New Delhi: Girl child empowerment has received a strong boost through the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative. The programme has promoted healthcare, education and protection for girls across India.
The Government of India launched the scheme on January 22, 2015. It aimed to address the declining Child Sex Ratio and gender discrimination.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Education jointly run the programme. Over the past 11 years, it has grown into a nationwide movement.
Moreover, the campaign has brought together governments, communities, media and civil society organisations. It has encouraged a positive shift in attitudes towards girls.
Girl child empowerment improves through better social indicators
According to Health Management Information System data, the national Sex Ratio at Birth increased from 918 in 2014-15 to 929 in 2024-25.
Therefore, the improvement reflects continuous efforts against gender-biased sex selection and supports safer institutional deliveries.
In addition, education indicators have shown steady progress. Unified District Information System for Education data revealed that girls’ enrolment at the secondary level increased from 75.51% in 2014-15 to 80.2% in 2024-25.
Furthermore, the initiative follows a lifecycle approach from birth to adulthood. It focuses on early childhood care, education and equal opportunities.
Besides this, awareness campaigns and community participation have strengthened implementation across States and Union Territories.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development said it will continue improving the programme. It aims to ensure that every girl receives protection, education and opportunities.
Consequently, the initiative supports the vision of women-led development. It also encourages greater participation of women in India’s social and economic progress.
