Ranchi, Aug. 22 -- Jharkhand continues to record one of the highest child marriage rates in the country, with 32.2 per cent of girls married before 18 years of age, far above the national average of 23 per cent.
Districts such as Pakur, Dumka and Godda stand out as hotspots, exposing the deep social and economic roots of the practice. While child marriage persists across India, Jharkhand's challenge is sharper.
Experts point to a complex mix of poverty, dowry practices, tribal customs and migration pressures. Many rural households see marriage as an escape from financial burden, while the lack of accessible secondary schools drives dropout rates among the girls.
Compared to states like Bihar, Odisha and West Bengal, Jharkhand consistentl...