In India, nearly 1.5 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year. According to the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Karnataka alone accounts for 23% of the country’s child marriages. The prevalence of child marriage in the state is driven by factors such as poverty, entrenched traditions, limited awareness, and fears of sexual violence in economically and socially disadvantaged communities. Early marriage severely impacts the health and well-being of these young girls, often resulting in the cessation of their education and exposing them to potential abuse. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach to improve awareness, enhance education, and create supportive environments that protect and empower young girls.
HOW ARE WE ADDRESSING IT?
STdH, in collaboration with TdH-NL, has embarked on a significant project aimed at addressing the challenges faced by married adolescent girls in districts where child marriage is most prevalent. This initiative is notable for its focus on a highly vulnerable and often overlooked population—those affected by child marriage. By targeting areas with high rates of early marriage, the project seeks to provide much-needed support and resources to these young girls, addressing their unique needs and advocating for their rights. It stands out as one of the few efforts in the country dedicated to improving the lives of this marginalized group and working towards a more equitable future for them.
In 2020, STdH supported 15 early-married girls from the Belagavi district in Karnataka by providing each of them with Rs. 15,000 to invest in livelihood activities. This financial assistance was aimed at empowering these young women by helping them establish or enhance small-scale income-generating ventures. By offering this support, STdH sought to provide these individuals with opportunities for economic independence and stability, thereby improving their overall quality of life and enabling them to build a more secure future.
