Youth4Children storytelling meet discusses child rights, climate, health, safe and rural tourism

Senior Correspondent 

Newsbits.in

SANCHI: Youth4Children, with support from UNICEF Madhya Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh Tourism (MPT), organised a “Storytelling Meet" to Mark International Youth Dayat MPT Gateway Retreat, Sanchi.

The meet brought together about 45 young people from Bhopal, Dhar, Raisen and Vidisha, including several digital influencers, for discussions on child rights, climate, health, safe tourism and rural tourism. 

The meet began with an interactive storytelling session where participants shared their favourite childhood memories.

Stories ranged from planting and nurturing trees, playing in the rain and outdoors, making seed balls and playing cricket, to experiences that helped participants understand the challenges faced by children who are unable to attend school. 

Mahi, a Taekwondo student, also spoke about how her family supported her journey, despite external societal pressures and expectation.

“He has always advised me to dream big. He even made sure my mother got an education after getting married. He encouraged me to pursue Taekwondo, and today I am here because of him.”

Youth hold a pivotal role in advancing child rights and driving climate action across local communities, emphasized Anil Gulati, Communication Specialist, UNICEF Madhya Pradesh.

Speaking on the impact of youth-led initiatives, Anil Gulati underscored how individual and collective youth actions directly influence critical areas such as child health, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

 "Young people can drive meaningful change by making informed choices, protecting the environment, and advocating for the rights and well-being of every child" he added.

Dr Ranjana Mishra, Advisor, Safe Tourism Destination for Women, MP Tourism Board, Government of Madhya Pradesh, spoke about safe tourism and the role of youth.

“Young people can be important ambassadors for safe and responsible tourism. By promoting respect, awareness and inclusivity, they can help create tourism spaces that are safer and more welcoming for women, children and communities.”

Priyanka Sinha, Project Executive, Rural Tourism, MP Tourism Board, Government of Madhya Pradesh, engaged with participants on rural tourism and its potential to promote local culture, communities and livelihoods.

She noted, “Rural tourism provides an opportunity to experience and promote local culture, traditions and livelihoods. Young people can play an important role in showcasing these stories and supporting responsible and community-centred tourism.”

As part of a group activity, participants identified challenges and developed solutions that could be implemented at the individual and community level.

Discussions focused on tree plantation and protection, reducing carbon footprints, healthy lifestyles, soil conservation, e-waste management, recycling and reuse, pollution control, and educating children about environmental responsibility from an early age.

The programme concluded with a knowledge tourism experience at the Sanchi Stupa, where participants explored the site’s heritage and history.

Manju Sharma from Samarth Sansthan, RJ Anadi and Shambhavi Shukla from UNICEF were also present during the meet, and facilitated the gathering. 

The Storytelling Meet provided young people with a platform to exchange experiences, engage with experts and identify practical actions towards a healthier, safer and more sustainable future for children and communities.