09 December,2025 05:34 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
According to officials, 14 child marriage cases were recorded in Thane district between February and November 2025. Representational pic
Thane District Collector Dr Shrikrishna Panchal inaugurated a public awareness campaign against child marriage on Tuesday, urging citizens to actively participate in efforts to eliminate the social practice, reported news agency PTI.
The district-level awareness programme, held under the Child Marriage Free India Campaign, was organised by the Women and Child Development Department in collaboration with the Maharashtra Social Development Trust (MSVT/SEVA).
Emphasising the need for collective vigilance, Dr Panchal said, "Widespread social awareness is essential to stop child marriages. If any suspicious activity related to child marriage is noticed, citizens should immediately contact 1098. The administration will take all necessary action."
According to officials, 14 child marriage cases were recorded in Thane district between February and November.
The 100-Day Intensive Awareness Campaign for a Child Marriage Free Bharat was launched on December 4 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, marking one year of the 'Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat' campaign, which was launched on November 27, 2024. As per the release, the launch event was attended by the Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, in the august presence of the Minister of State, Savitri Thakur.
According to a press release, the programme featured the National Pledge to End Child Marriage, a specially produced film showcasing inspiring change stories from across the country, and testimonies from frontline champions, celebrating collective progress and strengthening momentum for the next phase of the mission. A live telecast of the event was available on the webcast platform of the Ministry.
The 100-Day Campaign (27 November 2025 - 8 March 2026)
As stated in the release, the campaign followed a structured, three-spell plan designed to energise communities and encourage sustained action:
Spell 1 (27 Nov - 31 Dec 2025): Awareness activities were conducted in schools, colleges, and universities, including debates, essay competitions, interactive sessions, and pledge ceremonies.
Spell 2 (1 - 31 Jan 2026): Engagements were held with faith leaders, community influencers, and marriage service providers to amplify messages on child rights, safety, and empowerment.
Spell 3 (1 Feb - 8 Mar 2026): Gram panchayats and municipal wards were mobilised to pass resolutions declaring their jurisdictions child-marriage-free.
This national drive was implemented in close coordination with the ministries of health and family welfare, panchayati raj, rural development, and education, ensuring seamless collaboration and extensive grassroots reach. Through this 100-day campaign, the Centre called upon citizens, institutions, and community leaders across the nation to join the movement and reaffirm India's commitment to building a Child Marriage Free Bharat.
(With PTI inputs)
