– Dr. Veerendra Mishra
IPS Officer, Director (Pro-Bono), RACE Lab, Samvedna India
Every year, National Girl Child Day provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made in empowering our young girls and to contemplate the path forward. As we celebrate the limitless potential encapsulated in every girl child, it’s crucial to acknowledge the strides made and the hurdles that still demand our attention. The theme for this year, ‘Empowering Girls Empowers Societies’ encapsulates the essence of our collective responsibility. By investing in their well-being, education, and protection, we lay the foundation for a brighter and more equitable future. The empowerment of girls is not just a matter of gender equality; it is an investment in the very fabric of our societies. National Girl Child Day serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative impact that empowering girls can have on the collective well-being and progress of a nation.
When we empower girls, we unlock a reservoir of untapped potential. Education, a cornerstone of empowerment, becomes a gateway to change. Educated and empowered girls are more likely to contribute meaningfully to the workforce, fostering economic growth. They become advocates for health and well-being, breaking the cycle of poverty and improving the overall quality of life. They become drivers of innovation, progress, and positive change. Beyond the individual, the ripple effects of empowering girls extend to families, communities, and the nation at large. Moreover, the empowerment of girls is a linchpin in building resilient and inclusive societies. When girls are given the tools to thrive, they become agents of change in addressing social issues. They challenge stereotypes, advocate for justice, and contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable world.
In societies where girls are empowered, there is a tangible reduction in gender-based violence and discrimination. By fostering a culture of respect and equality, we create environments where everyone can thrive, irrespective of gender. This, in turn, leads to the formation of more harmonious and progressive societies. By providing equal opportunities, dismantling barriers, and amplifying the voices of girls, we pave the way for a future where every girl can become a powerful force for positive societal transformation. Empowering girls isn’t just a choice; it’s an investment in a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow for us all.
In the grand tapestry of societal progress, the education and protection of girls emerge as pivotal threads that weave a fabric of lasting upliftment. Fostering a protective environment ensures their safety, creating a society where violence against girls is less tolerated. The education and protection of girls pave the way for gender equality. This fosters an environment of inclusivity where everyone can contribute based on their abilities, irrespective of gender. The emphasis on education not only equips them with knowledge but also empowers them to challenge societal norms and shape their destinies.
Yet, challenges persist. Discrimination and gender-based violence continue to mar the lives of many girls. National Girl Child Day serves as a reminder that our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive society must be unwavering. It beckons us to dismantle barriers that hinder their progress, ensuring that every girl has the freedom to aspire, achieve, and contribute to society. Grassroots campaigns, coupled with policy measures, are instrumental in challenging age-old practices that curtail the rights and opportunities of our girl children.
According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the paramount consideration in all actions of public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities, legislative bodies, and state parties should be the best interests of the child. It is imperative that institutions or services responsible for children’s care adhere to prescribed standards. The convention emphasises every child’s inherent right to life, survival, and development and mandates that states ensure free and compulsory primary education while promoting various forms of secondary education. To further the cause of education, the convention advocates for higher education accessibility based on capacity, the availability of educational and vocational information, and guidance for all children. It stresses the encouragement of regular school attendance. Additionally, it requires that the state administer school discipline in a manner consistent with the child’s human dignity.
On this day, let’s renew our pledge to foster an environment where every girl child can flourish. It’s not merely a celebration but a call to action—a reminder that the journey towards gender equality requires persistent efforts from individuals, communities, and policymakers alike. Let’s envision a society where every girl can spread her wings, unrestricted by stereotypes, and soar to her fullest potential. After all, empowering a girl isn’t just about transforming her life; it’s about transforming our society. Let’s reaffirm our commitment to the education and protection of girls. It is not merely a gesture of goodwill; it is an investment in the very foundation of our society. As we empower girls, we build a society that is resilient, just, and poised for sustained upliftment. The destiny of a nation is intricately linked with the well-being of its girls, making their education and protection the most vital undertakings for societal progress.
(The views expressed by the author are personal in nature and do not represent the views of News24)
