The Maharashtra government is set to take strategic measures to completely eradicate the practice of child marriage. Highlighting the adverse effects, such as reduced school enrollment for girls, early pregnancies, and malnutrition, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare emphasized the need to conduct awareness campaigns with the active participation of the Balika Panchayat (Girls’ Council).
Collaboration with UNICEF
A discussion on the matter was held on Wednesday at the ministry with UNICEF, focusing on strategies to eliminate child marriage from the state. The meeting was attended by UNICEF State Chief Sanjay Singh, child protection expert Alpa Vora, and nutrition expert Raji Nair.
Role of Balika Panchayat and Laxmi Ladki Scheme
Minister Tatkare stated that the Balika Panchayat is implemented to ensure girls’ participation in initiatives that safeguard children and prevent child marriage. To further encourage girls’ education, the Laxmi Ladki scheme is being promoted, and the government is exploring whether the scheme’s funds can be directly used to cover school fees, ensuring benefits reach the intended recipients.
Learning from Best Practices
Maharashtra already has a lower prevalence of child marriage compared to other states, and awareness programs are regularly conducted. Officials were instructed to study states where campaigns to prevent child marriage have been successful and prepare a report based on their best practices.
Empowering Girls and Improving Outcomes
Eradicating child marriage is expected to empower adolescent girls, increase their participation in higher education, prevent early pregnancies, and reduce malnutrition.
