Awareness Campaign Intensifies Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, Helpline Numbers Released Urging Citizen Cooperation

Against the social evil of child marriage, the District Social Security Office, Vadodara, has intensified large-scale awareness and prevention efforts under the “Child Marriage Free Vadodara” campaign. The objective of this campaign is to completely eradicate the practice of child marriage from the district.

The administration has increased vigilance, particularly keeping occasions like Akshaya Tritiya in mind, as the number of marriages is higher during this period and there is apprehension of child marriages in many places. To prevent this, a joint campaign is being run with the cooperation of the district administration, police department, child protection unit, and various social organizations.

Through awareness committees formed in rural and urban areas, people are being informed about the legal and social ill-effects of child marriage. Special emphasis is being placed on educating parents and youth about the importance of education and marriage at the right age, so they can secure their children’s future.

It is noteworthy that under the Child Marriage Prohibition Act-2006, marrying off a girl below 18 years of age or a boy below 21 years of age is a punishable offense. The administration has clarified that strict legal action will be taken not only against those who conduct the marriage but against every person involved.

Furthermore, the district administration has appealed to citizens to immediately inform the concerned department if they receive information about any child marriage. For this, Childline number 1098, Police Helpline 100, and the District Social Security Office number 0265-2428028 have been released. The administration has called upon all citizens to play an aware and responsible role, work together against malpractices like child marriage, and bring about positive change in society.

Akshaya Tritiya

Akshaya Tritiya is a highly auspicious day in the Hindu and Jain calendars, observed annually in late April or early May. It is believed to mark the beginning of the Treta Yuga and is associated with events like the birth of Lord Parasurama and the day the sacred river Ganges descended to Earth. Traditionally, it is considered a day of eternal prosperity, leading many to make significant purchases, start new ventures, or perform charitable acts.

Vadodara

Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is a major city in the Indian state of Gujarat with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It is most famously associated with the Gaekwad dynasty, which established it as a powerful princely state and cultural capital in the 18th century. Today, the city is renowned for its grand Laxmi Vilas Palace, vibrant arts scene, and status as a significant educational and industrial hub.

Child Marriage Prohibition Act-2006

The Child Marriage Prohibition Act-2006 is a key Indian law aimed at preventing the solemnization of child marriages. It was enacted to replace the earlier Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929, significantly increasing penalties and appointing “Child Marriage Prohibition Officers” for enforcement. The act represents a major legislative effort to protect children’s rights and promote gender equality by addressing the harmful social practice of early marriage.