In a bid to combat child marriage, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday a new initiative offering monthly stipends to girl students from class 11 to post-graduation over the next five years.
The scheme, named 'Nijut Moina', aims to encourage girls to pursue higher education and delay marriage.
During a press conference, Chief Minister Sarma revealed that the state cabinet has approved the scheme, with an estimated budget of Rs 1,500 crore over five years to benefit approximately 10 lakh girls. "A married girl will not get the benefit. The only exception will be those married girls who are enrolled in PG courses; they will also benefit," Sarma stated.
The primary goal of the scheme is to ensure that girls become financially independent, thereby discouraging early marriage. "This initiative is designed to delay the marriage of a girl, enabling her to become financially independent and start earning for herself and her family," Sarma explained.
He also emphasised that the scheme would significantly increase the gross enrollment ratio of girls in higher education.
Under 'Nijut Moina', girls studying in classes 11 and 12 will receive Rs 1,000 per month, while degree students will get Rs 1,250 per month. Those pursuing post-graduation will receive Rs 2,500 per month.
The scheme will exclude daughters of ministers, MLAs, and MPs, as well as students enrolled in private colleges. However, it will encompass all other girls, regardless of their financial background. The stipend will be deposited directly into the bank accounts of the students for 10 months each year, excluding the summer vacation months of June and July.
By implementing 'Nijut Moina', the Assam government aims to foster a more educated and empowered female population, thus addressing the root causes of child marriage in the state.
In 2023, the Assam government announced a stringent measure to combat child marriage by booking men who marry girls under the age of 14 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that child marriage is a significant factor contributing to the high maternal and infant mortality rates in the state.
He highlighted that 31 percent of marriages in Assam occur within the prohibited age group.
"We will launch a massive crackdown against child marriage in the state. Those marrying girls below the age of 14 will be booked under the POCSO Act," declared CM Sarma during a press conference following a cabinet meeting.
Follow us
