Selfie With Daughter Day Turns 10: How A Simple Initiative Turned Into A Global Phenomenon

How ‘Selfie With Daughter’ Campaign Started

In 2015, Sunil Jaglan, then the sarpanch (village head) of Bibipur in Haryana's Jind district, launched the 'Selfie With Daughter' campaign. The initiative encouraged fathers to take selfies with their daughters and share them on social media, aiming to challenge societal norms that devalue female children. Sunil Jaglan’s goal was to promote the importance of daughters and raise awareness about gender equality.

‘Selfie With Daughter Day’ Campaign: From Village To Global Movement

What began as a local effort quickly gained national attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the campaign during his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address, describing it as a "silent revolution" and a movement that had gone global. This endorsement propelled the initiative into the spotlight, inspiring participation from various communities and leaders across India.

The campaign's reach extended beyond India, spreading to over 70 countries. As stated in its official portal, “The movement resonated so strongly that Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised it in his Mann Ki Baat radio address in July 2015, calling it a “brilliant social media initiative.” Heapplauded the young Sarpanch from Haryana for turning a government campaign—Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao—into a people’s movement.”

Former President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi both gave praise to the Bibipur initiative. They encouraged parents across the country to get involved. In June 2015, Modi talked about the campaign during his Mann Ki Baat radio address. He highlighted how proud the people of Haryana were to showcase their daughters, especially given the state’s long-standing problem with a skewed sex ratio. Modi said that this event in Haryana was a true example of the aims behind the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao programme - to save and educate girls.

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‘Selfie With Daughter’ Campaign: A Global Phenomenon

Over the years, 'Selfie With Daughter' Day has evolved to address various aspects of gender equality. In 2023, the focus shifted to supporting handicapped girls, and in 2024, the campaign highlighted the importance of first-time female voters. These themes reflect the campaign's adaptability and commitment to addressing contemporary issues related to women's rights and empowerment.

The 'Selfie With Daughter' campaign is an important part of India’s broader efforts to improve the rights and well-being of girls. It is connected to the national policy - Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao programme. This initiative aims to increase awareness among the public and politicians about the importance of protecting and supporting girls. India’s 2020 Voluntary National Review on progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) mentioned the problem of missing women in the country. It also reaffirmed the goal of the BBBP “to reverse this trend, by awareness generation, mainly through country-wide campaigns,” highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to change attitudes and improve the situation for girls across India.

As stated in its official portal, “SELFIE WITH DAUGHTER, got national and international recognition when it was mentioned by our Hon'ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, in the Radio Show, Mann Ki Baat, which is a monthly show addressed by the PM himself.”

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Impact of ‘Selfie With Daughter’ Campaign

The campaign's impact has been significant. It has raised awareness about the importance of daughters and also contributed to changing perceptions about gender in society. According to a report published by the Indian government, the campaign was effective due to its use of failure bias, informing the public about prevailing social norms and illustrating how thousands of others were adhering to these norms.

In 2023, Sunil Jaglan joined Prime Minister Modi during the 100th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat,' where the Prime Minister praised the campaign for fostering pride among mothers and daughters.

As the 'Selfie With Daughter' campaign strives to give its impact successfully, it continues to inspire individuals and communities worldwide. The initiative serves as a reminder of the power of simple actions in challenging societal norms and promoting gender equality. With each selfie shared, the message grows stronger: daughters are to be celebrated, cherished, and empowered.

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