States asked to act to save girl child

New Delhi, Jan 2 (IANS) Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi Friday urged state governments to take "urgent action" to save girl child.

During a video conferencing with officials for state-wise consultation process on 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' scheme, she directed them to take urgent action and submit a district action plan to her.

According to an official statement, the minister emphasised on a comprehensive strategy to focus on strict implementation and monitoring of Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act.

The minister also laid emphasis on the key actionable points mainly focusing on ensuring early registration of pregnancies, institutional deliveries, registration of birth, training and sensitisation of front line workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the scheme Jan 22 in Haryana's Panipat, statement added.

A workshop-cum-Seminar will also be held for brainstorming on several important issues related to women and child development Jan 20-21 in Panipat.