While it is appreciable that preventive action such as greater awareness and vigilance is slowing down the prevalence of child marriages, it is unfortunate that the authorities are still reluctant to get to the root of the problem — unending poverty and hunger (‘Ground Zero’ page — “Reluctant mothers”, Feb.11). Framing laws without action and proper implementation and counselling will not fetch any results. Such families and regions must be identified and provided enough opportunities to earn adequately to fulfil their basic needs such as food, water, shelter and the right to a safe and healthy environment. Rejuvenation of agriculture using scientific methods, implementing water harvesting, sowing of crops which require less water, support to cottage industries and having self-help groups will help such communities and also check migration. There need for multiple and consistent efforts to tackle the situation. In this, NGOs can play a major role.
Nisha Yadav,
Dahina, Rewari, Haryana
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