New Delhi, Jan 6: 241 children from Jammu and Kashmir, including victims of militancy and weaker sections of the society met Vice President Hamid Ansari on Wednesday.
The children were part of the Youth Exchange Programme called, ‘Waton Ko Jano’ organized by the Jammu and Kashmir State Rehabilitation Council with the support of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
“Sky is the limit for these young children. They can achieve whatever they want,” said Ansari after interacting with the children.
Out of 241 children and youth in the age group of 15-24, 102 were from two orphanages.
Under the Programme, selected children are exposed to the development and of culture of people residing in other states of the country.
The group visited various places of historical, cultural and educational interest in the city.
“These children hardly have had any opportunity to look beyond their district. Here we took them to various historical places like Qutub Minar and for a metro ride to make them aware of technological advancement of the country. They were also taken to Agra to see the historical Taj Mahal,” Executive Director of Rehabilitation Council of the State Rubina Kausar said.
She said preference is given to children from militancy affected families, destitute children and children from weaker sections.
The other criterion for selection apart from socio-economic background is proficiency in education, sports and cultural activities
“It was for the first time that such a large number of children have been selected since the programme was started in 2012,” said Coordinator of Rehabilitation Council of the State Javed Ahmed.
“These children are mainly selected from various orphanages of Jammu and Kashmir. All districts are represented in the selection which is carried by District Development Commissioner along District Social Welfare Officer,” he said.
The group that was on a 15-day tour to the national capital also had an opportunity to meet President and Home Minister.
