Assam CM Launches Nijut Moina Scheme to Combat Child Marriage

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has introduced the Nijut Moina Scheme, targeting the end of child marriage. The Rs 1,500 crore initiative aims to support 10 lakh girls with financial grants for continuing their education to higher stages, thus reducing the prevalence of child marriages.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday unveiled the state's most extensive policy to combat child marriage - the Nijut Moina Scheme. The launch event was held at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati. This initiative aims to support 10 lakh girls with financial grants, incentivizing their further education.

"Today we have launched the Rs 1500 crore Nijut Moina Asoni - a Brahmastra to end child marriage," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on X. Under this scheme, female students completing higher education will receive Rs 10,000 per annum, those completing graduation will get Rs 12,500 per annum, and those completing post-graduation will be awarded Rs 25,000 per annum.

Chief Minister Sarma pointed out that child marriage cases are more rampant in Lower Assam and Middle Assam districts, with Dhubri and South Salmara seeing 50% of girls married off before turning 18. He emphasized the importance of education as the main deterrent, stating that married girls studying in colleges will not benefit from this scheme. Sarma aims to roll out this initiative by October 10, but if missed, it will start by November 10. An additional phase of operations against child marriage by Assam police is planned for November-December, with the goal to eradicate the practice by 2026.

The Nijut Moina Scheme specifically targets female students in Government and government-aided institutions, acting as a robust deterrent against child marriage. The Rs 1,500 crore initiative will bolster the lives of 10 lakh girls through these multiple financial incentives.

(With inputs from agencies.)