The dedicated efforts of Punjab towards women's empowerment and gender equality have been acknowledged at the national level. Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, has appreciated Punjab's initiatives under the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' scheme.
This was expressed by the Minister of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur. Providing further details, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the national gender ratio at birth has improved from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24.
She highlighted that the birth ratio of girls in Punjab has increased from 75.51% to 78%, which has been achieved due to the efforts of the state government. Additionally, institutional deliveries have risen from 61% to 97.3%.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government is making every possible effort to balance the gender ratio and promote the birth of girls through special initiatives.
The Minister further informed that the Union Minister has specifically praised the unique initiative of district Faridkot, where the 'Dhi Anmulli Daat' campaign has challenged patriarchal norms by organizing the traditional "Shreenh Rasam" for girls.
Traditionally reserved for boys, this initiative celebrates the birth of girls by tying neem or shreenh tree leaves at the main entrance of homes and preserving the baby’s footprints as cherished memories.
She added that to mark the birth of newborn girls, celebrations such as distributing sweets, performing Giddha (a traditional dance), and singing songs were organized in villages. Baby blankets and grooming kits were provided to the girls, while the laminated imprints of their daughters' footprints were given to the parents.
Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the national recognition of Punjab's efforts is a testament to the government's commitment to empowering girls and transforming societal perceptions. The Punjab Government is dedicated to ensuring that every girl in the state is valued and provided with equal opportunities to grow and prosper.
The Minister further mentioned that Punjab has undertaken significant steps for the welfare of women and children. Initiatives such as free driving classes for 120 girls in Hoshiarpur aim to enhance their self-confidence and self-reliance.
These efforts are breaking gender stereotypes and promoting economic independence among women. She urged society to actively participate in such initiatives to achieve gender balance.
The Social Security Minister reiterated that under the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' scheme, the state government is making continuous efforts to change societal attitudes and behavior towards girls, with the goal of eliminating discrimination against them.