AIDA-Child Friendly Dimapur, in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit, Child Helpline, Child Welfare Committee, Sankalp-District Hub for Empowerment of Women, District Legal Services Authority, Prodigal’s Home, Can Youth, Peace Channel, Serendip Guardians, and Assisi Centre for Integrated Development, organized a Pre-Children’s Day celebration on November 9, 2024, at AV Hall, Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur, Nagaland. The event aimed to raise awareness about child rights, amplify children’s voices within the community, and engage local leaders, emphasizing the theme “Inclusion for Every Child.” Rev. Fr. Dr. Roy George, Executive Director of AIDA, opened the program by warmly welcoming everyone. He shared an overview of AIDA’s initiatives, particularly Child Friendly Dimapur, and expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations supporting this cause. He extended special recognition to dignitaries from government departments, NGO representatives, institutions, and local communities for their presence. Smt. Martha R. Ritse, IAS, Secretary for Social Welfare and Mission Director of Mission Vatsalya, Nagaland, graced the occasion as the special guest. She began by discussing the origins of Children’s Day celebrations, emphasizing their role in raising awareness about children's rights, care, and education. She underscored the Government of India’s commitment to ensuring access to essential services for all children, including nutrition, healthcare, education, and protection. She highlighted key legislation, such as the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act, and initiatives like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, which aim to provide quality education for every child in India. Smt. Ritse also discussed other significant government programs, including Mission POSHAN, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and Mission Vatsalya, all focused on supporting child welfare nationwide. During her address, she elaborated on the Child Marriage Prohibition Act and her work in implementing Mission Vatsalya’s Child Protection Act across Nagaland’s 16 districts. She urged stakeholders to prioritize children’s safety, encouraging the creation of environments where children can explore, learn, and grow. She also reminded the audience of the national child helpline, 1098, available across India, and extended Pre-Children’s Day wishes to all. Other speakers included Ms. Ela, Director of Prodigal’s Home; Mrs. Moatila Ao, Panel Lawyer with Dimapur District Legal Services Authority; and Ms. Dhonthaidi Langthasa, Gender Specialist with the Sankalp-District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Dimapur. The program featured several special performances: a presentation by specially-abled children from Prodigal’s Home, dance by Angel Home, a presentation by Deaf Biblical Ministry, a drama on “Inclusion for Every Child,” a fitness dance by Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School’s Child Rights Club members, and a song by Christina Hr. Sec. School’s Peace Club members. The event, moderated by Ms. Lojano and Mr. Nathan, Child Rights Club members from Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, began with an invocation by Pastor Visasier Kevichusa of Kingdom Culture Church. Ms. Lozua Kape, a member of the Child Welfare Committee, concluded the program with a vote of thanks. With nearly 280 participants, the celebration strengthened the community’s commitment to child rights and inclusion.