Bhubaneswar, Oct. 15 -- Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Women and Child Development Minister Pravati Parida, along with officials, on Thursday performed 'Kanya Pujan' during Navratri at an event organised by the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) in Bhubaneswar.

According to a statement from the Deputy CM's Office, Parida said the ceremony went beyond traditional worship, highlighting the need to protect every girl's dignity and rights and ensure her safety, education and holistic development.

She called for collective efforts to build a child-friendly society where every girl is respected, protected and empowered to pursue her dreams.

Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Godde...