Prof. Ramdas Rupavath, faculty in the Department of Political Science, School of Social Sciences, University of Hyderabad has published an article titled, The Idea of Girl Children: An Experience of Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao, in the Contemporary Voice of Dalit, Sage Journal which is Scoups Indexed.
Prof. Ramdas Rupavath
Abstract of the paper
The adverse impact of socioeconomic and cultural changes on the Lambada (or Banjara) community has led to a decline in their living standards and well-being. The shift in this democratic community from the practice of bride price to dowry, along with the absence of infrastructure and welfare schemes, has resulted in the widespread trading of girl children.
This paper relies on a fieldwork-based study to support arguments for the need to be culturally sensitive in making appropriate provisions to address gender discrimination among Scheduled Tribes, particularly in the Telangana region of the Telugu states. To achieve true equity, interventions must adopt a “bottom-up” approach — fostering community-level engagement, implementing gender-transformative education, promoting gender-inclusive budgets, and encouraging the active participation of women in challenging patriarchal norms and supporting gender equality. The Idea of Girl Children: An Experience of Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao.
Key Findings:
The Lambada community in Telangana is witnessing a disturbing trend where socio-economic and cultural changes have led to the decline of women’s status and the rise of practices like the selling of girl children. Traditionally, Lambada women held respected positions, but patriarchal norms and neoliberal cultures have diminished their autonomy. Girl children are often seen as a financial burden due to dowry pressures, leading to their exploitation. The community’s shift from bride price to dowry has exacerbated this issue, pushing families to sell their daughters. Despite efforts by authorities, parents often refuse to take back rescued children, citing economic hardship.
Pathways to Change
To address these deep-rooted issues, the study advocates for a culturally sensitive, bottom-up approach. This includes gender-transformative education, gender-inclusive budgets, and empowering women to challenge patriarchal norms. Vocational training and job-oriented skills should be integrated into education to uplift the community. Policymakers must focus on maternal health, family planning, and girls’ education while enforcing strict laws against child marriage and gender discrimination. Collaborative efforts between government, civil society, and the private sector are crucial to combat these practices and ensure equity for Lambada women and children.
Link to the article: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2455328X251381913