The Indian Girl Child is the most vulnerable in the world, according to a report by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Data was gathered from 150 countries and India and China have the worst record in infant female mortality.

In India, for every 100 girls dying between one and five years old, there are 56 male child deaths. This is in contrast to the global average of 111 male child deaths for every 100 females.

The report says: “Higher mortality among girls is a powerful warning that differential treatment or access to resources is putting girls at a disadvantage.” The report also shows that the infant mortality disadvantage in India continues for girls into childhood.

The Hope Foundation projects are actively promoting access to education particularly for girl children. Education is the proven means of enabling young girls and women to gain equality.

Our theme for 2012 is ‘Save the Girl Child’ and during 2012 we will be highlighting the suffering and injustices suffered by girl children and young women in Kolkata. More girls than boys are abandoned on the streets and in the slums and need our help. You can make a difference by letting others know this awful reality.

Photo: David Lavery