. 09/10/2024 11:40 AM
In a strong move to tackle the problem of child marriage in Assam, the state government has launched the ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme. This important initiative, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is designed to encourage girls to continue their education and delay marriage until they complete their studies.
The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme offers monthly financial support, or stipends, to girl students. It is available for girls from Class 11 all the way to postgraduate levels. Here’s how much support they will receive:
Rs 1,000 for girls in Classes 11 and 12.
Rs 1,250 for girls pursuing undergraduate degrees.
Rs 2,500 for girls in postgraduate courses.
To benefit from this scheme, students must meet two key conditions:
Regular Attendance and Good Performance: Students need to attend school or college regularly and perform well in their studies.
Postpone Marriage: Students must promise not to marry until they have completed their postgraduate education.
It’s also important to note that daughters of government officials are not eligible for this scheme.
Child marriage has been a serious problem in Assam, and the government is committed to ending this practice by 2026. The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme aims to:
Encourage Education: By offering financial support, the scheme encourages more girls to stay in school and continue their education instead of getting married at a young age.
Reduce Financial Stress: Many families face financial difficulties when trying to support their daughters’ education. This scheme helps reduce that burden.
The Assam government expects the ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme to benefit around 10 lakh (1 million) girls, with a total investment of Rs 1,500 crore. The expected benefits include:
More girls pursuing higher education.
Less financial pressure on families.
A reduction in child marriage as more girls focus on their studies.
Earlier efforts by the Assam government have already shown positive results. Between 2021-22 and 2023-24, child marriage cases in 20 districts dropped by 81%. The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme is expected to build on this success and lead to long-term social change.
The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme is a powerful initiative that reflects Assam’s commitment to improving the lives of girls in the state. By supporting their education and helping them delay marriage, this scheme is paving the way for a brighter and more empowered future for girls in Assam.
