India Marks 10 Years of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Initiative

Prime Minister Modi highlights progress in gender equality while opposition raises concerns over implementation and transparency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, emphasizing its role in addressing gender biases and improving opportunities for girls.
The initiative has led to measurable improvements, including an increase in the sex ratio at birth from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24 and higher female enrollment in secondary education.
Critics, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, questioned the scheme's effectiveness, citing high rates of crimes against women and alleged misuse of funds for advertisements.
Union Minister Annapurna Devi defended the program, highlighting increased institutional deliveries, reduced maternal and infant mortality rates, and a shift in societal attitudes toward gender equality.
The government plans to build on the program's progress by focusing on long-term changes through inclusive policies and grassroots community involvement.