MUMBAI: The 19th edition of Bal Parishad, a health convention instituted by the NGO Salaam Bombay Foundation, was held at an educational institute in Sion. The event drew young “health advocates” from govt schools to voice their concerns and solutions for a healthier future.
“Unlike conventional student councils or mock parliaments often seen in private schools, Bal Parishad is a platform where students from ‘under-resourced’ govt schools take the lead in addressing public health challenges. Through discussions and presentations, these changemakers showcased their year-long efforts in tobacco control, mental health advocacy, nutrition awareness, and sustainability initiatives,” read a press note issued by the NGO.
This year saw the launch of the Young Changemakers Award, honouring student leaders who helped create tobacco-free schools and healthier communities. The award recognised their initiatives in four areas: tobacco control, mental well-being, nutrition, and community health awareness.
The winners were praised for sensitising peers, engaging local shopkeepers to stop tobacco sales to minors, setting up kitchen gardens for better nutrition, and organising health camps to spread awareness of non-communicable diseases.
Tshering Bhutia, Senior Vice President, Preventive Health, Salaam Bombay Foundation, emphasised the long-term vision of Bal Parishad. “This is more than an event. It is a platform for students who inspire change. By empowering students with knowledge to create a dialogue for change, we are fostering a generation of young leaders who are shaping healthier communities from within.”
Bal Parishad was attended by Dr Krishna Methekar, Joint Director, FSSAI, Dr Duryodhan Chavan, Deputy Director of the state health dept, and Manisha Pawar, Deputy Director of the regional academic authority of the education dept. Panellists engaged in Q&A sessions with students.