Q.4 Recently, the government has proposed a bill to increase the age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years. It has been argued that it will help women improve their nutritional status, lower maternal mortality rate and improve the overall health status of women. However, some critics have stated that the proposed law would be counterproductive to women’s cause and the desired objectives will not be met. In this context, answer the following questions: (a) What effect will an increase in the age of marriage have on women in India? (b) Can legislation be used as an effective tool for social change? (c) Discuss other agents that can be used for social change in this context. (20 Marks)

Mentor’s Comments- Briefly mention the facts of the case. Mention the impact of increasing the age of marriage on the life of women in India. Discuss the efficacy of law as an agent for social change. Highlight other agents that can be used as an agent for social change.