Child labour in India continues to be a major social challenge, despite numerous legislative actions
and global commitments aimed at its elimination. The International Labour Organization (ILO)
defines child labour as work that robs children of their childhood, education, and dignity, and it
continues to manifest in various forms throughout the country. India has the highest number of
working children in the world, a situation exacerbated by socio-economic conditions, regional
inequalities, and cultural practices. As per the 2011 Census, more than 10.1 million children in India
were involved in labour, although this figure is probably underestimated due to concealed and
informal work circumstances.
The origins of child labour in India are firmly rooted in poverty and lack of education. In rural and
economically disadvantaged areas, families frequently depend on their children’s earnings for
survival. In many agrarian societies, children commence work at a young age, often forgoing their
education in pursuit of economic security.
Moreover, urban migration intensifies the issue as children frequently find themselves in perilous
environments, such as construction sites, sweatshops, or in domestic work. An often-overlooked
aspect is the prevalence of bonded labour in certain regions of India, where children labour to repay
family debts, despite its prohibition by law.
India has enacted several legal measures to tackle child labour. The Child Labour (Prohibition and
Regulation) Act of 1986 forbids the employment of children under the age of 14 in hazardous
sectors. A 2016 amendment broadened this law to ban all employment for children under 14, with
specific exemptions for family-run businesses. Additionally, the Right to Education Act of 2009
guarantees free and compulsory education for kids aged 6 to 14, which is a vital step in breaking the
cycle of poverty and illiteracy. However, enforcement of these laws faces significant obstacles due to
insufficient resources, corruption, and the informal nature of much of child labour.
Social and cultural norms contribute significantly to the continuation of child labour. In many
communities, it is viewed as a rite of passage for children to help support their families
economically. Additionally, gender imbalances worsen the situation, with girls often partaking in
unpaid domestic work to a greater extent than boys. This double burden of labour and household
responsibilities hampers their educational opportunities and personal growth.
Combatting child labour necessitates a comprehensive strategy. Organizations like Bachpan Bachao
Andolan (BBA) play a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating child labourers. Public awareness
initiatives and grassroots movements have also shown success in shifting perceptions and promoting
the reporting of violations. However, it is essential to tackle the underlying causes of child labour —
including poverty, lack of access to quality education, and systemic inequality. Achieving sustainable
progress involves the collaborative efforts of government, civil society, and international
organizations.
