In a country where the voices of young people are often overlooked in matters of public health, the 19th edition of Bal Parishad, organized by the Salaam Bombay Foundation, stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Held at Shri Gauridutt Mittal Vidyalaya & Junior College in Sion, this pioneering children’s health convention brought together young health advocates from government schools across the city, offering them a unique platform to express their concerns, share solutions, and take charge of their futures.
The event, which focused on issues like tobacco control, mental health, and nutrition awareness, also introduced a significant milestone—the launch of the Young Changemakers Award, recognizing exceptional student leaders who have been at the forefront of creating tobacco-free schools and healthier communities.
What sets Bal Parishad apart is its focus on empowering students from under-resourced government schools, where opportunities are often limited. Unlike traditional student councils in privileged settings, Bal Parishad offers a rare platform for these students to lead efforts in addressing pressing public health issues. Through discussions, presentations, and hands-on initiatives, they showcased year-long projects—from promoting tobacco-free spaces to advocating for mental health support and sustainability. This event goes beyond conversation; it’s about driving real, positive change with the leadership of the next generation.
The event was graced by an esteemed panel, including Dr. Krishna Methekar, Joint Director, FSSAI, Govt. of India, Dr. Duryodhan Chavan, Deputy Director, Health Department, Govt. of Maharashtra, and Mrs. Manisha Pawar, Deputy Director, Regional Academic Authority, Education Department, Mumbai. The panellists engaged in Q&A sessions with students, offering valuable insights, encouragement, and support for their initiatives.
The Young Changemakers Award 2025 celebrated exceptional student-led initiatives across four crucial areas—tobacco control, mental well-being, nutrition, and community health awareness. The award winners were applauded for their impactful grassroots efforts, which included sensitizing their peers about the dangers of tobacco, working with local shopkeepers to prevent tobacco sales to minors, establishing kitchen gardens to promote better nutrition, and organizing health camps to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases. These students have not only advocated for change but have also actively contributed to fostering healthier, more informed communities.
Tshering Bhutia, Senior Vice President, Preventive Health, Salaam Bombay Foundation, emphasised the long-term vision of Bal Parishad, stating, “This initiative 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.”
As the Salaam Bombay Foundation continues to empower student leadership in public health, the success of the 19th Bal Parishad marks a pivotal moment in the movement toward a healthier, tobacco-free India. By providing a platform for young voices to lead the charge in addressing critical health issues, the event not only highlighted the incredible potential of these student changemakers but also paved the way for stronger collaborations between educators, policymakers, and youth advocates. With their passion and dedication, these young leaders are lighting the path to a brighter, healthier future for all. The journey toward a healthier nation is well underway, and it is clear that the next generation is ready to take the reins.
