Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions. Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.

Despite the existence of the POCSO Act, proactive prevention strategies such as integrating Personal Safety Education (PSE) in school curricula, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, can empower children and adolescents with the knowledge and skills to prevent and fight CSA. The urgency of this integration cannot be overstated, as it empowers both children and adults against the menace of CSA and is essential to creating a safe environment. The programme adopts a multifaceted approach to educating children to recognise and respond to abuse. It collaborates with adult caregivers, including school management and parents, creating a safe environment and providing a safe space for disclosure. Additionally, early detection and intervention are essential to address the long-term impacts of CSA on mental health and educational outcomes.

Central to the PSE Programme is the concept of empowerment and consent. Children are taught that their bodies are their own, and that they have the right to set boundaries, thereby fostering healthy relationships and empowering them to advocate for their safety. Tailored to India’s socio-cultural dynamics, integrating PSE into various subjects equips students to navigate real-life unsafe situations confidently. Addressing societal norms and cultural stigmas around CSA is crucial to break through comprehensive education. PSE interrupts the silence linked to factors such as family honour by fostering open conversations, providing a safe space for disclosure, and encouraging them to speak up about any uncomfortable or unsafe situations they may encounter. This open channel of communication is crucial for early intervention and support.

Collaborative efforts with tech leaders and parental involvement are also vital for online safety. PSE equips parents and caregivers to guide children through their digital journey, make safe choices, introduce age-appropriate technology, and foster open communication and trust, enabling children to comfortably discuss any unsafe online experiences. This proactive engagement establishes a norm where children feel empowered to handle adverse situations confidently. We need to stand together pooling our collective efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our children, paving the way for a future where every child flourishes in an environment defined by safety, empowerment, and limitless possibilities.