Chhattisgarh Commission Chairperson Dr Varnika Sharma Leads Initiative; Districts Asked to Submit Reports by September 21
Raipur, Sept 2026: Chhattisgarh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Chairperson Dr Varnika Sharma has launched an important initiative to make the identity of child and girl protection homes, as well as juvenile observation homes operating across the state, more positive and child-friendly.
She has recommended replacing the existing formal and institutional names of these facilities with names that foster a sense of belonging, self-respect, security and positive thinking among children residing there.
Dr Sharma has written to the Principal Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Chhattisgarh, urging necessary action in this regard. She suggested that the names of child protection institutions should not remain limited to administrative identification but should also reflect sensitivity, dignity and respect towards children.
Referring to positive and dignified names such as ‘Palash’ and ‘Parisha’, which are used for child protection institutions in Jammu, the Commission has recommended adopting similar names in Chhattisgarh. The Commission believes that the name of an institution can influence the emotional well-being and social identity of the children living there.
Therefore, the name should strengthen their confidence and sense of dignity rather than create feelings of inferiority.
Names to Reflect Local Culture and Nature
Dr Varnika Sharma has suggested that while naming institutions in different districts, priority should be given to positive and inspiring names connected with the local language, culture, nature, folk traditions and regional identity. This, she said, would help connect the identity of these institutions with their local surroundings and make them feel more welcoming and familiar to children.
The Commission has also suggested that children residing in the institutions, caregivers and other stakeholders should be consulted while finalising the new names. This would help involve children in the process of creating a new identity for their institutions and foster a greater sense of ownership and belonging.
The Commission has requested the Department of Women and Child Development to issue necessary directions to the districts, obtain lists of proposed names for child protection institutions and submit a written report to the Commission on the action taken by September 21.
