6000 Migrant Children in Jalna Given a New Lease on Life, Thanks to 450 'Balmitras' 

By AHMED NOOR

Children who once followed parents to sugarcane fields now staying back for education; UNICEF-supported initiative brings hope across 260 villages

Over 6,000 children from migrant families in 260 villages across Jalna district, who previously accompanied their parents to sugarcane fields and other labour-intensive workplaces, are now continuing their education—thanks to the tireless efforts of 450 dedicated Balmitras (Friends of Children).

This remarkable transformation has been made possible through a collaborative initiative supported by UNICEF, the Jalna District Administration, and local NGOs SACRED (Society for Action in Creative Education and Development) and Swaraj Gramin Vikas Pratishthan.

A Lifeline for the Most Vulnerable

These Balmitras, young volunteers aged between 18 and 25 from the same villages, have been working at the grassroots level for the past eight years. Their mission: to persuade seasonal migrant workers to leave their children under the care of grandparents or elder relatives, instead of taking them along to sugarcane farms, brick kilns, or construction sites.

“Seasonal migrant workers used to take their children with them in search of work, exposing them to harsh and unsafe living conditions,” said SACRED Secretary Ravi Kelgaonkar. “These children faced disruptions in schooling, malnutrition, poor healthcare, and were at risk of child labour, abuse, or early marriage.”

Kelgaonkar explained that Balmitras, with the support of Anganwadi workers and village sarpanchs, identify families likely to migrate, maintain data, and carry out door-to-door awareness drives. “Their success lies in building trust. They convince parents to prioritize their children's education and safety.”

Backed by Research and Training

A 2022 study titled “Protection of Children Affected by Seasonal Migration of Jalna district”, conducted in collaboration with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, Government of Maharashtra, and UNICEF, highlights the multi-dimensional risks faced by children of migrant workers. Whether left behind or taken along, these children are highly vulnerable to school dropouts, neglect, abuse, child labour, and early marriage—especially girls.

To counter these issues, the district administration and UNICEF initiated the Balmitra project, focusing on training youth volunteers. Each Balmitra undergoes a specially designed two-day training programme developed by the Women and Child Development (WCD) department and UNICEF. The training equips them with leadership, communication, and outreach skills needed to interact effectively with families.

Selfless Service, Community Recognition

‘Notably, Balmitras receive no remuneration for their work. Yet, their commitment has made them respected figures in their villages. Many have gone on to become sarpanchs, Anganwadi workers, or leaders in their communities”Kelegaonkar.

To engage children, Balmitras also conduct sports sessions before and after school, using sports equipment provided by UNICEF to 250 schools in the district. “This helps bring children closer to the classroom and builds their interest in school,” Kelgaonkar noted.

He also pointed out a critical social issue in sugarcane communities—early marriages. “Couples are often offered higher wages if they work together, prompting child marriages. Balmitras raise awareness about the dangers and legal consequences of such practices,” he said.

Recognition at the District Level

In recognition of their tireless work, Jalna District Collector Dr. Shrikrishna Panchal felicitated the Balmitras at a programme held at the collectorate on Thursday. “The efforts of Balmitras in securing education and safety for children who were previously deprived of their basic rights is highly commendable,” Dr Panchal said.

Also present at the event was Alpa Vora, Consultant of Child Protection at UNICEF, who praised the initiative. “The strength of any society is measured by how it protects and nurtures its children. Balmitras are setting a benchmark in grassroots child protection,” she said.

What began as a small community-driven movement has now blossomed into a powerful example of how collective action can restore lost childhoods. The Balmitras of Jalna are not just friends to children — they are their guardians, educators, and beacons of hope in a challenging world

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