IRMA Supports Government's 'Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat' Campaign to End Child Marriage

In a show of solidarity with the Indian government's nationwide initiative against child marriage, the Integrated Rural Management Association (IRMA) joined local authorities in organizing rallies and pledge-taking ceremonies in the district. This took place alongside the launch of the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat (Child Marriage Free India) campaign in New Delhi, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.

The district administration, in collaboration with IRMA, hosted a series of awareness programs aimed at eliminating child marriage. District Magistrate Paotinsei Kipgen, who attended the event, emphasized the district's commitment to achieving a child marriage-free status, stating, "We resolve to make this district child marriage free."

IRMA, a key partner of the Just Rights for Children (JRC) alliance—a network of over 250 NGOs advocating for child protection—has been actively engaged in promoting child rights across more than 400 districts in India. As part of this initiative, the district hosted a pledge-taking ceremony at Phaijang Relief Camp, where villagers, village heads, Child Marriage Protection Officers (CMPO), ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, teachers, and women survivors of child marriage came together to commit to ending the practice.

The Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign was officially launched by Women and Child Development Minister Annpurna Devi at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on November 27. The campaign aims to eliminate child marriage across the country and reach 25 crore people. A national portal to report child marriages was also introduced during the launch event.

Addressing the ceremony, Kipgen spoke about the severe consequences of child marriage, noting that both parents involved in a child marriage could face imprisonment for up to two years. He emphasized the importance of reporting child marriages and other forms of child abuse, exploitation, and molestation, underscoring the need for greater vigilance within society.

T. Lamjaneng Haokip of IRMA expressed optimism about the government's campaign, stating, "While we have been working alongside government authorities and local leaders to raise awareness and prevent child marriages, this campaign provides us with renewed energy and support. We are encouraged to see that the long struggle against child marriage is finally nearing its end. This campaign proves that India will no longer tolerate child marriage, and we will do everything in our power to ensure every child enjoys a rightful childhood."

The ongoing efforts of IRMA, the district administration, and the nationwide campaign signal a powerful movement against child marriage, bringing hope for a future where children can grow up free from early marriage and its harmful consequences.