Advantages of raising the legal age of marriage from 18 to 21

The government has raised the legal age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years. With this decision, the government has brought the age of marriage for both men and women at par. The law prescribes a minimum age of marriage to essentially outlaw child marriages and prevent the abuse of minors.The Narendra Modi government decided to re-examine the age of marriage for women for a number of reasons, including gender-neutrality. An early age of marriage, and consequent early pregnancies, also have impacts on nutritional levels of mothers and their children, and their overall health and mental wellbeing. It also has an impact on Infant Mortality Rate and marriage Maternal Mortality Rate, and the empowerment of women who are cut off from access to education and livelihood after an early marriage.

This law has helped girls in many aspects. At present, many girls are forced to drop out of studies for marriage. So, making the minimum legal age for marriage as 21 will allow them to continue their studies. Thereby, many more women will go for higher education.

Teenage pregnancies increase the risk of high blood pressure, anaemia and several other health problems. It can also lead to the death of the mother due to pregnancy complications. So, raising the age of marriage for girls can reduce the chance of maternal mortality.Early marriages result in several mental health issues in many girls. So, this move can eliminate this problem.

This move can be stated as a step towards gender neutrality because it will make the minimum legal age for marriage the same for both girls and boys.

As several girls are being married at 18 years, they are not having financial independence. This is resulting in the dependence of their husbands for survival. The dependence will force them to stay in the relationship even if it is abusive. So, raising the minimum legal age for marriage can empower women and can help them in achieving financial independence before marriage.

Raising the minimum legal age for marriage for girls is a good move. But a mere law cannot bring change in society. Widespread awareness programs on the importance of girls’ education, raising the legal age for marriage should be conducted. The government should increase its spending on education and healthcare. Moreover, the girls’ right to the life of their choice after becoming a legal adult at 18 years should be protected.