Impact of Child Marriage on Girls' Education and Empowerment: A Socio-Legal Analysis of India's Progress

Abstract

Child marriage remains a critical socio-legal challenge in India, significantly impacting girls' educational attainment and overall empowerment. This empirical study examines the intricate relationship between child marriage prevalence and educational outcomes among adolescent girls in India, analyzing data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4 and NFHS-5) alongside legislative interventions implemented since the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. Through comprehensive statistical analysis of regional variations, socio-economic determinants, and educational indicators across 28 states and 8 union territories, this research reveals that child marriage rates declined from 26.8% (NFHS-4) to 23.3% (NFHS-5), yet significant interstate disparities persist. The study employs mixed-methods analysis incorporating chi-square tests, correlation coefficients, and regression models to establish causal relationships between early marriage and school dropout rates, literacy levels, and empowerment indices. Findings indicate that states with robust implementation of educational interventions and community-based programs demonstrate 40-60% reduction in child marriage prevalence. The research critically examines the effectiveness of legal frameworks, particularly Article 15, 21, and 21A of the Indian Constitution, and their translation into ground-level impact. Results suggest that while legislative measures provide necessary foundation, socio-economic empowerment through education, vocational training, and community mobilization yields more sustainable outcomes in preventing child marriages and promoting girls' agency.