Agartala, Aug 11: The Tripura government on Tuesday launched a three-day residential training programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of frontline officials to prevent child marriage through social and behaviour change strategies.

The programme, organised by the Directorate of Social Welfare and Social Education in collaboration with UNICEF’s Assam and North East office and Assam Don Bosco University, is being held at the State Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (SIPARD) in Agartala.

Around 30 participants from Sepahijala, South Tripura and Dhalai districts are attending the training. They include representatives from District Child Protection Units, Child Welfare Committees, Childlines, Juvenile Justice Boards, police, Child Marriage Prohibition Officers, ICDS supervisors and other stakeholders involved in child protection.

Inaugurating the programme, Director of Social Welfare and Social Education L. Hrangchal said child marriage continues to be a serious concern in Tripura, driven by socio-economic vulnerabilities, harmful social norms and persistent gender inequalities.

While acknowledging the awareness campaigns and monitoring mechanisms already in place, Hrangchal said gaps remain in tackling the issue effectively. He stressed the need for stronger community participation and called for the active involvement of religious leaders, Panchayati Raj representatives, teachers and social influencers in efforts to prevent child marriage.

He also highlighted the Balika Manch initiative in South Tripura as a successful intervention that has received recognition at the national level.

UNICEF resource persons Sonali Mukherjee and Dr. Gitali Kakati outlined the objectives of the training and emphasised the importance of community-level interventions in bringing about sustainable social and behavioural change.

The inaugural session began with the symbolic watering of a plant and a welcome address. Anima Debbarma, State Child Protection Consultant, UNICEF, delivered the vote of thanks.

During the three-day programme, participants will exchange field experiences, success stories and challenges encountered in their respective districts. The sessions are designed to equip frontline functionaries with practical tools and approaches for strengthening child protection mechanisms.

Officials said the initiative is expected to help build coordinated community responses, safeguard children’s rights and promote sustained behavioural change to eliminate child marriage across Tripura.