New Delhi, Jan 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated National Girl Child Day on Saturday, emphasizing the Union government's decade-long initiatives to foster an environment conducive to the well-being of girls and their role in achieving Viksit Bharat.

In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi stated, "On National Girl Child Day, we reaffirm our unwavering resolve to ensure that the girl child leads a life of dignity, opportunity, and hope."

The Prime Minister further remarked, "In the past ten years, we have prioritized improved education, skill development, and healthcare for the girl child. This has created an environment where she can thrive and contribute effectively to Viksit Bharat."

Previously, PM Modi had reiterated the government's dedication to empowering the girl child and providing a broad array of opportunities for her.

"India takes pride in the achievements of girls across various fields. Their accomplishments continue to inspire us all," he added.

"Our government has concentrated on areas such as education, technology, skills, and healthcare, which have been pivotal in empowering the girl child. We remain steadfast in preventing any discrimination against her," the Prime Minister noted.

National Girl Child Day is observed annually on January 24 to promote the rights, education, health, nutrition, and overall welfare of girls.

Established in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the day acts as a platform for raising awareness about gender discrimination, advocating for equal opportunities, and cultivating an environment where girls can grow as empowered individuals.

"This day emphasizes the vital role of girls in forging a brighter, more equitable future for our nation, aligning with India’s vision of women-led development and achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047," a statement read.

"National Girl Child Day serves as a chance to confront ongoing inequalities faced by girls, including gender bias, female foeticide, issues with the child sex ratio, child marriage, and obstacles to education and health," it continued.

"It highlights the need to transform societal attitudes towards valuing and respecting girls as equals, thereby ensuring their comprehensive development," it added.

Key focus areas include enhancing girls' education, skill development, digital inclusion, engagement in STEM fields, mental health support, safety from violence, and opportunities for leadership roles.

A statement from the Ministry of Women and Child Development indicated that significant advancements have been made through persistent efforts, particularly under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, with the Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) increasing from approximately 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24 at the national level.

Additionally, the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls at the secondary level (grades 9-10) in India has seen improvement, climbing from 75.51 percent in 2014-15 to 78 percent in 2023-24.

Furthermore, the GER for girls at the secondary level is projected to reach 80.2 percent in 2024-25.