The Maharashtra government is exploring a new measure to prevent child marriages by making it compulsory to print the birth dates of both the bride and groom on wedding invitation cards.
Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare informed the state assembly that a similar practice in Rajasthan has helped curb child marriages. The government is studying the model and discussing its possible implementation with relevant departments.
Under the proposed framework, printing presses, marriage halls and event organizers may also be held accountable for ensuring compliance. Legal action could be taken against those found violating the rules.
According to government data presented in the assembly, the state's child marriage rate has declined from 21.9 percent in 2019-21 to 19.6 percent in 2023-24. However, several districts continue to report high numbers. Parbhani recorded a rate of 48 percent, followed by Beed at 43.7 percent, Dhule at 40.5 percent and Solapur at 40.3 percent.
Tatkare said that 1,434 child marriages have been prevented and 136 FIRs registered so far in 2025-26. The government aims to bring the child marriage rate below 10 percent over the next five years.
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