How Can States Achieve a Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister Annpurna Devi emphasizes the need for states to achieve a Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat.
- Government's initiatives have improved the sex ratio and increased girls' enrollment in schools.
- Rs 1,827 crore allocated for girls' scholarships.
- Community involvement is vital for ending child marriage.
- Over 26 lakh citizens have participated in the campaign.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) The states should strive for a Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat, asserted Union Minister for Women and Child Development (WCD) Annpurna Devi during the launch of the second edition of a 100-Day intensive awareness initiative aimed at creating a country free from child marriage.
Devi highlighted the government's persistent efforts that have led to a better sex ratio at birth, a rise in girls' school enrolment, and the overall empowering of women and girls.
The Minister also mentioned that the Union Government has earmarked Rs 1,827 crore for scholarships to support girls, ensuring their educational journey continues.
She pointed out that India's daughters are achieving remarkable success globally, with girls representing 43 percent of the STEM workforce, one of the highest rates in the world.
“Child marriage is not just a legal breach but a profound moral injustice,” Devi stated.
“States and UTs need to actively work towards minimizing child marriage prevalence to the point of near non-existence,” she urged.
The WCD Minister of State, Savitri Thakur, emphasized the importance of community involvement and grassroots initiatives in the campaign.
“Abolishing child marriage is crucial for fostering a strong and developed Bharat grounded in social responsibility and collective vigilance,” she added.
Thakur also highlighted the vital contributions of panchayats, faith leaders, youth groups, and community networks in promptly reporting and preventing child marriage.
She referred to significant initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PMMVY, Poshan Abhiyaan, and One Stop Centres, which have fortified safety, nutrition, entitlements, and support systems for girls at the grassroots level.
She urged families and local institutions to ensure that no daughter is wed before reaching the legal age, reinforcing that the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is a genuine Jan Andolan.
“The improved Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Portal now allows seamless access for over 38,000 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) throughout the nation,” noted Anil Mallik, Secretary of the WCD.
He informed that citizens can monitor district-wise progress, review actions taken, and engage by making online pledges. He further noted that over 26 lakh citizens and frontline workers have already participated in campaign activities, showcasing robust public mobilization and increasing community involvement.