Gomia: In a landmark achievement for the state, Gomia Block in Bokaro district has become Jharkhand’s first officially declared “child marriage-free” block, following a rigorous year-long campaign led by the district administration. The declaration was formally announced on December 2 during an awareness workshop at the Gomia Block auditorium, marking one year of the Child Marriage Free India initiative.
Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation and Excise & Prohibition, Yogendra Prasad, presided over the event as chief guest, while Deputy Development Commissioner Shatabdi Majumdar attended as special guest. The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by Minister Prasad leading a public pledge to actively oppose and prevent child marriage.
In his address, Minister Prasad appealed to citizens to report any suspected cases to authorities or through Child Helpline 1098, emphasising that community vigilance is essential to protecting children’s rights.
Deputy Development Commissioner Majumdar described the achievement as “a milestone for Jharkhand”, noting that Gomia is now the first block in the state to attain this status. She credited the outcome to coordinated work among government departments, Anganwadi centres, educational institutions, Panchayati Raj bodies and civil society groups. Over recent months, Child Marriage Prevention Committees were activated at every Panchayat, frontline workers were trained to identify and report potential cases, and targeted awareness campaigns were run in schools. As a result, no incidents of child marriage have been recorded in the block for several months, with earlier suspected cases successfully prevented.
District Social Welfare Officer Dr. Suman Gupta highlighted the severe and lifelong impact of child marriage, calling it a grave violation of children’s fundamental rights to education, health and personal development.
During the ceremony, Minister Prasad formally unveiled the “Child Marriage-Free Gomia” declaration. The block received an official manifesto and trophy, while certificates of appreciation were awarded to Panchayat leaders, officials and frontline workers for their contribution to this social transformation.
The Association for Voluntary Action, a development partner of NITI Aayog, was also recognised for its significant role in driving awareness, grassroots mobilisation and community engagement. Representatives from all Panchayats — including Mukhiya, secretaries, Anganwadi workers and supervisors — were present in large numbers, reflecting deep local support for the campaign.
Gomia’s milestone marks a major step forward in Jharkhand’s child protection efforts and sets a pioneering model for other regions seeking to eliminate the practice of child marriage.
