Pune: Beti Bachao Janandolan Completes 14 Years, Enters 15th Year of Social Movement

Hadapsar, 3rd January 2026: The Beti Bachao Janandolan (Save the Girl Child Movement), founded by social activist Dr Ganesh Rakh, completed 14 years on Friday and entered its 15th year, marking a significant milestone in its long-running campaign against gender discrimination and female foeticide.

Launched on January 3, 2012, the movement began as a grassroots initiative to address the declining child sex ratio and social bias against the birth of girls. Over the years, it has expanded into a nationwide and internationally recognised social movement advocating the right to life, dignity, education, and healthcare for the girl child.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ganesh Rakh said the completion of 14 years has strengthened the movement’s resolve. “Beti Bachao Janandolan is not just a movement; it is a moral responsibility and the collective conscience of society. Completing 14 years motivates us to continue this mission with greater commitment and compassion,” he said.

As part of its work, the movement has focused on awareness campaigns against female foeticide, celebration of the birth of girl children, community engagement, and social advocacy. One of its key initiatives includes providing free and ethical maternity services. According to Dr Rakh, more than 2,500 baby girls have been delivered free of cost at Medicare Hospital in Pune over the past 14 years.

The movement has also seen large-scale participation. Dr Rakh said over four lakh doctors, around 13,000 social organisations, and nearly 25 lakh volunteers have joined the initiative in various capacities, contributing to efforts for girl child welfare in their respective fields.

During this period, Beti Bachao Janandolan has organised more than 1,000 rallies and social awareness programmes in India and abroad. These initiatives have been carried out in several African nations, including Zambia, Sudan, Congo, Nigeria, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, as well as in countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Canada, and parts of the Arab world.

With the movement entering its 15th year, Dr Rakh said the focus would remain on ensuring that every girl child is born safe, treated equally, and given opportunities to thrive. He added that the milestone belongs to healthcare workers, volunteers, institutions, media partners, and citizens who have supported the cause over the years.