Shocking Statistics! 3 Child Marriages Happen Every Day in Odisha

Odisha is facing a stubborn challenge with child marriages, recording an average of three cases daily over the past six years, despite sustained government efforts.

Official data reveals that between 2019 and February 2025, a staggering 8,159 child marriages occurred across the state, with Nabarangpur district topping the list at 1,347 cases—making it the epicenter of this social issue.

Ganjam follows with 966 cases, while Koraput reports 636, trailed by Mayurbhanj (594), Rayagada (408), Balasore (361), Keonjhar (328), and both Kandhamal and Nayagarh at 308 each. Jharsuguda recorded the fewest instances, with 57 cases. Activists point to deep-rooted tribal traditions, dowry pressures, labor migration, and parental fears of daughters eloping as key drivers.

“Child marriage is entrenched in tribal practices, especially among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups,” said social activist Namrata Chadha. “Parents migrating for work marry off girls early for security, fearing social stigma, while rising dowry costs push families to act sooner.”

Chadha advocates for education and skill development as long-term solutions, arguing that empowering girls economically could shift societal attitudes. The Odisha government has responded with awareness drives at panchayat, block, and Anganwadi levels every three months, alongside designating school heads and local officials as marriage prohibition and information officers.

Biannual state-level committee meetings under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, aim to strengthen enforcement.

Parallel to this, the state battles child labor, rescuing 328 children since 2019, including 45 by February 15 this year. A coordinated State Action Plan with nine departments, legal action against violators, and police training underscore efforts to curb both menaces.

Yet, with over 8,000 child marriages in six years, the road to eradication remains steep.