LUCKNOW, Dec. 12 -- "Understanding the challenges faced by children and adolescents is crucial, as the nation's future lies in their hands," said Leena Jauhari, additional chief secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, while speaking at a state-level event held in a Gomti Nagar hotel on Thursday to mark the 78th anniversary of UNICEF's founding. She stated that children, especially from remote areas, must be given opportunities to connect with and understand nature, and emphasised that collective efforts are essential for their holistic development. Children are central to the nation's progress, stated a press release shared with the media on Thursday. UNICEF celebrated the day in collaboration with CHAB-IYAN (Children's Hope for Action and Better Impact Youth Advocacy Network). Children, young people, experts and guests from across the state took part in discussions on child rights, youth leadership, climate change and other key issues. The event also featured an inspiring song medley performed by children. Nipun Gupta, communication specialist at UNICEF UP, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the event's purpose: fostering dialogue on child rights, youth leadership and building a safe future. A video on the Youth Impact Challenge 3.0, presented by CHABI-YAN and UNICEF, was also screened. IG SC Dubey, Uttar Pradesh Police, expressed pride in collaborating with UNICEF and pledged continued support, the release noted. Dr Zakari Adam, UNICEF Uttar Pradesh chief, said that "CHABI-YAN" means that you, the children, are the key to the future; your participation is the greatest strength of this initiative. PK Tripathi, general manager of women corporation, said that such programmes should be organised in every part of the state so that the path to the holistic development of children becomes broader, while prof Shreenivas Vikina of Birbal Sahni Institute explained the importance of research to the children present and clarified the difference between science and practical knowledge. UNICEF UP's WASH specialist Nagendra Singh discussed the climate crisis, the challenges faced by children and green opportunities. Children and youth participated in an open quiz on child rights and UNICEF, followed by the screening of a special UNICEF film that acquainted the audience with global efforts to improve children's lives....