Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Child labour, defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as work that deprives a child of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, remains a significant socio-economic problem in India. Despite legislative prohibitions, millions of children are engaged in various forms of labour, hindering their access to education and perpetuating cycles of poverty. Recent reports indicate a resurgence in child labour due to the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, making it a pressing concern for policymakers and civil society organizations. This note will explore the multifaceted dimensions of child labour in India.
Understanding the Prevalence and Forms of Child Labour
Child labour in India is deeply rooted in poverty, lack of access to quality education, and socio-cultural norms. According to the Census of India 2011, there were over 12.66 million child labourers aged 5-14 years. However, this figure is widely believed to be an underestimate due to underreporting and the informal nature of much of the work. The forms of child labour are diverse, ranging from:
- Domestic work: Often involving long hours and exploitative conditions.
- Agricultural labour: Common in rural areas, exposing children to hazardous pesticides and strenuous work.
- Factory work: Including industries like brick kilns, carpet weaving, and garment manufacturing.
- Street vending and rag picking: Exposing children to health risks and vulnerability.
Legal and Policy Framework
India has a comprehensive legal framework to combat child labour:
| Legislation | Year | Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|
| Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act | 1986 (amended in 2016) | Prohibits employment of children below 14 years in certain occupations and regulates the working conditions of adolescents. |
| Right to Education Act (RTE) | 2009 | Mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years, aiming to reduce the demand for child labour. |
| Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act | 2015 | Provides for the care, protection, and rehabilitation of children in need, including those involved in labour. |
The government has also launched several schemes like the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme to rehabilitate child labourers and provide them with education.
Challenges in Enforcement and Implementation
Despite the legal framework, effective enforcement remains a significant challenge. Key issues include:
- Weak enforcement mechanisms: Limited number of labour inspectors and inadequate monitoring.
- Social and economic factors: Poverty and lack of access to education continue to drive families to send their children to work.
- Informal sector dominance: A large proportion of child labour occurs in the informal sector, making it difficult to regulate.
- Lack of awareness: Limited awareness among parents and communities about the harmful effects of child labour and the legal provisions.
Recent Initiatives and Way Forward
The government has been taking steps to address these challenges, including:
- Online Tracking System: Launch of PENCIL (Platform for Effective Enforcement of No Child Labour) portal in 2021 for real-time monitoring and effective enforcement.
- Convergence with other schemes: Integrating NCLP with other schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to provide alternative livelihood options for families.
- Raising awareness: Conducting awareness campaigns to educate communities about the harmful effects of child labour.
Moving forward, a multi-pronged approach is needed, focusing on strengthening enforcement, addressing the root causes of poverty, improving access to quality education, and raising awareness among all stakeholders.
Conclusion
Child labour remains a complex and persistent challenge in India, demanding sustained and concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and communities. While legislative frameworks and schemes are in place, effective implementation and enforcement are crucial. Addressing the underlying socio-economic factors, particularly poverty and lack of access to education, is paramount to breaking the cycle of child labour and ensuring a brighter future for all children. A holistic approach that prioritizes education, protection, and rehabilitation is essential for achieving a child labour-free India.
Answer Length
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