Babita Patra Appointed New OSCPCR Chairperson

Babita Patra has been appointed Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR), reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to safeguard child rights.

Smt. Babita Patra, a resident of Mayur Vihar, Somnath Nagar, Berhampur, will serve as Chairperson for a term of three years, starting from the date she assumes office, or until she reaches the age of sixty-five, whichever comes first.

Additionally, the State Government has announced the appointment of six members to the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. These members will serve for a tenure of three years or until they turn sixty years old, whichever occurs first.

1. Sukeshi Oram, At-Kadagadia, Champua, Keonjhar

2. Kalpana Lenka, Basanti Colony, Rourkela

3. Chandana Das, Badagada Brit Colony, Bhubaneswar

4. Kasturi Mishra, Bapuji Nagar, Bhubaneswar

5. Manasmita Khuntia, Charampa, Bhadrak

6. Sujata Nayak, Bomikhal, Bhubaneswar

The announcement, made on August 5, marks a renewed push toward addressing critical issues affecting children, including education access, nutrition standards, safety, and legal safeguards. Patra’s prior work in grassroots advocacy and child protection initiatives positions her to bring both administrative insight and community perspective to her new role.

The OSCPCR, established to monitor and promote child rights across Odisha, functions as a watchdog and advisory body. With the inclusion of new members, the Commission is expected to revitalise its efforts and foster collaborations with NGOs, schools, and legal entities for more inclusive policy implementations.