The concept of Makkala Panchayat (children’s panchayat) was conceived as a village-centred programme to address the problems faced by children. This was evolved in collaboration with the local government and with the participation of children. While working children are members of Bhima Sangha, the Toofan programme attempts to involve all children – whether in or out of school. The programme is positioned to provide experiential education in democratic values and practices, preparing the citizens of tomorrow. Children are empowered to participate at the local level through the creation of Makkala Panchayats (Children's Panchayat), its electorate consisting of all working children (6-18 year old) in the village, with representation for all children including school-going children. Its office bearers include the President, Vice President and Members (12-18 years old). All the children of the village (0-18) are registered in the Makkala Panchayat roles and this acts as a valuable source of data on the status of all children in the village. The forum is central to continuous dialogue and collaboration between children and the local structures of governance.

CWC has adopted the panchayat as the basic unit of operation for all programmes, with other levels and activities building on the strength of Panchayat-level mobilisation and organisation. This is done because the Panchayat is not only a forum that is an integral part of India’s democratic structure, it is also the only body that brings together the different arms/departments of the government. Being the body closest to the ground, CWC was of the opinion that participation of children would be more feasible at this level because it is possible for them to build a one-to-one rapport with elected representatives. CWC also believed that it would be easier to replicate a Panchayat-level structure.

Makkala Mitra (Children's Friend)

While working with children, CWC recognised that children need at least one adult person in the panchayat, whom they can establish immediate contact with and whom they trust. The concept of a ‘friend of children’ or Makkala Mitra evolved. These individuals are selected by the children themselves on the basis of their sensitivity to children's needs and most importantly, their readiness to help and guide them in times of crisis and need. Makkala Mitra also work in close collaboration with the Toofan Task Force  and have the responsibility to ensure that children in need receive assistance from government departments or from NGOs if required. Further, they are regularly informed about the problems faced by children of the Panchayat by the children themselves.

Taskforce

In 1995, the Taluk Task Force was established to tackle the issues related to child labour.

It is a tripartite body, devised by CWC, comprising of children’s representatives; government officials and elected representatives; and community based organisations.

In the Taluk Task Force, policy makers, adults and children meet together to discuss the issues of children and address the. Children come to Panchayats with the decisions they made at the Makkala Panchayats. Before they come here, they have already presented and discussed their issues and views with the Gram Panchayat. Therefore, at this point they have the full support of the Gram Panchayat President who is also a member of the Task force. The issues they brought here are the ones that need the attention of the higher policy makers/officials. In other words, issues beyond the control of the Gram Panchayat are taken to the Taluk Taskforce.

In this meeting all the members of the Task Force give their attention to children’s views and make decisions according to the presentations made by the children together with the Gram Panchayats.