The 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' scheme has significantly improved the Child Sex Ratio and girls' education in India, according to the government. The initiative promotes societal change and empowerment for women.
New Delhi, India Aug 1, 2026 ALN: The Centre on Friday announced that the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' (BBBP) scheme has played a pivotal role in enhancing the Child Sex Ratio and empowering girls and women across the nation. This initiative aims to drive behavioral and social change regarding the value of the girl child. Launched in 2015, the BBBP scheme was introduced in response to alarming statistics regarding the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) in India, which had raised concerns about gender discrimination and the societal preference for male children. The initiative focuses on addressing these deep-rooted issues by promoting the importance of the girl child and ensuring her right to education and health.
In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur emphasized that the scheme focuses on altering societal attitudes towards girls by informing, influencing, motivating, engaging, and empowering various stakeholders. This multi-faceted approach involves collaboration with local communities, educational institutions, and government agencies to create an environment that values and supports girls. The initiative also includes campaigns aimed at changing perceptions about gender roles and the significance of girls in society.
During the 15th Finance Commission period, the BBBP scheme was expanded as a component under the SAMBAL vertical of Mission Shakti, covering all districts in India through multi-sectoral interventions. This expansion places greater emphasis on activities that yield tangible outcomes at the grassroots level. The SAMBAL initiative aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the welfare of women and children, integrating various schemes and programs to maximize their impact. By incorporating the BBBP scheme into this broader framework, the government seeks to ensure that efforts to promote gender equality are sustained and reinforced across different sectors.
The minister noted that the program has evolved from a mere policy initiative into a nationwide movement, uniting government agencies, media organizations, civil society groups, and the public to promote the importance of the girl child. This collective effort has been crucial in raising awareness and mobilizing support for gender equality initiatives. The involvement of various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community leaders, has helped to amplify the message and reach a wider audience, fostering a culture that values and supports girls.
Citing the latest Health Management Information System (HMIS) data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the minister reported that the national Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) improved from 918 in 2014-15 to 929 in 2025-26 (provisional). In Delhi, the SRB also showed a positive trend, rising from 901 to 915 during the same period. This improvement in the sex ratio is indicative of changing attitudes towards the girl child, as families increasingly recognize the value of daughters and the importance of their well-being. The government's efforts to promote gender equality, coupled with community engagement and awareness campaigns, have contributed to this positive shift.
Additionally, the minister highlighted advancements in girls' education. According to data from the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) under the Ministry of Education, the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of girls at the secondary school level increased nationally from 75.51 percent in 2014-15 to 83.4 percent in 2025-26. This significant increase reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that girls have equal access to education and the resources needed to succeed academically. Educational initiatives under the BBBP scheme have focused on improving infrastructure, providing scholarships, and creating safe learning environments for girls.
In Delhi, the GER for girls at the secondary level surged from 99.13 percent in 2014-15 to 108.3 percent in 2025-26, indicating significant improvements in both enrolment and retention rates in schools. The increase in the GER above 100 percent suggests that efforts to promote girls' education have not only succeeded in enrolling girls but also in encouraging them to continue their education. This is a promising development, as education is a critical factor in empowering girls and promoting gender equality.
The minister reiterated that the scheme's objective is to foster lasting behavioral and social transformation in how girls are perceived and valued. Due to its awareness-driven nature, the number of direct beneficiaries cannot be quantified in conventional terms. However, the ripple effects of the BBBP initiative can be seen in the growing recognition of the importance of girls in society and the increasing support for initiatives aimed at their empowerment. The government aims to create an environment where girls are not just seen as secondary citizens but as valuable contributors to society.
Overall, the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' initiative continues to make strides in improving the status of girls in India, reflecting a commitment to gender equality and empowerment. The positive changes in the Child Sex Ratio and girls' education are encouraging signs that the initiative is resonating with communities across the country. However, challenges remain, and sustained efforts will be necessary to ensure that these gains are not only maintained but also expanded. The government recognizes that achieving true gender equality requires ongoing work and collaboration among all sectors of society.
As the initiative progresses, it will be essential to monitor its impact and adapt strategies as needed to address emerging challenges. The government is committed to ensuring that the rights of girls are upheld and that they are provided with the opportunities and support necessary to thrive. The success of the BBBP scheme serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action in addressing social issues and fostering a more equitable society for all.
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