Child Labour in India
Child labour is a grave issue in India, affecting millions of children and depriving them of their
childhood, education, and basic rights. It refers to the employment of children in any form of work
that deprives them of their childhood and is harmful to their physical and mental development.
Causes of Child Labour:
1. Poverty - Families in extreme poverty often rely on their children to earn a livelihood.
2. Lack of education - Illiteracy and lack of awareness about the importance of education contribute
to child labour.
3. Unemployment - Parents without stable jobs are more likely to send their children to work.
4. Cheap labour - Employers exploit children for cheap and easy labour.
Consequences of Child Labour:
- Physical and mental harm
- Denial of education and proper development
- Exploitation and abuse
- Perpetuation of poverty
Legal Framework:
India has implemented several laws to combat child labour, including:
- The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986
- The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009
- Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
Government Initiatives:
- National Child Labour Project (NCLP)
- Mid-day Meal Scheme to encourage school attendance
- Campaigns for spreading awareness about child rights
Conclusion:
Eradicating child labour requires a multi-pronged approach involving government action, strict law
enforcement, public awareness, and community participation. Education, economic support to poor
families, and awareness can play a crucial role in ending this social evil and securing a better future
for India's children.