Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Nov 24: “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)” was introduced in the year 2014 in 100 select district of country to address the issue of declining child sex ratio (CSR). Unfortunately, Kathua district also figured among these 100 districts having adverse child sex ratio; thereby depicting disparity and persistent bias against the girl child. During census 2011, district recorded measly Child Sex Ratio (CSR) figure against the State and national average.
This was stated in an official handout issued here today.
It said to address this issue of declining child sex ratio (CSR) and related issues of women empowerment over a life cycle continuum, district administration Kathua under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Ramesh Kumar conceptualized an unique initiative ‘PAHAL -ek kadam naari samman ki aur’ as a multi sectoral campaign. Umbrella of initiatives; aimed to stem the declining trend of child sex ratio by means of advocacy efforts and community mobilization, to bring attitudinal change among the citizens regarding womanhood and to ensure equal opportunities for female birth and their survival with dignity; were started under the campaign.
The handout said with the active support of field staff viz. ASHA and Anganwadi workers, this multi sectoral approach resulted into some positive changes in the district reflected in the improved female health indicators and increased CSR. Kathua district has registered new born girl to boy ratio of 873 in FY 2015-16 up from 862 in FY 2014-15 as per HMIS (Health Management Information System). Early registration of pregnant women, increase in girls to boys full immunization ratio and 21% point drop in number of pregnant women with hemoglobin less than 11 are also witnessed in the period (HMIS Data).
District administration conceptualized this initiative taking local factors and resources into consideration and prepared a holistic plan involving all stake holders; Public representatives, Gram panchayats, government institutions and public. Accordingly, systematic sensitization initiative “Pahal: Ek Kadam Naari Samman Ki Aur” was launched to reach out to maximum populace with the sole aim to spread the message of flagship programmes ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ and ‘Laadli Beti’. Pahal is conceptualized with twin focus of attitudinal change towards women issues and simultaneous improvement in institutional delivery mechanism.
Trending Now
E-Paper
Follow our WhatsApp channel