Child Marriages in India: A Barrier to Equality and De

Child Marriages in India: A Barrier to Equality and Development

The latest Statistical Report of the Sample Registration System, released in September 2025, presents a concerning picture of child marriages in India. The data shows that early marriage remains a major barrier to girls’ education, health, dignity and economic participation.

Child marriage affects long-term development because it increases risks of school dropout, early pregnancy, poor maternal health and intergenerational poverty. The figures highlight the need for legal enforcement along with education, awareness and financial support to keep girls in school.

Key Finding	Details
Female Marriage before 18	Among bigger States/UTs, West Bengal recorded the highest proportion of females getting married before 18 at 6.3%.
Other States	West Bengal is followed by Jharkhand at 4.6%, while the lowest is Kerala at 0.1%.
National Level	At the national level, 2.1% of females got married before the age of 18 years.
Rural-Urban Divide	In rural areas, the figure was 2.5%; in urban areas, it stood at 1.2%.
Rural Areas	West Bengal recorded the highest rural proportion at 5.8%, followed by Jharkhand at 5.2%.
Urban Areas	West Bengal reported the highest urban proportion at 7.6%, followed by Jammu & Kashmir at 3.5% and Odisha at 2.8%.

Measures Taken by the Government to Check Child Marriage

Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: Criminalises child marriage and prohibits marriage for girls under 18 and boys under 21.
Juvenile Justice Act, 2015: Provides care and protection for children at risk of early marriage.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, 2015: Promotes gender equality and empowers girls through education and awareness.
Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign, 2024: Nationwide initiative to eliminate child marriage through education.
State Schemes: Programmes like Rajasthan’s Action Approach and West Bengal’s Kanyashree and Rupashree offer financial support to delay marriage and keep girls in school.

PT Facts

Report: Statistical Report of the Sample Registration System.
Released: September 2025.
Highest State: West Bengal, 6.3% females married before 18.
National Figure: 2.1% females married before 18.
Rural Figure: 2.5%; Urban figure: 1.2%.

Source:

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