Peer-reviewed article

Challenges and Prospectus of Government of India: Policy Issues of Child Labour

Muriel Fernandes · 5 May 2023

Abstract

Child labour (CL) is a grave issue in India that has been prevalent for decades.Despite various efforts by the government to eradicate this problem, it still persists in many parts of the country.The Indian government has implemented several policies to address the issue of CL, including the CL (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, the National Child Labour Project, and the Integrated Child Development Services.However, these policies face several challenges in their implementation.One of the main challenges faced by the government is the lack of awareness and education among parents and employers about the harmful effects of CL.Poverty, illiteracy, and lack of job opportunities are some of the primary reasons that drive children to work.The government needs to address these root causes to eliminate CL effectively.Another challenge is the inadequate enforcement of laws and policies.Many employers continue to engage children in various industries, such as agriculture, domestic work, and manufacturing, due to the lack of proper monitoring and accountability mechanisms.Despite these challenges, there are some prospects for the future of India's policy on CL.The government has taken steps to strengthen its efforts, including the formation of a National Commission for the Protection of Child Rights and a National Child Labour Project.Additionally, the government has increased its allocation of funds towards programs aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating child labourers.The issue of CL remains a significant challenge in India, the government has taken several steps toward eradicating this problem.However, effective implementation of policies and awareness -raising campaigns remain crucial to eliminating CL and providing children with the opportunity to receive an education and a better future.