Assam: In a concerted effort to create a Child Marriage-Free Gram Panchayat, Kadong GP in Barpeta hosted an awareness rally and community meeting on February 18, 2025. The event was organized by the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), under the Women and Child Development Department of Barpeta, in partnership with the Piramal Foundation.
The event began with a vibrant rally, flagged off by Smt. Mousumi Chetia, ACS, Additional District Commissioner of Barpeta. Schoolchildren led the march, holding colorful posters and chanting anti-child marriage slogans, capturing the attention of the local community.
Following the rally, a high-level meeting was held, chaired by the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) of Barpeta, with participation from officials of the Child Development Project Office (CDPO), District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), the Health Department, and local representatives. Discussions centered around empowering girls through education, opportunities, and awareness of their legal rights.
A health expert emphasized the dangerous physical and psychological effects of child marriage, while a DCPU representative urged vigilance in enforcing the legal protections for children.
A Poster Making Competition was also organized, where students creatively conveyed their stance against child marriage. The initiative not only educated but empowered students to become agents of change within their own communities.
The event was part of an ongoing series of interventions across Barpeta district, supported by the Piramal Foundation, aiming to raise awareness and eliminate the practice of child marriage.
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