Marking a Decade of Transformative Change
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri JP Nadda, and Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, jointly inaugurated the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme. This milestone reflects a decade of efforts to empower women and girls through a comprehensive, government-wide approach.
Highlighting the success of the initiative, Shri JP Nadda emphasized, “We have moved from women’s development to women-led development.” He noted that convergence across ministries has been key to the scheme’s impact, as it aims to address declining child sex ratios, prevent female foeticide, and promote education and empowerment for girls.
Since 2014, India has seen significant progress in maternal and child health. Maternal Mortality Rates (MMR) have dropped from 130 to 97 deaths per 100,000 live births, Infant Mortality Rates (IMR) have fallen from 39 to 28 deaths per 1,000 live births, and under-five mortality rates have declined by 75%, outpacing the global average of 60%.
A Decade of Initiatives and Achievements
In her address, Smt. Annpurna Devi hailed BBBP as a catalyst for societal transformation. “This scheme is not just a policy but an effort to change mindsets, challenge discrimination against girls, and build a brighter future for India,” she stated. She reiterated that BBBP will contribute to achieving a “Viksit Bharat” (developed India) during the Amrit Kaal under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Several initiatives were launched during the celebration, including the Mission Vatsalya Portal, Mission Shakti Portal, the Mobile App of Mission Shakti, and a compendium of BBBP best practices.
Shri Nadda highlighted the role of the Union Health Ministry in raising awareness about the PC&PNDT Act, ensuring nutrition for women and children, and providing healthcare services such as antenatal checkups and vaccinations. He commended initiatives like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Startup India, which have collectively supported women’s empowerment.
Call to Action for Women and Girls
Shri Nadda encouraged women and girls to become ambassadors of change, urging them to fight against gender discrimination and amplify their voices for empowerment. Similarly, Smt. Savitri Thakur, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development, emphasized the role of the scheme in educating and empowering girls while urging stakeholders to eliminate social barriers to women’s progress.
Inclusive Participation at the Event
The celebration brought together women officers from the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and Delhi Police, along with senior government officials, Anganwadi workers, and student volunteers from the My Bharat initiative. The event also featured an oath-taking ceremony, reaffirming collective commitment to gender equality.
With a decade of impactful initiatives, Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao continues to be a powerful medium for change, reshaping societal attitudes and advancing India’s journey toward a gender-equal and empowered future.
