Daijiworld Media Network - Chinchinim

Chinchinim, Nov 16: From demanding safe playgrounds and smart classrooms to raising concerns over stray dogs, sanitation and school hygiene, children of Chinchinim village put forward a wide range of suggestions at the Bal Gram Sabha organised by the Village Panchayat of Chinchinim.

Held with the aim of empowering children in local governance, the session saw enthusiastic participation, with students offering practical ideas to resolve issues affecting their daily lives. Their suggestions will also feed into the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP), reinforcing the panchayat’s commitment to inclusive planning.

Sarpanch Frank Viegas said the Bal Gram Sabha provided a meaningful platform for young voices and strengthened children’s participation in community governance. The programme featured interactive sessions and group discussions, encouraging children to think collectively and express their concerns without hesitation.

Participants contributed to an action plan built around their recommendations, while an open forum allowed them to raise issues such as smart or digital classrooms, planting trees around schools for shade, installing solar panels, improving transport and school bus facilities, and promoting rainwater harvesting.

Some students strongly opposed holding school in April due to heat, while others suggested declaring every Saturday as a holiday or at least a half-day. Children also demanded better sanitation in schools, house-to-house waste collection every alternate day, greater encouragement for football, and the appointment of French and Portuguese teachers.

The session featured resource person Dr. Gunaji Dessai, who highlighted the importance of children’s voices in shaping community development.

The panchayat reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young citizens and ensuring their continued involvement in building the future of Chinchinim.