In a bold and progressive step towards curbing child marriages and promoting girls' education, the Assam government has announced a new financial assistance scheme targeting female students across the state. As per Indian Express reports, this initiative is designed to encourage girls to pursue higher education and achieve economic independence, thereby reducing the incidence of child marriages in Assam.
Under the newly launched scheme, the government will provide financial incentives to female students who complete their Class 10 and Class 12 examinations. Specifically, those who complete Class 10 will receive ₹10,000, while those who complete Class 12 will be awarded ₹20,000. The financial assistance will be disbursed through the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission and is aimed at girls from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and tea garden communities.
This initiative is seen as a crucial measure in Assam, a state that has one of the highest rates of child marriages in India. By providing financial support, the government hopes to create a more conducive environment for girls to continue their education, decreasing the likelihood of early marriages. The scheme is expected to empower girls by reducing financial barriers to education and offering them the means to become self-reliant and economically independent.
The Assam government’s commitment to girls' education and empowerment is evident in this initiative. By investing in the future of its young women, the state is making strides towards ending child marriages and ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to realise her potential. The scheme is anticipated to have a ripple effect, inspiring more girls to stay in school, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to society.
As Assam continues on this path, the success of this initiative could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar challenges. The government’s approach underscores the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and early marriage, offering hope for a new generation of empowered and educated women in Assam.