The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
ANGUL, JANUARY 9, 2025
In a move to combat the pervasive issue of child marriage, the Jindal Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility wing of Jindal Steel and Power (JSP), has launched an extensive awareness campaign in Angul district. This initiative aims to enlighten communities on the detrimental impacts of child marriage and galvanize efforts to eradicate this illegal practice.
The campaign was inaugurated by the Angul District Collector, Abdaal Akhtar, with the launch of an awareness tableau. The event saw participation from key dignitaries including Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Pratap Pritimaya, District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Nirupama Pani, and District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Gouri Shankar Behera, along with Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) staff and members of the Jindal Foundation.
The awareness tableau is set to traverse the district’s villages and towns, disseminating critical messages through engaging audio content. Central to the campaign is the promotion of understanding about the severe consequences of child marriage on health, education, and overall development, particularly for young girls. It also highlights the stringent legal measures in place to prevent such practices.
By spotlighting the advantages of marrying at an appropriate age — such as improved health, better education, and enhanced future prospects for girls — the campaign seeks to foster a societal shift towards more equitable practices. Child marriage, a violation of children’s rights, truncates childhood and deprives children of essential opportunities, with ripple effects on families and communities.
Besides, the Jindal Foundation has reinforced its commitment to supporting underprivileged girls through its “Yashasvi” program, which provides avenues for higher education. This dual approach of advocacy and support underlines JSP’s dedication to fostering a more informed, educated, and equitable society.
