In a bid to combat the persistent issue of child marriage, the government of Andhra Pradesh has escalated its efforts to end this practice, particularly in regions where it is highly prevalent.
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, enacted by the Indian parliament in 2006, prohibits marriage before the age of 18 for females and 21 for males. However, in Andhra Pradesh, child marriages continue to occur, especially among girls from impoverished backgrounds.
To address this issue, the government has launched multiple initiatives. The Judicial Reforms Committee (JRC) has been actively working on enhancing the legal system’s response to cases of child marriage. Meanwhile, the Village Mobilization Mission (VMM), a program aimed at empowering village-level institutions, is focusing on educating communities about the harmful consequences of child marriages and promoting gender equality.
A key figure in these efforts has been A. Surya Kumari, the state’s Women and Child Development Minister. Speaking on the matter, she emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the rights of children are protected, particularly girls, by eliminating child marriages. She also highlighted the integral role that community involvement plays in bringing about meaningful change.
As Andhra Pradesh continues its efforts to eradicate child marriage, it serves as an example for other states grappling with similar issues. By strengthening legal systems and promoting education at the village level, the state hopes to create a safer and more equal future for its children.
