The empowerment of women stands central to the progress of any society, and India is no different. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched by the Indian Government in 2015, is a testament to this fact. Designed to address the skewed child sex ratio and issues of female foeticide, this scheme has grown to encompass a broader range of initiatives to empower girls.
The primary objective of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao is to ensure the survival, protection, and education of the girl child. This scheme targets a social mindset that often perceives girls as a burden. Having a holistic approach, BBBP campaigns work at various levels – from countering deep-seated prejudices, ensuring rights and protection, to promoting girls’ education.
The primary strategy employed is awareness generation about the grave consequences of a reduced number of girls and the importance of their education. Workshops, street plays, and door-to-door campaigns are actively used to disseminate information. The government has also partnered with local NGOs to drive changes at the grassroots level. An accelerated media campaign has been vital to circulate the message far and wide.
The application of stringent laws against sex determination tests and female foeticide is another critical pillar of BBBP. The scheme works closely with the Ministry of Health and the Indian Medical Association to enforce the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994.
Another essential strategy to empower girls through BBBP is financial incentives. The scheme operates in tandem with Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, which encourages parents to build a fund for the future education and marriage expenses of their girl child. The scheme offers a high-interest rate of 7.6% and the amount, which is minimum INR 250 and goes up to INR 1.5 lakhs in a financial year, is tax-deductible under Section 80C of the Indian Income Tax Act.
One of the most potent strategies is promoting girls’ education. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has been tirelessly working at state and district levels to increase enrollment of girls in schools and reduce the drop-out rates. Having a robust education can empower girls, making them financially independent and opinionated individuals who can contribute significantly to society.
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign has made significant strides in changing societal attitudes towards girls. Still, several challenges lie ahead. Continuous efforts are required to ensure that every girl child is cherished and given equal opportunities. This can be achieved through sustained awareness campaigns, strict adherence to the laws, financial support for girl’s education, health services, and above all, an unwavering commitment to the cause.
It has been rightly said that ‘When you educate a man, you educate an individual, but when you educate a woman, you educate a nation.’ Empowering girls can set a direct path towards gender equality, poverty reduction, and economic growth. Therefore, schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao need to be understood, appreciated and effectively utilized for the betterment of society.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers are advised to research further and consult professionals before making financial decisions.
Summary
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, a government scheme launched in 2015, aims to empower girls through a multifaceted approach. It focuses on shifting societal mindsets that perceive girls as a burden, enforcing laws against sex determination tests and female foeticide, and most importantly, promoting girls’ education. Coupled with monetary incentives like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, the scheme encourages parents to invest in their daughters’ futures. While the scheme has made considerable strides, ongoing efforts are required to ensure every girl child is cherished and provided equal opportunities. Empowering girls can chart a direct path towards gender equality, poverty reduction, and economic growth, making the realization of schemes like BBBP critical for societal progression. However, readers are advised to consult professionals before making financial decisions.
