Our Story

In May 2002, during a leadership-building residential workshop held in Dehradun, India, something remarkable took place — an event that would go on to transform the lives of thousands of street and working children across North India.

Organized by CHETNA (Childhood Enhancement through Training and Action), a Delhi-based NGO, the workshop brought together 35 street and working children from various parts of Delhi. In an environment of shared experience and open discussion, these young participants reached a powerful realization: if they wanted change, they had to lead it themselves.

It was here that the seeds of Badhte Kadam (Stepping Forward) — a federation of street and working children — were planted. United by a common purpose, these children committed to supporting and empowering others like them, to raise awareness around their rights, and to work collectively for their well-being and dignity.

As the movement grew, another concern surfaced. The children noticed that mainstream media rarely highlighted their achievements or struggles. Society often only took notice when a child from the streets was involved in crime or something ‘anti-social’. But what about the countless untold stories — of street children who helped others, who overcame adversity, who dreamed of a better future?

In response, an idea was born:
“Why not create our own space — a platform to tell our own stories, in our own words?”

From this powerful thought, Balaknama (meaning “Voice of the Children”) came into existence. It became the world’s first newsletter written by street and working children, giving them the freedom to express, report, and reflect on their own lives — not through the lens of pity, but with pride, resilience, and truth.

Today, Balaknama is more than just a publication. It is a movement of voices, a symbol of self-expression, and a beacon of hope — led by the very children it seeks to empower.