Crossing Rivers and Streams to Save a Future

‘Child Marriage Free Chhattisgarh’ Campaign Gains Ground at the Grassroots

Raipur, January 2026 : The “Child Marriage Free Chhattisgarh” campaign being implemented by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai is increasingly taking effective shape at the grassroots level. Due to the alertness and sensitivity of the Women and Child Development Department and the district administration, a child marriage involving a 12-year-old girl was successfully prevented in time in a remote and inaccessible area, after officials crossed rivers and streams to reach the village. This swift intervention not only secured the future of an innocent child but also sent a strong message to society against the social evil of child marriage.

According to information received, on January 2, 2026, the administration was alerted about the marriage of a minor girl in the remote village of Nadigufa under Gram Panchayat Ramaram in Sukma development block. Taking the information seriously, immediate instructions were issued under the guidance of the District Collector to initiate necessary action. Subsequently, a joint team was formed under the leadership of the District Women and Child Development Officer, comprising the District Child Protection Unit, Childline, and departmental staff.

Despite swollen rivers, streams and extremely difficult geographical conditions, the team travelled on foot to reach the village and intervened in the marriage process at the right time. Upon reaching the spot, it was found that all preparations for the marriage had already been completed in accordance with traditional customs and rituals.

The officials sensitively explained to the family members and villagers the provisions of the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006, the associated legal responsibilities, and the serious social consequences of child marriage. The administration’s counselling had a positive impact, and the family voluntarily agreed to stop the child marriage. In the presence of villagers, a formal panchnama was prepared to document and formalise the action taken.

During the intervention, the family was also encouraged to re-enrol the girl in the mainstream education system and to ensure her safe, dignified and secure future. Information was also provided about various government schemes related to child protection and education.

It is noteworthy that the “Child Marriage Free Chhattisgarh” campaign was launched by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on March 10, 2024. Under Section 16 of the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006, the state government has notified 13,823 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers. As a result of the effective implementation of the campaign, 189 child marriages have been prevented across the state by November 2025.

Due to the continuous efforts of the state government and active public participation, Balod district has already been declared a completely child marriage-free district, serving as an inspiration for the entire state. For the year 2025–26, the state government has set a target to declare 50 percent of Gram Panchayats and urban local bodies child marriage-free by March 31, 2026, and to make Chhattisgarh a completely child marriage-free state by March 31, 2029.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Lakshmi Rajwade have made it clear that ensuring a safe, educated and dignified future for children is the highest priority of the state government. Administrative vigilance, public awareness and swift action to eradicate social evils like child marriage will continue with unwavering commitment.