Preventing Child Marriage in Surajpur District

In collaboration with the District Administration and the Women and Child Development Department, UNICEF and Yuva Saathi Foundation have launched a comprehensive awareness campaign to prevent child marriage in Surajpur district, strategically timed around Akshaya Tritiya on May 10.

The campaign's primary objective is to educate the community about the legal implications and social consequences of child marriage, aiming to prevent such practices and promote the well-being and education of children. By encouraging legal age compliance (18 years for girls and 21 years for boys), the campaign has employed a multi-faceted approach: 

- Public Awareness: Banners and posters displayed at public institutions and urban areas.

- Community Engagement: Wall writings, rangoli, and paintings to draw attention to the issue.

- Educational Outreach: Oaths and informative sessions to spread awareness.

- Strategic Placements: Posters and banners placed at religious sites, tourist attractions, and public institutions.

- Reporting Mechanism: Public encouraged to report instances of child marriage by calling 1098. 

The campaign has successfully raised awareness about the legal age for marriage and the consequences of child marriage. Active participation from various segments of society, including religious places, businesses, and public institutions, has been achieved. The initiative facilitated collaboration between the district administration, Women and Child Development Department, UNICEF, Yuva Saathi Foundation, CG We The People Foundation, and local communities.

Positive feedback from the community indicates a shift in attitudes towards child marriage and a willingness to adhere to legal age requirements for marriage. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of continuous education and community engagement in the fight against child marriage, paving the way for a healthier and more educated future generation.