Balod district in Chhattisgarh has been recognized as the first ‘child marriage-free’ district in India, marking a significant achievement in the national campaign to eliminate child marriage. The district’s success is notable as no child marriage cases have been recorded in the last two years. This milestone was achieved after thorough verification of documents and completion of legal processes. The district’s success is attributed to the combined efforts of the administration, elected representatives, Anganwadi workers, and the local community. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the district administration and emphasized the state government’s commitment to making the entire state child marriage-free by 2028-29. Certificates have been distributed to all 436 gram panchayats and 9 urban bodies in Balod, solidifying its status as a role model for the nation.
