Despite numerous government initiatives and awareness campaigns, Odisha continues to grapple with the menace of child marriage, reporting an alarming average of three such cases daily over the past six years. According to official data, the state recorded 8,159 child marriages from 2019 to February 2025, with Nabarangpur district emerging as the worst affected.

Of the total cases, Nabarangpur alone accounted for 1,347 instances, the highest among Odisha’s 30 districts. Experts attribute this persistent issue to deep-rooted tribal customs, the prevalence of dowry, economic hardships leading to labour migration, and societal fears of young girls eloping.

Child rights activists express concern over the figures, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement of laws, enhanced educational opportunities, and community engagement to curb the practice. “Despite legal provisions like the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and schemes promoting girl child education, the numbers remain worrying. A collective effort involving government bodies, NGOs, and local communities is essential to bring about change,” said a child welfare expert.

The state government has undertaken several measures, including awareness drives, school enrolment programs, and financial aid for girls’ education, to prevent child marriages. However, activists stress that deep-seated socio-economic factors continue to fuel the practice, requiring more targeted interventions.

With Odisha striving to eliminate child marriage, stakeholders call for stricter vigilance, improved education, and economic upliftment of vulnerable communities to ensure a future where every child has the right to a safe and empowered childhood.