Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Scheme Drives Positive Change in Education and Gender Equality

The state of Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed a significant decline in dropout rates among girls at the secondary and higher secondary levels, thanks to the government's proactive implementation of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ scheme. This initiative has not only strengthened girls' education but has also contributed to a notable improvement in the state’s sex ratio.

Speaking at the ‘Beti Janmotsav’ programme in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley district, Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul highlighted these transformative achievements. The event was organized to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ scheme, which continues to empower young girls through education and social welfare initiatives.

Dramatic Decline in Dropout Rates Among Girls in Arunachal Pradesh

One of the most encouraging trends observed in recent years is the reduction in dropout rates among girls at the secondary and higher secondary school levels.

According to Minister Dasanglu Pul, the dropout rate has dropped sharply from 30.89% in 2019-20 to just 12.5% in 2021-22. This remarkable progress is attributed to targeted educational policies, increased community awareness, financial assistance, and infrastructural improvements in schools across the state.

Pul emphasized that the success of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring gender equality in education and providing a strong foundation for the empowerment of young girls.

Arunachal Pradesh Outperforms National Average in Sex Ratio

In addition to improvements in education, Arunachal Pradesh has also made notable progress in achieving gender balance. Pul announced that 14 out of 25 districts in the state have recorded sex ratios of over 900 females per 1,000 males in 2023-24.

The state’s overall sex ratio now stands at 948.68 females per 1,000 males, which is higher than the national average of 930 females per 1,000 males.

This upward trend in gender ratio reflects the success of various government-led awareness programs and incentives, which have encouraged families to value and support the girl child.

Five Districts Report Higher Female-to-Male Ratios

Among the most significant achievements in Arunachal Pradesh’s gender balance efforts are the impressive sex ratios recorded in five districts. Pul highlighted that Shi Yomi, East Kameng, Kamle, Upper Siang, and Tawang have reported sex ratios exceeding 1,000 females per 1,000 males in 2023-24.

This remarkable statistic demonstrates the positive impact of various policies, including financial incentives for families, gender-sensitization campaigns, and better healthcare access for women and children.

Improvement in Maternal and Child Healthcare Services

Arunachal Pradesh has also seen major improvements in maternal and child health services, particularly in the area of antenatal care (ANC) registrations during the first trimester of pregnancy.

The minister emphasized that early ANC registration is a crucial indicator of improved maternal and child healthcare, as it ensures that expecting mothers receive timely medical check-ups, nutritional support, and necessary vaccinations.

These advancements are expected to contribute to better health outcomes for both mothers and newborns, reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the long run.

Call for Greater Awareness Against Girl Child Trafficking

Despite these positive developments, Minister Pul stressed the urgent need to address concerns related to girl child safety, particularly regarding the prevention of child trafficking.

She called for increased parental and community involvement to ensure that young girls are protected from trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Strengthening law enforcement, increasing awareness, and providing secure environments for girls to study and grow are essential to maintaining the progress made so far.

Government Initiatives Strengthening Child Welfare and Adoption Policies

In addition to its focus on education and gender equality, the Arunachal Pradesh government has introduced several new measures to protect children and support child adoption.

Some of the key initiatives include: ✔ Prioritizing intra-district and intra-state adoption to ensure that children find secure homes within their communities. ✔ Creating contractual positions to efficiently manage child and women helplines, ensuring that vulnerable children receive immediate support. ✔ Allocating funds for working women’s hostels, providing safe and affordable housing for women who balance professional and family responsibilities.

These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights, enhancing women’s security, and creating an inclusive society where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

A Brighter Future for Girls in Arunachal Pradesh

The progress made under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ scheme highlights the transformative power of education and gender-sensitive policies in Arunachal Pradesh.

With a drastic reduction in dropout rates, an improved sex ratio, and better maternal healthcare services, the state is on a strong path toward ensuring equal opportunities for girls and fostering their overall development.

As the government continues to strengthen child welfare policies, promote awareness, and invest in women's empowerment initiatives, Arunachal Pradesh is emerging as a model state for gender equality and inclusive growth in India.

The commitment to education, healthcare, and safety for girls ensures that they not only survive but thrive, contributing to a stronger, more prosperous Arunachal Pradesh in the years to come.