How to Prevent Child Labour in India?

04/02/25

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Childhood is the most precious time of our lives when we do not have to worry about any responsibilities, societal expectations do not bog us down, and we can live our days to the fullest. This time should be spent playing with our friends, learning new and fascinating things, and exploring the world around us through our innocent eyes. Sadly, certain children do not get to enjoy the luxuries that childhood grants. These children have to work from an early age to make a living and support their families.

The Constitution of India prohibits children from working at an early age and has child labour solutions in place to ensure nobody employs children in hazardous situations. There are also NGOs like ours that work alongside the government to ensure no child has to resort to working at an early age to survive. We at Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children India) have made continuous efforts over the years to prevent child labour in India and ensure children have access to education, healthcare, nutrition, protection, and a safe environment.

Let’s take a look at some of these child labour solutions being implemented in India:

Ways to Prevent Child Labour in India

There are certain efforts that can help a child out of working conditions and ensure they enjoy their childhood how a child should — playing, learning, and enjoying every moment of life.

1. Educate Children

Education is a superpower that can change lives. When children have access to educational opportunities, they can shape their future however they want. Education helps with their cognitive, physical, societal, and emotional development and equips them with the tools to create a better future for themselves. By choosing to donate for child education, you can help provide these opportunities to underprivileged children. They also can enjoy the company of fellow students and get the nutrition, healthcare, and play they need to grow up to be happier individuals.

2. Create Awareness of Laws and Policies

There are various laws and policies in place that prohibit children from working at a young age and ensure they have access to a protected environment. However, most people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, are not aware of the existence of these laws and end up becoming the victims of child labour. We at Bal Raksha Bharat travel to different areas and ensure people are aware of these laws and know they can always turn to the government and NGOs like ours for support. We set up awareness and sensitisation camps that ensure children know they can turn to education instead of working at an early age.

Also Read: Understanding the Importance of Child Rights in India

3. Skill Development of Parents

One of the most effective ways to protect children from working conditions is to train their parents to make a living. The major problem that most disadvantaged families face is that the adults of the family do not have an avenue to earn a living due to a lack of education and proper training. However, the Government of India and we at Bal Raksha Bharat work with these disadvantaged families and teach the parents to make a living through skills like sewing, pottery, stitching, and more. When parents have a way to provide for their family, it allows the children to go to schools and avoid the trap of child labour.

4. Rehabilitation & Social Protection

It is important for children to have a safe space to turn while they are getting out of the working conditions and turning towards education. In such scenarios, we at Bal Raksha Bharat provide children with access to education, healthcare, nutritious meals, safe drinking water, shelter, and a protective environment. We work alongside the government to ensure children go back into society as healed individuals who have a brighter future and boundless possibilities in front of them.

How You Can Contribute

The fight against child labour in India requires the attention of each and every member of society. You can contribute to our efforts in various ways and ensure children are provided with the chance to live a happy childhood.

We urge you to report any case of child labour to the Childline helpline at 1098. This 24-hour emergency service provides care and protection to children in need. You can also donate online to our programmes to ensure we can continue helping children and provide them with better opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can we prevent child labour in India?

We can prevent child labour through efforts like educating children, creating awareness of laws & policies, helping parents develop skills, and rehabilitating children.

2. What child labour solutions are being implemented in India?

India has different laws and solutions in place, like:

• National Child Labour Project (NCLP)

• Child Labour (Prohibition of Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016

• General development programmes

• Self Help Groups (SHGs)

• Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA)

3. What is article 24?

Under the Constitution of India, Article 24 prohibits children below the age of 14 from working in factories, mines, and other hazardous situations.

4. Does Bal Raksha Bharat work to prevent child labour?

Bal Raksha Bharat works to prevent child labour through programmes like ‘‘Work: No Child’s Business’ and more.

BRB Admin