Impact of Rising Marriage Age on Indian Society

Rising Effective Marriage Age in India: Trends & Implications

The Sample Registration System (SRS) report 2021, released by the Registrar-General of India (RGI), indicates a significant rise in the mean age at effective marriage for females, increasing from 19.3 years in 1990 to 22.5 years in 2021. This change highlights a crucial social and demographic transformation in the country.

Causes of the Shift

• Increased Female Education: Enhanced school and college enrollment for girls, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas, has contributed to the delay in marriage.
• Government Schemes and Legal Awareness: Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and stricter enforcement against child marriage have played a vital role.
• Economic Aspirations: Families and young women are now prioritizing career development and economic opportunities before considering marriage.
• Urbanization and Migration: Exposure to diverse lifestyles and societal norms in urban settings encourages women to postpone marriage.
• Health and Nutrition Awareness: Better understanding of maternal and child health outcomes related to age at marriage has shifted societal attitudes.
• Changing Social Norms: There is a noticeable shift in perceptions regarding gender roles and the timing of marriage, especially in middle-class families.

Consequences of Delayed Marriages

• Fertility Rate Decline: The trend of later marriages correlates with reduced total fertility rates, aligning with India's demographic transition goals.
• Improved Maternal Health: Marrying later decreases the risks associated with early pregnancies, leading to lower maternal mortality and complications.
• Child Development Gains: Older mothers often possess better economic and emotional preparedness, positively impacting child health and nutrition.
• Economic Participation: Women who extend their education and work life before marriage contribute significantly to the economy.
• Empowerment and Autonomy: An increased marriage age enhances women's say in life decisions, boosting their bargaining power within households.

Policy and Societal Implications

• Strengthening Girls’ Education: Continued emphasis on secondary and higher education for girls is essential to sustain this trend.
• Reinforcing Legal Measures: Prioritizing the implementation of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act and proposed amendments to raise the legal marriage age is crucial.
• Skill Development and Job Creation for Women: Expanding skill-building and employment opportunities can help delay marriage voluntarily.
• Supportive Infrastructure: Providing facilities such as hostels and safe transport for girls in rural areas can help keep them in school longer.
• Demographic Dividend Planning: The shift in marriage age can facilitate better demographic management and promote sustainable development.
• Community-Based Interventions: Collaborating with local panchayats, religious leaders, and youth groups can challenge persistent norms favoring early marriage.

Inspiring Quote for Aspiring Civil Servants

“When a girl is educated and empowered, she lifts her family, her community, and the future of the nation.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the current mean age of effective marriage for females in India?
Answer: As of 2021, the mean age at effective marriage for females in India is 22.5 years, reflecting a significant increase from past decades.

Q2. How does education affect marriage age?
Answer: Increased educational opportunities for girls lead to delayed marriages as they prioritize their careers and personal development before settling down.

Q3. What role do government schemes play in delaying marriage?
Answer: Government initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao promote education and awareness, significantly impacting societal attitudes toward child marriage.

Q4. Why is delaying marriage beneficial for maternal health?
Answer: Delaying marriage reduces the risks associated with early pregnancies, leading to better maternal health outcomes and fewer complications.

Q5. How can community interventions help change marriage norms?
Answer: Engaging with local leaders and youth groups can challenge traditional norms and promote the advantages of delaying marriage in communities.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the mean age at effective marriage for females in India as of 2021?
A) 19.3 years
B) 21.0 years
C) 22.5 years
D) 24.0 years
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: Which government scheme focuses on female education and empowerment?
A) Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
B) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
C) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
D) Atal Pension Yojana
Correct Answer: A

Question 3: What effect does increased education have on women's roles in society?
A) It decreases their economic participation
B) It encourages early marriages
C) It enhances empowerment and autonomy
D) It has no significant impact
Correct Answer: C