Top 5 States in India with the Highest Rates of Child Marriage

Child marriage is a deeply rooted issue in India, impacting the lives of thousands of young girls every year. Despite efforts to reduce its prevalence, certain states continue to have higher incidences of child marriage. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and findings from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), these are the top five states in India where child marriage is most commonly reported:

1. Karnataka

Karnataka is one of the states that records a significant number of child marriages every year. As per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, Karnataka reported 185 cases of child marriage in 2020. The state has implemented various schemes to address this issue, but child marriage still remains a significant concern in rural areas, where traditional practices are more prevalent.

2. Assam

Assam is another state with a high prevalence of child marriages. In 2020, Assam reported 138 cases of child marriage. The situation is exacerbated by social and cultural factors, including poverty, which forces many families to marry off their daughters at a young age. Various governmental and non-governmental initiatives aim to combat this issue, but challenges persist in rural and remote regions.

3. West Bengal

With 98 cases of child marriage reported in 2020, West Bengal ranks third among the states with high child marriage rates. Though the state has made progress in addressing child marriage, the issue still affects a large portion of the population, especially in rural areas where young girls are often married off to escape financial burdens.

4. Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu, with 77 cases of child marriage recorded in 2020, is another state that faces challenges in curbing this social issue. Although the state has seen improvements in education and child welfare, cultural norms and economic pressures continue to contribute to the high rate of child marriages, particularly in more conservative rural areas.

5. Telangana

Telangana, with 62 reported cases of child marriage in 2020, rounds out the top five states with the highest incidence of child marriages in India. Despite various laws and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing child marriage, poverty and societal pressure remain significant challenges for many families in the state.

Causes Behind High Rates of Child Marriage

In these five states, the factors contributing to high rates of child marriage are complex and multifaceted. Poverty, lack of education, cultural traditions, and societal pressures often drive families to marry off their daughters at a young age. Additionally, the limited access to resources and social support systems in rural areas can exacerbate the problem.

Efforts to Combat Child Marriage

Across India, efforts to combat child marriage are being made at both the state and national levels. Various campaigns, laws, and educational programs are aimed at raising awareness about the detrimental effects of child marriage and empowering girls to pursue education and careers. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2006) is one such law that seeks to prevent child marriages, although enforcement remains a challenge.

Conclusion

While the government and various NGOs are actively working to reduce the prevalence of child marriage, the issue remains a major concern, particularly in certain states like Karnataka, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. Tackling this problem requires a multifaceted approach that includes improved access to education, stricter law enforcement, and raising awareness in communities to change deeply ingrained cultural practices.

By continuing to work toward these goals, India can make significant strides in reducing child marriage and ensuring that all children, particularly girls, have the opportunity to live healthy, productive lives free from early marriage.