One girl is worth more than twenty boys.- Peter Pan
National Girl Child Day, observed annually on January 24, is a crucial initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in India. It was launched in 2008 as part of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, aiming to address the challenges faced by girls in Indian society and promote gender equality.
The primary objectives of National Girl Child Day include promoting gender equality, empowering girls through education and skills, protecting their rights against gender-based violence and harmful practices, and addressing issues such as child marriage. The day reinforces objectives such as eliminating inequalities, ensuring respect and value for each girl child, upholding human rights, maintaining a balanced child-sex ratio, changing societal perspectives, and addressing issues related to health, education, and nutrition.
The inaugural celebration 2008, entitled "Saving our Girls: Educating our Girls," marked the start of an annual tradition. Since then, other themes have focused on empowering girls and addressing specific challenges that affect them.
National Girl Child Day aims to address gender injustice in Indian society. It advocates for empowering girls who confront inequality, violence, and limited opportunity. The day represents a commitment to altering stereotypes and fostering the development of the girl child.
National Girl Child Day also emphasises the importance of girls' health and well-being. Adequate nutrition, access to healthcare, and hygiene awareness all help girls develop as whole people. Efforts should be made to break down health stereotypes by encouraging girls to participate in sports and physical activities that promote a healthier lifestyle.
Community involvement is critical for fostering an environment in which girls feel respected and supported. National Girl Child Day encourages communities to work together to address girls' particular difficulties and create equal opportunity. Collective efforts can result in healthy attitudes and behaviours, creating a culture in which every girl can thrive.
National Girl Child Day is a strong reminder of the value of nurturing, supporting, and empowering girls. By concentrating on education, health, and gender-based discrimination, we can build a world in which every girl can fulfil her full potential. Celebrating girls' achievements and encouraging a more inclusive and supportive society ensures a better and more equitable future for the female child.
Child Help Foundation along with its crowdfunding partner Filaantro since its inception has always strived to work for the betterment of girl children. From Emergency Medical Assistance, Education, Health and Sustainable livelihood the organisation has left no stone unturned to make a better living for them. Apart from these, regular sessions in schools on topics such as hygiene, POSH, and POCSO have been conducted for more awareness. Even the distribution of sanitary pads and check-ups has been looked upon. The organisation truly believes in the notion of ‘Mulgi Shikali, Pragati Zalli’.