Child Marriage Persists in Maharashtra's Marathwada Region Amidst Societal Pres…
Child marriage remains a significant issue in Maharashtra's Marathwada region, with 43.7% of women aged 20-24 married before 18, according to the National Family Health Survey. Families cite safety concerns and economic insecurity as reasons for early marriages. Activists highlight systemic issues, including political influence and societal pressures, that perpetuate this cycle. In 2025, 266 minor girls went missing in Beed, with many cases linked to online relationships. Despite government efforts to reduce child marriages by 10% by 2026, the challenge persists. Local leaders advocate for community accountability in addressing this issue, emphasizing education as a key solution for breaking the cycle of child marriage.
Published 1 day ago • 05 Oct 2026, 02:23 PM IST