Beti Bachao Beti Padhao

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao logo

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) is a government initiative launched by the Government of India aimed at promoting the welfare of the girl child. It translates to "Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter" and was launched on 22 January 2015 by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The scheme addresses the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and is a part of the Indian government's efforts to improve the efficiency of welfare services intended for girls in India.

Background

India has faced a declining trend in the sex ratio at birth (SRB) since the 1960s. The phenomenon of missing women, as highlighted by economist Amartya Sen, pointed towards the ingrained gender bias in Indian society. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme was introduced against this backdrop, aiming to combat female foeticide and educate the girl child.

Objectives

The primary objective of the BBBP scheme is to prevent gender-biased sex selective elimination, ensure survival and protection of the girl child, and ensure education and participation of the girl child. The scheme focuses on multi-sectoral interventions in gender-critical districts and improving the declining child sex ratio in selected districts.

Implementation

BBBP is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Ministry of Education. It initially focused on districts with low Child Sex Ratio, covering various aspects like prevention of gender-biased sex selection, ensuring survival and protection of the girl child, and ensuring her education and participation.

Impact

The scheme has led to increased awareness and sensitization of the masses regarding the prevalence of gender bias and the importance of the girl child. Various districts have reported improvements in their SRB since the implementation of the scheme. However, the effectiveness and the reach of the scheme continue to be a subject of study and debate.

Challenges

Despite its noble intentions, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme faces several challenges, including the deep-rooted patriarchal mindset, implementation gaps, and the misuse of funds. Ensuring the scheme's benefits reach the grassroots level remains a significant challenge.

Conclusion

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme is a critical step towards changing societal attitudes and improving the status of the girl child in India. While it has made strides in creating awareness and improving the Child Sex Ratio in targeted districts, continuous efforts and multi-sectoral cooperation are essential for its success.