be created through active participation and cooperation between the police and society.

The discussions also focused on creating greater awareness and empowerment for women and children. UNICEF representatives and senior police officials shared several suggestions regarding safety measures, awareness campaigns and community outreach programmes.

It was decided that UNICEF representatives would prepare and submit a detailed action plan in the coming days based on the suggestions and discussions held during the meeting.

Among those present during the meeting were K. L. Narasimha Rao, child protection expert Dr. Sanjay Kumar Nirala, Additional Director General of Police (Community Policing) Lata Manoj Kumar, along with other senior police officials and UNICEF representatives.