National Girl Child Day 2026: Amit Shah Says Girls Are India’s Strength and Future

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Amit Shah greeted citizens on National Girl Child Day, calling girls a source of strength.
He highlighted women-led development as a key pillar of India’s progress.
Government schemes and laws continue to support education, welfare and safety of girls.

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday extended greetings on National Girl Child Day 2026, underlining that girls are not a burden but a powerful force shaping India’s future.

He said women today are increasingly leading the country’s development journey, reflecting the growing role of Nari Shakti in nation-building.

National Girl Child Day 2026 Message Highlights Women-Led Development

In a post on X, Shah said the day symbolises the strength and potential of girls across India.

He drew inspiration from iconic women warriors such as Rani Lakshmi Bai, Rani Velu Nachiyar, Mula Gabharu and Pritilata Waddedar, calling them timeless examples of courage and pride.

Shah added that the Modi government’s focus on women-led development has placed women at the forefront of national progress.

Why National Girl Child Day Is Observed in India

National Girl Child Day is observed every year on January 24 to promote awareness about the rights, education and welfare of girls.

The initiative was launched in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development to encourage empowerment and equality for the girl child.

The day also aims to create an environment free from discrimination and gender bias.

Addressing Challenges Like Gender Inequality and Discrimination

A major goal of the observance is to highlight societal issues such as female foeticide, declining sex ratio and unequal opportunities.

It seeks to bring attention to the persistent challenges girls face due to entrenched gender stereotypes.

The campaign encourages communities to value girls as equals and support their growth.

Key Government Schemes for Girl Child Empowerment

Over the years, several flagship programmes have been introduced to uplift girls socially and economically.

Major schemes include:

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
National Scheme of Incentives to Girls for Secondary Education

These initiatives focus on education, financial security and long-term empowerment.

Laws Strengthening Protection for the Girl Child

The government has also reinforced legal measures to safeguard girls from abuse and exploitation.

Key legislations include:

Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006
POCSO Act, 2012 to address child sexual abuse
Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 ensuring care and rehabilitation

These laws aim to protect children’s rights and ensure safer environments.

Child Welfare Support Through Mission Vatsalya

Mission Vatsalya plays a central role in child protection and development services.

It supports initiatives such as the Child Helpline and the Track Child Portal, helping reunite missing children with families.

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Additional programmes like PM CARES for Children assist those orphaned during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing education and healthcare support.

National Girl Child Day Reminder of Equality and Progress

National Girl Child Day 2026 once again serves as a powerful reminder of the need to empower girls through education, safety, healthcare and equal opportunities.

With sustained policies, awareness campaigns and social support, India continues striving toward reducing gender disparities and ensuring every girl can thrive.