DMHO warns against sex determination violations under PCPNDT Act 1994

Nandyal: District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) Dr Sharada Bai has called for collective societal efforts to protect girl children and ensure equal opportunities for their survival, education, and holistic development.

Markinig International Day of the Girl Child on Sunday, she organized an awareness meeting with medical staff and students of RR Nursing College, followed by an awareness rally in Nandyal.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sharada Bai highlighted the critical role medical personnel play in eradicating gender discrimination and promoting equality. She urged parents to provide girls with quality education, encourage higher studies, and ensure they remain aware of their health, legal rights, and protection laws.

Expressing concern over the declining female population ratio, she emphasized that investing in girls is essential for building confident, self-reliant individuals.

The DMHO sternly warned that fetal sex determination and gender disclosure are illegal under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, stating violators would face strict legal consequences.

She also cautioned against child marriages, explaining that early marriages lead to severe health complications during childbirth and hinder girls’ decision-making capabilities.

As part of the observances, a short film competition titled ‘Let the Girl Child Live’ was conducted for government degree college students across Nandyal district.

District Collector and Magistrate G Rajakumari Gania will present awards to the winning teams at the PGRS building on Monday.

DCHS Dr O Lalitha, Superintendent Dr Chittibabu, and DEMO Mallepalli Pamanna attended the event.

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The Hans India