THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Calling on the public to fulfill their responsibility to raise children as compassionate, knowledgeable, and civic-minded citizens, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that a secure future for the nation depends on the welfare and development of its youth. He was speaking at the state-level Children’s Day event organised by the State Child Welfare Committee on Thursday.
The day began with a rally at 8 am, with thousands of children from lower primary to higher secondary schools participating. The rally was flagged off at 8.30 am by Food and Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil from the University Stadium, and concluded at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Kanakakunnu.
For the first time, girls led the rally, with children’s leaders riding in an open jeep. Panchavadyam, mounted police, police bands, student police, Scouts and Guides, and NCC cadets accompanied the massive procession. Around 15,000 children from nearly 200 schools marched, carrying Children’s Day placards and performing drill displays and band routines.
Special awards were presented to the best schools participating in the rally, including an ever-rolling trophy.
For the 16th consecutive year, Little Flower School, Vellayani, secured the first place in the state-level Children’s Day rally, retaining the ever-rolling crown. Carmel Girls Higher Secondary School, Thiruvananthapuram, came second, while Girls Higher Secondary School, Peroorkada, secured third place.
The rally saw the participation of children from various homes and special schools, such as the Rotary Institute School for differently abled children in Vazhuthacaud, Sree Chitra Home, and other institutions.
Following the rally, a public meeting led by children’s leaders took place at Nishagandhi Auditorium, Children’s Prime Minister, Bahiya Fatima inaugurated the session, while Amana Fatima from Nedumangad Government Higher Secondary School for Girls presided. Nidhi P A from Vazhuthacaud Carmel Girls Higher Secondary School delivered the keynote speech as the Children’s Speaker.