Rajasthan to soon have girl child policy

Jaipur, June 22 (IANS) A girl child policy is in the offing in Rajasthan. The state has initiated the process for formulation and adoption of the policy, the first of its kind, on a special request by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, officials said Friday.

"The policy, in addition to specific emphasis on saving girls, will also address the important issue of child rights," said Sarita Singh, principal secretary, women and child development, Rajasthan.

Making the announcement on the concluding day of a workshop on gender-based discrimination and declining sex ratio here, she said the policy would also have a chapter devoted to the role, contribution and responsibilities of civil society organisations.

Sarita Singh called upon NGOs and child rights groups to submit their suggestions on promoting a positive mindset about girls. She said all tendencies encouraging female foeticide and infanticide must be nipped in the bud.

The two-day workshop was organised jointly by three NGOs - Action Aid, Prayatn and Jago Sakhi Seva Sansthan. Held under the banner of Chaahat Hai Jeeney Ki (we want to live), the workshop provided a common platform to different stakeholders for discussing challenges and struggle of women in the state.

The event also attracted participants from other states who shared their experiences.

Global organisations such as UNICEF and Plan International were also represented in the workshop.

The participants also discussed the issue of gender budgeting.

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