Short Description:
Union Minister JP Nadda emphasizes the Indian government’s commitment to combating misuse of technology for illegal sex determination as the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ initiative celebrates its 10-year milestone.
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Article: Government’s Stand on Gender Bias and Technology Abuse in India
The ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ (BBBP) initiative, launched on January 22, 2015, has reached a significant milestone, marking ten years of commitment towards gender equality in India. This program was initiated in response to the alarming decline in the child sex ratio, aiming to prevent gender-biased sex-selection and ensure the survival, protection, and education of the girl child. Union Health Minister JP Nadda recently reaffirmed the government’s focus on strictly enforcing the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act. During a recent event held at Vigyan Bhawan, he highlighted the challenges posed by advancing technology, stating that new and potentially illegal methods for sex determination continue to emerge. The minister reaffirmed the government’s vigilance in tackling these evolving threats, demonstrating a proactive approach to gender discrimination.
The accomplishments of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ initiative reflect a positive trend in India’s societal attitudes towards gender. The sex ratio at birth has notably increased from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24. This rise serves as a critical indicator of progress and reflects a significant shift in public awareness regarding the importance of valuing female children. Additionally, recent statistics reveal improvements in the gross enrollment ratio for girls in secondary education, which has climbed from 75.5% to 78%. Furthermore, institutional deliveries have surged from 61% to an impressive 97.3%, while registration for first-trimester antenatal care has increased significantly from 61% to 80.5%. These statistics underscore the effectiveness of the BBBP initiative in fostering an environment where girls can receive the education and healthcare they deserve, bolstering their prospects for a brighter future.
However, despite the positive trends, concerns remain. Prominent political figures, such as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, have raised questions regarding the progress of women’s rights in India. Kharge challenged the government on issues of justice for women affected by violence and discrimination, as the Protect Our Daughters campaign brings focus to systemic issues that still plague society. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in response, lauded the initiative as a transformative movement that transcends political boundaries, encouraging grassroots participation for genuine social change. The government’s continued commitment to raise awareness about gender equality is crucial as the program’s achievements are planned to be celebrated leading up to International Women’s Day on March 8.
Short Summary:
The successful ten-year journey of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ initiative emphasizes the Indian government’s dedication to combating gender bias and ensuring educational opportunities for girls. With impressive advancements in child sex ratios and educational enrollment, the initiative marks a significant step towards gender equality, despite ongoing challenges highlighted by political leaders.
