The Child Safety Net (CSN) team of Don Bosco Davanagere, organised an advocacy campaign on 17 December in the Mandakki Bhatti area of Bashanagara to create public awareness on child protection and the prevention of child labour.
Around twenty bikes with nearly forty participants, including staff and children, actively took part in a rally through key stretches of the Mandakki Bhatti area, drawing the attention of the public and workplace owners.
Mandakki Bhatti is a low-income area that produces puffed rice for sale, an industry that has been known to employ children in the production process. Following the rally, the team conducted a sticker campaign across the area, pasting them on manufacturing unit walls and doors, spreading messages on child rights and child protection near workplaces. Around 200 stickers were displayed and nearly 400 handbills were distributed to the public, workers, and unit owners to reinforce awareness.
The presence of key stakeholders, including Shri Mahaveer M.A. Kerennaavara, Judge, District Legal Services Authority; Shri Ismail, President of the Avalakki Making Association; Shri Akbar Saab, President of the Mandakki-Making Union; Shri Prasannakumar, Director, Child Labour Cell, along with Fr. Regi Jacob, Director, Don Bosco, strengthened the message of collective responsibility in ensuring child protection.
The rally and campaign helped initiate meaningful conversations within the Mandakki Bhatti area on the harmful effects of child labour and the importance of protecting children’s rights. The visible placement of stickers and direct interaction through handbills enabled the message to reach a wide section of the community, while the participation of workers, children and local leaders reflected growing awareness and willingness to work together for safer environments for children.
