Decline Child Marriage in India 2025

Recent data reveal a significant reduction in child marriage in India. A new report by Just Rights for Children highlights a 69% decline among girls and a 72% decline among boys. This progress is attributed to coordinated efforts by the Government of India, state authorities, and civil society organizations.

The report was presented at a UN General Assembly side event in New York, marking a hopeful shift towards a child marriage-free India.

Current Status of Child Marriage in India

Child marriage rates have dropped dramatically in recent years. Among the states, Assam leads with an 84% decline in girl child marriages, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar, each with a 70% decline. Rajasthan and Karnataka show reductions of 66% and 55%, respectively. Key factors contributing to this decline include stricter legal enforcement, with more arrests and FIRs against offenders, and widespread awareness campaigns.

The government’s Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign has played a pivotal role in creating awareness about laws against child marriage. Today, most people are aware of India's marriage laws related to child protection and feel comfortable reporting violations. This increased vigilance has strengthened the deterrent against early marriage.

Role of Government and Civil Society

The decline in child marriage in India is largely credited to joint efforts by the Government of India, state governments, and over 250 NGOs under the Just Rights for Children network. Awareness campaigns have been conducted through schools, panchayats, and community-based programs. Frontline workers like ASHA, anganwadi workers, and PRI members have been instrumental in collecting data, providing support, and monitoring interventions.

These initiatives also align with government and NGO efforts to prevent child marriage in India, including stricter enforcement of laws and increased reporting of cases. Improved legal mechanisms and awareness have ensured that offenders are held accountable, making communities more vigilant about child protection.

Education and Barriers for Girls

Education is one of the most critical factors in reducing girl child marriage. According to the study, in 31% of surveyed villages, all girls aged 6–18 attend school. However, disparities persist. Bihar shows only 9% full attendance, while Maharashtra reaches 51%.

Barriers to education include:

• Poverty (88% of respondents)

• Lack of infrastructure (47%)

• Safety concerns (42%)

• Transportation issues (24%)

These obstacles increase girls’ vulnerability to early marriage and highlight the importance of programs that combine education with awareness about child marriage laws in India.

Reasons Behind Child Marriage

Poverty remains the primary cause, cited by 91% of respondents. Families often marry off girls to reduce economic burdens or protect them from perceived harm. Traditions and social norms continue to play a role; nearly half of the respondents believe marriage protects minor girls. Addressing these deep-rooted beliefs is essential alongside educational and economic interventions.

Understanding the causes of child marriage in India helps design effective strategies. Awareness about child marriage statistics in India and targeted interventions can prevent new cases and reduce the prevalence of existing practices.

Methodology of the Study

The report is based on data from 757 villages across five states, representing India’s diverse social and cultural contexts. The study used multistage stratified random sampling, with data collected through frontline workers and community members.

This method ensured reliable, ground-level information about child marriage in India, trends, and challenges.

State-Wise Progress

State-wise data demonstrates the impact of initiatives:

• Assam: 84% decline in girl child marriages

• Maharashtra: 70% decline

• Bihar: 70% decline

• Rajasthan: 66% decline

• Karnataka: 55% decline

This state-wise child marriage decline in India showcases how legal enforcement, education, and social awareness work together to combat child marriage.

Government Schemes and Campaigns

Several schemes have contributed to this positive trend:

• Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign, child marriage prevention programs

• Awareness drives through schools and panchayats.

• Frontline workers supporting families and monitoring compliance

These efforts ensure that communities are informed about child marriage laws in India and empowered to report violations.

Final Thoughts.

Child Marriage in India has seen a remarkable decline in recent years, with reports showing a 69% drop among girls and a 72% drop among boys. Child Marriage in India remains a critical social issue, but coordinated efforts by the government, NGOs, and community workers are driving change. Awareness campaigns like the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign and strict enforcement of child marriage laws in India have been instrumental.

Education, poverty reduction, and legal action are key factors in preventing child marriage in India. States like Assam, Maharashtra, and Bihar show significant progress, highlighting that child marriage in India can be effectively reduced through persistent efforts.

Addressing social norms and improving education remain essential to ending child marriage in India.