The 10th anniversary of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ initiative is being celebrated. Some reflections are needed. This campaign has made a profound impact in changing societal attitudes towards gender equality in India. The campaign was launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative aimed to address the critical issues of gender-based sex selection. This was to ensure the survival and protection of the girl child and promote her education. Over the past decade, ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ has achieved some of its objectives. It has also become a symbol of hope and empowerment for millions of girls across the nation.
The campaign’s success can be attributed to its multi-faceted approach. This included awareness campaigns, community engagement, and policy interventions. One of the most significant achievements of the initiative has been the improvement in the national sex ratio at birth. Districts with historically low child-sex ratios have reported significant improvements. This is thanks to the dedicated efforts of the people and various community service organizations. This positive change is a testament to the power of collective action. It also emphasises the importance of addressing deeply rooted societal biases.
Education has been a cornerstone of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative. The primary objective of this campaign was to promote the importance of educating girls. This has helped create an environment where girls can thrive and achieve their dreams. Women have increasingly started participating in various fields, including the police force and entrepreneurship, previously male-dominated fields. Women entrepreneurs now own 1.4 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This is a significant achievement that highlights the growing opportunities for women in India.
The impact of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ extends beyond the numbers. It has played a crucial role in changing societal attitudes toward gender equality. The campaign has instilled a sense of pride and confidence in girls and their families, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations without fear of discrimination. The initiative has also fostered a sense of responsibility among communities. They are focused on protecting the rights of their daughters and ensuring their well-being.
As we celebrate this milestone, the efforts of all stakeholders are worth noting. They ensured the success of this initiative. Everyone played a vital role in making this movement vibrant at the grassroots level, whether government officials, community leaders, educators, or activists. Their dedication and commitment have been instrumental in overcoming gender biases. They created a society where girls can access education and opportunities to achieve their dreams1.
Looking ahead, it is crucial to continue building on the successes of the past decade. But there is still much work to be done. We need to ensure that every girl in India can live a life free from discrimination and violence. Continuing to support and expand initiatives like ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao,’ can create a more equitable future for all.
