National Girl Child Day is observed every year on January 24th in India. This important day was launched in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development to raise awareness about the rights of girls and to shed light on the inequalities they face in Indian society.
Objective
• Promoting gender equality
• Increasing awareness about the vital role of education, nutrition, and healthcare for girls
• Addressing serious issues like female foeticide, child marriage, and discrimination based on gender
• Empowering girls and encouraging their involvement in every area of life
Why January 24?
The date signifies when the Government of India put laws in place to combat gender-based discrimination, shining a light on the rights and welfare of girl children. It also reflects the national commitment to fostering an inclusive and equal society.
Government Initiatives for Girls
Several schemes have been launched in support of girl children in India, including:
- Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter): A flagship program aimed at improving the Child Sex Ratio and promoting education among girls.
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A savings scheme for the financial security of the girl child.
- CBSE Udaan: A scheme to support girl students in STEM education.
- Kanya Shiksha Pravesh Utsav: A recent initiative aimed at bringing out-of-school girls back to the education system.
