The Centre for Women’s Studies, University of Jammu, organized a one-day Awareness Workshop today on the theme: ‘Educate Girls, End Child Marriage: A Path of Equality’ under Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign initiated by Ministry of Women and Child Development, New Delhi for the Anganwadi Workers and Supervisor at CDPO office, Bishnah, Jammu.

At the outset Dr. Saranjit Kaur, faculty, Centre for Women’s Studies, welcomed the participants and introduced the objectives of the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign. She expressed gratitude to Ms. Anjum, CDPO Bishnah, for hosting the event.

The first session of the workshop was conducted by Prof. Savita Nayyar, Director, Centre for Women’s Studies. She emphasized the critical role of education in eradicating child marriage and discussed the legal frameworks, including the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. Prof. Nayyar explained that child marriages involving girls under 18 and boys under 21 are strictly prohibited, with violators facing fines and imprisonment. She supported her discussion with few case studies to provide practical insights.

Earlier Dr. Saranjit Kaur, spoke that this campaign aims to empower daughters by ensuring that they receive education and protection that they deserve. Further she added that this campaign is not just an event it is a mission to eradicate child marriage and empower every daughter in the nation.

Ms. Kunzang Angmo emphasized the importance of creating a progressive and equitable society where every child can fully realize their potential. She also addressed issues like women’s health, nutrition, and hygiene, encouraging women to break traditional myths and prioritize their well-being.

The participants enthusiastically participated in the workshop and shared their personal experiences as well as raised many queries which were answered to their satisfaction. The formal vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Saranjit Kaur.