(PC:The logical indian.com)
In a powerful stride toward gender equality, Dr. Ganesh Rakh, a visionary doctor from Pune’s Hadapsar-based Maternity Multispecialty Hospital, has spearheaded a transformative movement under the “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” campaign. Since 2012, his hospital has delivered over 2,400 baby girls free of cost, waiving all medical expenses for families welcoming daughters. This initiative, part of the broader Mulgi Vachva Abhiyan (Save the Girl Child Campaign), not only supports families but also raises awareness against female feticide. By celebrating the birth of girls, Dr. Rakh is challenging deep-rooted societal biases, fostering universal human values like equality, respect, and compassion, and creating a ripple effect of change in India and beyond.
A Doctor Turned Change-Maker
Dr. Rakh’s journey from a medical professional to a social reformer began in 2012, sparked by the alarming 2011 Census data revealing a skewed sex ratio of 914 girls per 1,000 boys. Witnessing the stark contrast in societal reactions—celebrations for boys and tears or shame for girls—compelled him to act. “We started waiving delivery fees for girls to encourage families to value daughters,” Dr. Rakh explains. His initiative has significantly reduced female feticide in surrounding areas, proving that positive action rooted in values like justice can shift mindsets. His hospital has become a beacon of hope, promoting the idea that every girl deserves to be celebrated.
Global Impact of a Local Vision
Dr. Rakh’s campaign transcends borders, inspiring global change. Over 13,000 organizations and 2.5 million volunteers worldwide, including in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, China, Canada, and African nations, have joined his mission. By addressing patriarchal norms, the campaign has sparked conversations on gender equality in regions where such biases are deeply entrenched. Dr. Rakh’s efforts align with universal values of fairness and dignity, encouraging communities to embrace daughters as equals. His work not only saves lives but also empowers families to educate and nurture girls, aligning with the “Beti Padhao” ethos of educating daughters.
A Legacy of Equality and Hope
Dr. Ganesh Rakh’s Beti Bachao campaign is a testament to the power of compassion and action in transforming society. By offering free deliveries and raising awareness, he has challenged female feticide head-on, fostering a culture that values girls. His global influence underscores the universal relevance of his mission, proving that one person’s vision can ignite change across continents. As Dr. Rakh continues to advocate for gender equality, his legacy inspires millions to uphold the values of love, respect, and equality, ensuring a brighter future for girls everywhere.