Ishtiyaq Kar

Srinagar, May 01 (KNS): Despite concerted efforts to eradicate child labour, the issue persists as a significant concern in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the Labour Department, regular inspections are conducted each month across all districts to identify violations of labour laws and instances of child labour.

However experts and social activists have highlighted that a substantial number of child labour cases originate from unorganized sectors, where children are compelled to work without governmental assistance.
"Children who should be attending school are instead forced into labour due to dire financial circumstances," remarked one activist.

News agency KNS reported that several a majority of child labour occurs in sectors such as handicrafts, automobile workshops, brick kilns, agriculture, and domestic service. Poverty, distress, and illiteracy are cited as primary factors driving this phenomenon.

Shockingly, children as young as 14 are observed working in various capacities, including as vendors, and in other sectors. The long-lasting impact of past turmoil, coupled with economic challenges, has exacerbated the situation, particularly for children born during periods of unrest.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Educationists have underscored the plight of orphans aged between 15 and 25, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support and rehabilitation programs.

However, unlike in other states, Jammu and Kashmir lacks robust NGO support to combat child labour effectively.
While the Labour Department conducts regular inspections to identify and address instances of child labour, challenges remain in detecting children employed as domestic help, as officials cannot enter private residences for enforcement purposes.

In an effort to mitigate the issue, the Ministry of Labour and Employment implements the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme, aimed at rehabilitating child labourers.

Under this scheme, children aged 9-14 are withdrawn from work and enrolled in Special Training Centres, where they receive education, vocational training, meals, and healthcare before reintegrating into formal education systems.

Despite these efforts, the persistence of child labour underscores the need for continued vigilance, comprehensive support mechanisms, and collaborative efforts from government agencies, NGOs, and civil society to ensure the protection and welfare of vulnerable children in Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)