A recent report by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has highlighted a concerning issue in Odisha, where over 11,000 children are vulnerable to child marriages. The findings are based on data from the 2023-24 academic session, which revealed high rates of school absenteeism and dropouts.The NCPCR’s comprehensive survey covered 26,415 schools across all 30 districts of Odisha. The report identified 11,053 children who had either been absent from school for 30 consecutive days without notice or had dropped out entirely. This alarming trend is seen as a significant indicator of the risk of child marriages.The survey, conducted in collaboration with state governments, aimed to establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent child marriages across India. In Odisha, the survey mapped schools in 19,683 villages and blocks, involving over 66,000 people. The data revealed that child marriage remains a pressing issue, with many children being forced into early marriages due to socio-economic pressures.The NCPCR has urged the Odisha state government to implement strict measures to address this issue. Recommendations include maintaining records of runaway children, identifying at-risk families, issuing rehabilitation cards to rescued children, and ensuring the continuity of education for affected children.Nationwide, the survey found that over 11 lakh students were either absent for a month or had dropped out, with child marriage being a significant contributing factor. Other states with high numbers of vulnerable children include Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.The NCPCR’s report underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat child marriage and protect the rights and futures of children in Odisha and across India.
