In a powerful step toward ending child marriage and empowering young girls, the Assam government has launched the second phase of its flagship initiative, Nijut Moina 2.0. This upgraded scheme will benefit nearly 4 lakh unmarried girls by providing financial assistance for education, ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per month. It covers students from higher secondary to postgraduate levels. The initiative aims to eliminate child marriage in the state by 2026, aligning with national goals on gender equality and education for all.
Under this scheme, girls pursuing education will not only receive monetary support but will also be tracked through a real-time digital monitoring system to prevent dropout and early marriage. Girls from economically weaker backgrounds stand to benefit the most, as the scheme helps them stay in school and complete higher education without financial burden. Government officials highlighted that retaining girls in classrooms is a proven way to delay marriage, reduce gender-based violence, and boost their future earning potential.
The Nijut Moina initiative has already gained national attention as a model for women-led development. Social workers and education experts have praised the scheme for being both inclusive and strategic, tackling child marriage through direct support and long-term empowerment. The scheme is also expected to increase female participation in the workforce, reduce gender disparity in rural areas, and reshape Assam’s social structure. With its ambitious vision and proactive implementation, Nijut Moina 2.0 is being seen as a landmark policy in the battle against gender inequality in India.