Hotline launched to protect children
The patron of the event said dedicating a helpline for child protection was “based on real facts about true abuse stories in society”. He said: “Our society is young. 43 per cent of Omani population is under 18 years. Therefore, the ministry is keen on providing all types of care for them under the Child Law.”
Dr Yahiya al Hinai, DirectorGeneral of Family Development at the ministry, said: “The hotline, which is free and easy to remember, is a national project that reflects the ministry’s efforts in backing child issues. It is intended to protect children aged below 18 years.”
He said the hotline deals with emergencies by directly instructing agencies concerned to extend urgent help to the children.
Ibtisam al Lamki, social specialist, Family Protection Department, made a visual presentation about the hotline, which is a result of cooperation between the ministry, TRA and telecommunication providers, Omantel and Oreedoo.
It will serve all children in Oman, both citizens and residents, as well as Omani children living abroad. It will also provide advice to doctors, social specialists, academics and parents.
The ministry received 299 reports of children abused physically, psychologically and sexually in 2016, 53 per cent of whom were males and 47 per cent females.
TRA said it was launching a campaign in the first quarter of this year to protect children from risks posed by use of communication devices.
Rozalin al Balushi, Consumer Affairs Manager at TRA, said: “The campaign aims to raise awareness about telecommunication services and how to use them wisely. It will educate children about the risks these devices pose. It will also offer tips to parents and teachers for keeping a watch on children using these devices.”
TRA said it was launching a campaign in the first quarter of this year to protect children from risks posed by use of communication devices.
Rozalin al Balushi, Consumer Affairs Manager at TRA, said: “The campaign aims to raise awareness about telecommunication services and how to use them wisely. It will educate children about the risks these devices pose. It will also offer tips to parents and teachers for keeping a watch on children using these devices.”
Telugu film ‘Khaidi No. 150’ starring Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi who returned to the silver screen after a gap of nine years, ran to a packed house in Muscat on Wednesday. Bookings for the movie are full for the next one week.
‘Khaidi No. 150’, which had a worldwide release, also happens to be the star’s 150th movie. It was premiered on Tuesday for a select audience.
“Khaidi No. 150 is sure to entertain masses in Oman as there are a large number of Telugu expatriates here,” says Ramdas, founder president of Chiru Mega Youth Force, an organisation for people from the south Indian state.
The 60-year-old, who entered films at a young age, is making his presence felt on the screens after a long hiatus.
“His acting is surely defying his age as he is seen singing and dancing like a young man,” he said.
The movie is making waves in the US, collecting more than Rs 5 crore on the first day of its release.
The actor, also a dancer, producer, singer, businessman and investor, is a member of the Indian National Congress. He made his acting debut in 1978. Known for his dancing skills, Chiranjeevi had so far acted in 149 films in a variety of roles.