12/06/2025
On June 4 and 5, 2025, Terre des Hommes Suisse, in collaboration with the Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM), Kolkata—a unit of National Council of Science Museums, Government of India—and Merlin Group, proudly celebrated World Environment Day, placing children at the center of the event.
During this occasion, TdH Suisse officially launched its global campaign in India:
“Save My Planet, Save My Rights”—a powerful reminder that children, although the least responsible for the environmental crisis, are the first victims.
On Day One, an inspiring poster and photo exhibition on environmental protection and child rights—featuring powerful perspectives from children—was inaugurated by Ms. Tulika Das, Honourable Chairperson of the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights (WBCPCR), along with other esteemed guests: Mr. Arnab Chatterjee, Director, BITM, Kolkata, Mr. Ardhendu Shekhar Chatterjee, Founder and President of the Development Research Communication and Services Center (DRCSC), and Mr. Surajit Niyogi, State Head, Action Aid, West Bengal.
The exhibition vividly captured children’s concerns, highlighting how climate change poses serious threats to their fundamental rights, including health, education, and protection.
A thought-provoking ‘Climate Talk’ on the Social Consequences of Climate Change brought together experts, corporate leaders, and other distinguished guests to examine the social impacts of climate change, particularly on children in India—ranging from forced migration, school dropouts and job loss to growing inequality, and violations of children's rights. It was also discussed how natural disasters, pollution, and many such events driven by climate change disrupts children's lives and hinder their ability to enjoy their rights.
Key speakers were:
Dr. Andrew Fleming, Honourable British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India
Ms. Tulika Das
Mr. Ardhendu Shekhar Chatterjee
Mr. Surajit Niyogi
Mr. Sandipan Aich, AGM- Corporate Communications and CSR, Merlin Group
The thoughtful discussion was moderated by Mr. Ashish Ghosh, Regional Coordinator, Asia, of Terre des Hommes Suisse.
A children’s workshop on environmental protection and climate change took place where 20 children participated. This was an initiative to empower them to voice their concerns and hopes through posters, slogans, and group discussions. The event was conducted by Sujoy Bhattacharya (Rural Development Association, Ghatsila) and Koushik Chowdhury (SMOKUS, Raiganj).
On the second day, an open quiz on plastic pollution sparked lively participation from children, encouraging learning through fun and engagement. Children also experienced a powerful performance by the theatrical group Danpite, who staged "Mimir Prithibi"—a play about Mimi, a young girl facing poverty and hardship, who discovers hope, freedom, and strength through nature and kindness.
The momentum continued as 200 saplings were distributed, followed by a plantation drive in the garden of BITM Kolkata—turning awareness into action.
Ms. Sarbani Bhattacharya, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Corporate Affairs, and CSR, Merlin Group, was present and addressed the children about the consequence of climate change and the importance of responsible behavior.
Nearly 150 children from seven project areas of Terre des Hommes across India came together over the two-day event—celebrating with art, dialogue, and collective action. Their voices echoed a powerful message:
Protecting the planet means protecting children’s rights.
Let’s keep raising our voices and acting—with and for the children.
West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights
Merlin Group
Merlin I'm Kolkata
DRCSC
Birla Industrial &Technological Museum, Kolkata
Terre des Hommes Suisse
