A recent study has revealed that financial hardship continues to be the most significant factor fueling child marriage in India. While the number of such cases has shown a decline in rural areas over the past three years, the findings underscore that economic struggles, social traditions, and concerns over safety remain deeply intertwined with this practice.

Poverty as the Central Cause

The report highlights that families facing severe financial constraints often view early marriage as a way to reduce economic burdens. Marrying off daughters at a younger age is sometimes perceived as a practical solution to limit household expenses or avoid future dowry demands. This economic reasoning continues to dominate decisions despite awareness campaigns and legal frameworks discouraging underage marriages.

Decline Observed in Villages

Encouragingly, the study notes a decrease in reported cases of child marriage across villages in the last three years. This decline suggests that awareness programs, education initiatives, and community interventions may be gradually influencing social attitudes. However, experts caution that while progress is visible, the persistence of underlying drivers means that child marriage remains far from eradicated.

Influence of Cultural Practices

Beyond financial struggles, cultural traditions also play a significant role in perpetuating early marriages. In many communities, longstanding customs continue to shape family decisions regarding when daughters should be married. These cultural expectations often override considerations of education or personal choice, reinforcing cycles where young girls are wed before reaching adulthood.

Perceived Safety and Protection

The report further points out that concerns about safeguarding girls contribute to early marriages. Families sometimes believe marrying their daughters at a younger age provides protection from harassment or social stigma. This perception, though rooted in fear rather than fact, adds another layer to why families choose early marriages despite legal prohibitions and health risks associated with them.

Study Conducted Across Five States

The findings are based on research carried out across five Indian states, offering a broad perspective on regional variations and commonalities in the issue. By examining diverse communities, the study provides insights into how economic pressures intersect with cultural norms and parental concerns across different parts of the country. The report’s conclusions reinforce the need for sustained efforts addressing both poverty alleviation and social awareness. While progress is evident in reducing cases within villages, tackling root causes such as financial insecurity and entrenched traditions remains essential for long-term change. In summary, although rural India has seen a decline in instances of child marriage over recent years, poverty continues to be its most dominant driver. Combined with cultural practices and perceived safety concerns, these factors highlight why comprehensive strategies—spanning education, economic empowerment, and community engagement—are vital to ending this practice once and for all.