UNICEF Jharkhand, in collaboration with the Speaker’s Office, organised a roundtable on children’s mental health at the Jharkhand Assembly on Monday.
The discussion, titled “Prioritising Children’s Mental Health and Well-being: What Can Policymakers Do?”, brought together 40 MLAs and UNICEF experts during the monsoon session.
Assembly Speaker Rabindranath Mahato said children’s struggles, often hidden, require attention and action. “As representatives, it is our responsibility to create an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and supported,” he said.
Dr Kaninika Mitra, Chief of UNICEF Jharkhand Field Office, said children face pressures such as academic stress, economic difficulties,exposure to violence, and limited psychosocial support in schools and communities. She added that misconceptions around mental health increase these challenges.
Astha Alang, Communication, Advocacy and Partnerships Specialist at UNICEF Jharkhand, said mental health is central to child development and has a direct link to learning and future opportunities.
Preeti Srivastava, Child Protection Specialist, and Dr Vanesh Mathur, Health Officer, outlined the mental health issues affecting children and adolescents in the state and suggested policy measures.
The session, moderated by UNICEF consultant Shivani, gave legislators an opportunity to discuss myths, raise awareness, and explore measures, including school-based counseling and community-level support.
UNICEF said the roundtable was aimed at strengthening political and institutional support for children’s mental health in Jharkhand.