How nationwide campaigns can help India’s fight against child marriage

The National Family Health Survey - 5 (NFHS-5) data shows that there has been a steady decline in child marriages—from 47.4% in 2005-06 to around 23.3% in 2019-21.

Yet, a 2023 UNICEF report highlights a start reality: India still accounts for one-third of the world’s child brides.

Despite the progress India has made in reducing incidents of child marriage, the burden remains the highest in the world due to the country’s large population.

The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 came into effect on  November 1, 2007 with the clear objective of eliminating child marriage, not merely restricting it. Designed as a comprehensive legal framework, the Act aims to address the issue systematically by preventing underage marriages and protecting children at risk.

The law deems any marriage involving a girl under 18 years of age or a boy under 21 years invalid, criminalises its solemnisation, and establishes mechanisms to intervene before such marriages take place.

The Act also mandates the appointment of Child Marriage Prohibition Officers by state governments. Their responsibilities include preventing child marriages, intervening in cases of imminent risk, and conducting awareness and community outreach to ensure long-term behavioural change. 

Programmes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat (Child Marriage Free India), Childline 1098-the national emergency helpline for children, child welfare committees (CWCs), District Child Protectional Units, and other institutional mechanisms have been introduced to address gender bias, promote education, and end child marriage.  

Recognising that legal enforcement alone is insufficient, the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has intensified its nationwide “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat” movement. 

On December 4, the Ministry of Women and Child will launch a 100-Day Intensive Awareness Campaign, marking one year of the national mission, according to release from the Ministry.

The campaign, structured into three phases, will be implemented in coordination with the Ministries of Health & Family Welfare, Panchayati Raj, Rural Development, and Education.

Spell 1 (Nov 27–  Dec 31 2025)

Awareness activities in schools, colleges, and universities, including debates, essay competitions, interactive sessions, and pledge ceremonies.

Spell 2 (Jan 1 – 31, 2026)

This period will see engagement with faith leaders, community influencers, and marriage service providers to amplify messages on child rights, safety, and empowerment.

Spell 3 (Feb 1– Mar 8, 2026)

Gram panchayats and municipal wards will be mobilised to pass resolutions declaring their jurisdictions child-marriage-free.

India’s concerted efforts through continuous and consistent engagement will hopefully lead to a more coordinated ecosystem. By bringing together government ministries, local governance, community leaders, and civil society, it’s on the right track to bring down the number of child marriages and promote the rights and wellbeing of adolescents.