"No Child Should Lose Their Childhood Because of Their Circumstances": Ayushmann Khurrana

Bollywood actor and UNICEF India National Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana traveled to Jalna, Maharashtra, to meet children and families impacted by seasonal migration, using the visit to spotlight the importance of a safe and secure childhood. The trip centered on UNICEF-backed kinship and community care initiatives that support vulnerable children within family and community settings, prioritizing their education, health, nutrition and emotional well-being.

"No child should have to lose their childhood because of their circumstances," Khurrana said. "Kinship care isn't just about providing a safe home - it preserves relationships, restores confidence, and offers hope for a better future." During his visit, he engaged directly with young volunteers, Balmitras (community workers dedicated to child welfare), adolescent girls, and families to witness firsthand the impact these programmes are having at the grassroots level.

Pointing to the story of 18-year-old Shilpa as an example, Khurrana noted that girls are able to pursue their ambitions when they're raised in environments that prioritize education, health and safety.

UNICEF Acting Representative Jesper Moller reinforced this message, stating that violence against children is preventable, provided systems are strengthened to identify at-risk cases early and connect affected families with essential support services.

The numbers reflect the programme's reach: over 5,800 children in Jalna benefited from kinship care during 2024–25 alone. Beyond providing safety, the initiative has played a key role in keeping children enrolled in school while curbing risks like child labour and early marriage.