Staff Reporter, Guwahati: Assam has recorded a dramatic 81% reduction in child marriage cases across 20 of its 35 districts between 2021–22 and 2023–24, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Sunday. The significant decline, attributed to aggressive legal and administrative action, is part of the state government’s broader mission to completely eliminate child marriage by 2026.The Chief Minister, speaking after attending the NDA Chief Ministers’ conclave, highlighted Assam’s success in curbing child marriages as a model for other states. The conclave, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saw Assam’s efforts praised by Union ministers and chief ministers from across the country.Sarma noted that Prime Minister Modi not only appreciated the "relentless and vigorous" drive undertaken by the Assam government but also urged other National Democratic Alliance (NDA) states to adopt similar strategies to combat child marriage. Modi further instructed central officials to visit Assam for a closer look at the measures implemented to curb the practice effectively.The state’s campaign has focused on a combination of legal enforcement, public awareness, and grassroots monitoring. Police crackdowns on offenders, community outreach, and coordination with local leaders have played a crucial role in changing societal attitudes toward early marriages.According to the official release, the initiative’s success reflects the state government’s strong resolve and sustained action in protecting children’s rights and ensuring their education and well-being. Assam’s efforts are part of a wider national conversation on women’s empowerment and child protection.During the conclave, the participating chief ministers also shared their states’ innovative practices in other priority areas such as water conservation, governance reforms, education, grievance redressal mechanisms, women’s welfare, and promotion of sports.With continued commitment, the Assam government aims to reach its goal of completely eradicating child marriage in the next two years, setting a precedent for other states to follow in safeguarding the future of young girls.
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