Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has made it mandatory for all government, semi-government, educational and service institution buildings in the state to prominently display the child helpline number 1098. “Widespread awareness of this number will help tackle issues such as child marriage, child labor and other forms of exploitation,” the circular stated. The Chief Secretary clarified that no department should leave scope for ambiguity and directed all agencies to immediately put up permanent signboards displaying the helpline number. In August, a young girl from Hagaribommanahalli taluk dialed 1098 to prevent her own child marriage. Displaying 1098 across all institutions will ensure that every child knows where to turn for help,” an officer explained.