Child Labour & Human Rights: An Indian Perspective On Legal Frameworks And Challenges

ABSTRACT

In India, child labour is still a problem, even with the number of national and international legal frameworks that have been established to try and end it. This study critically evaluates “the International Labour Organization standards and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child”, international human rights agreements, to see how well India's child labour regulations fit. It looks at institutional issues like corruption and lax enforcement of the law that impede the efficient application of current legislation, as well as socioeconomic variables like poverty and illiteracy that support child labour. In addition to highlighting the challenges associated with regulating these sectors, the report also emphasizes the major role played by the informal economy, which is the primary source of child labour. The main tackle for preventing child labour that is recommended centres on bolstering social safety programs, expanding access to high-quality education, and fortifying law enforcement. The conversation revolves around a human rights perspective, which calls for an all encompassing, multi-sectoral response that tackles the immediate as well as underlying causes of child labour. The paper's conclusion urges further efforts to protect India's children's rights and dignity by bringing national policies into compliance with international human rights commitments.

Keywords: Child Labour, Human Rights, Legal Frameworks, Socio-Economic Factors, Enforcement Mechanisms.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

1. INTRODUCTION

In India, while there are robust legislative structures protecting children from labour, child labour is nevertheless a major social and legal concern, with millions of youngsters working. “Child labour is defined as employment that robs children of their youth, education, and general well-being. It is an egregious violation of their human rights.” India is a signatory to important agreements, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)[1] and the International Labour Organization (ILO)

agreements Nos. 138[2] and 182[3]. Both have worked to end this practice through international and state mechanisms. However, because of ingrained socioeconomic issues, including poverty, illiteracy, and the cultural acceptability of child labour in a variety of industries, especially the unorganized sector, the gap between law and practice is growing. [4] Child labour is still a problem because of major obstacles to law enforcement, such as a lack of funding, a lack of political will, and pervasive corruption. [5] In addition, as families struggle financially, the COVID-19 epidemic has increased vulnerabilities and forced more children into child labour. [6]

The present study examines the legislative frameworks in India intended to safeguard minors against forced labour, evaluate their compliance with global human rights commitments, and investigate the obstacles that impede their efficient execution. The study takes a human rights approach and makes policy suggestions to strengthen social support, increase enforcement, and provide children with better access to school. To effectively eradicate child labour and protect the rights of its most vulnerable citizens, India must fortify these sectors.

2. UNDERSTANDING CHILD LABOUR IN INDIA

2.1 DEFINITION AND SCOPE

“According to the International Labour Organization (ILO),” Child labour is defined as any work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity and is detrimental to their physical and mental development. It also includes any work performed by a child under the minimum age required by national legislation and international standards, particularly when the employment threatens the child's health, safety, or morals. [7] The ILO defines several specific categories of child labour, some of which are especially concerning because they involve the exploitation of children.

“The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016” is one of the national laws in India that addresses child labour. This Act defines a child as any person who has not completed the age of 14 and prohibits their employment in certain hazardous occupations. [8] “A further attempt to lessen the adverse effects of labour on minors is reflected in the legislation, which governs the working conditions of adolescents (aged 14 to 18) in non

hazardous jobs.”

There are several types of child labour, which include:

1. Hazardous Child Labour: This category includes jobs where children's health, safety, and morality are seriously affected. It covers jobs in industries including mining, manufacturing, and construction, where children might come into contact with hazardous materials or equipment.

2. Bonded Labour: This type of labour occurs when young people are made to work in return for debts that are frequently unrepayable, thereby imprisoning them and their families in a cycle of exploitation and poverty. Many industries use bonded labour, but brick kilns and agriculture are two of them. [9]

3. Domestic servitude: A large number of minors, especially girls, are hired in metropolitan houses as domestic labour. These children are frequently denied an education and a typical childhood, in addition to working long hours for little compensation and experiencing maltreatment.

4. Agricultural and Industrial Labour: Many minors are employed in the agricultural sector, frequently performing physically taxing and dangerous jobs like harvesting and applying pesticides. In a similar vein, children can be found labouring in factories, producing items in abusive environments.

Comprehending these criteria and classifications is essential in tackling the complex problem of child labour in India, as it guides legislative and policy actions that safeguard the rights of children.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

2.2 STATISTICAL OVERVIEW

Millions of children in India are impacted by child labour in a variety of industries, making it a grave problem. Recent data show concerning patterns in the frequency and demographic distribution of child labour in the nation, despite attempts to address this problem. The 2011 Census found that 10.1 million children between the ages of 5 and 14 worked as minors, with a sizable fraction of them working in dangerous jobs. [10] Even while this number is lower than in prior decades, it nonetheless highlights the ongoing problem of child labour in India. According to recent studies from the International Labour Organization (ILO), children work disproportionately in manufacturing, household work, and agriculture. In India, child labourers make up approximately 70% of the workforce in one sector alone. [11]

CURRENT TRENDS IN DEMOGRAPHY

Age, gender, and regional differences are important factors in the demographic patterns related to child labour.

1. Age: A large percentage of child labourers are between the ages of 5 and 14, and a considerable proportion of adolescents between the ages of 15 and 18 are also employed. According to the 2011 Census, children between the ages of 10 and 14 make up the majority

of child workers, with many of them working in physically taxing jobs. [12]

2. Gender: Gender differences are also noticeable; boys are often more likely to work in labour-intensive jobs, while girls have more frequently worked in unregulated sectors and domestic slavery. [13] According to recent studies, girls make up around 40% of child labourers and are more vulnerable to the dangers and vulnerabilities brought on by discrimination based on their gender. [14]

3. Rural vs. Urban Distribution: Child labour is much more common in rural regions due to a lack of educational possibilities and economic challenges that force families to turn to child work as a source of extra cash. According to the 2011 Census, a large percentage of child labourers, about 80%, live in rural regions and work in agriculture and similar industries. [15]

On the other hand although the general rate of child labour in metropolitan areas is lower, children are nevertheless frequently employed in dangerous workplaces or as domestic workers.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC'S EFFECTS

The COVID-19 epidemic has made matters worse by forcing more children into the workforce as a result of families experiencing increased financial difficulties. A UNICEF analysis estimates that the epidemic has increased child labour worldwide, putting millions of children in danger of being forced out of school and into the workforce. [16] According to studies, the pandemic's economic effects have made families in India more vulnerable, which has increased the number of children working in a variety of industries as a result of their forced labour to support their families during this difficult time. [17]

3. NATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORKS IN INDIA

India's Constitution and other national legislation have greatly supported the creation of strong laws to prevent child labour. This section examines the constitutional clauses about child work, emphasizing the core rights and guiding concepts meant to safeguard the welfare and rights of children.

3.1 CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS

With a focus on children's safety and welfare, the Indian Constitution has several clauses that either directly or indirectly address child labour. The significant pieces consist of: Article 21a: Right to Education: According to Article 21a of the Constitution, all children between six and fourteen must receive free public education. Since access to education is a vital deterrent to child labour, this fundamental right is crucial in the battle against child labour. The state may lessen children's susceptibility to abusive job conditions by ensuring they obtain an education. [18] “The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009” delineates the duties of both the state and parents in safeguarding the educational rights of their children, therefore operationalizing this constitutional duty. [19]

Article 24: Prohibition of Child Labour in Hazardous Industries: Article 24 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the employment of children under 14 in factories, mines, or other hazardous work. The Constitution protects children's rights and welfare by preventing exploitation, ensuring their access to education, and safeguarding their health and development.

The state's dedication to protecting children from dangerous workplace environments that may hurt their physical and mental well-being is reflected in this clause. [20]

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

Directive Principles of State Policy (Article 39): “Articles 39(e) and 39(f) of the Directive Principles of State Policy, in particular, highlight the state's obligation to safeguard childhood from neglect and to prevent child exploitation.” Article 39 requires the state to focus its policies on ensuring the following:

(e) That children are free from discrimination and exploitation of any kind and that they have access to resources and opportunities for a healthy, balanced growth of their bodies and minds. (f) The protection of childhood and youth from harmful and immoral behaviours, as well as against exploitation.

The state formulates laws and programs directed at the welfare of children based on these basic principles, which are not subject to justiciability. This emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to child protection. [21]

The Indian Constitution's clauses defining children's rights and the state's obligations are vital in tackling the problem of child labour. The Constitution establishes a robust foundation for legislative actions to end child labour and protects children's welfare through Articles 21a and 24 and the Directive Principles of State Policy. Even with these strong provisions, there are still significant obstacles that must be overcome to effectively carry out the constitutional duty, including effective implementation and enforcement.

3.2 STATUTORY LAWS

India has passed important statutory legislation to address various facets of the problem of child labour. The primary statutes listed below offer a thorough legal foundation for the nation's ban and control of child labour.

The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016:The landmark legislation known as the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, fortifies India's legal framework on child labour. [22] Significant clauses in this Act include: Prohibition of Employment for Children Under 14 in Any Occupation: The Act, which reflects a commitment to protect children from exploitative labour practices, forbids children under 14 from any process or vocation. This ban complies with global norms, guaranteeing that children may play and receive an education without having concerns about labour.

Regulation of Employment for Adolescents (14–18 Years): The Act permits the work of teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18, but only in jobs that do not pose a health risk. It requires that specific rules about working hours, circumstances, and rest intervals be followed for such employment. This clause recognizes the need for a balanced strategy by permitting teenagers to work while making sure their health and safety come first.

The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, provides a thorough structure to safeguard children in legal trouble. [23] This Act's salient features comprise: Protection of Children in Conflict with the Law: The Act places more emphasis on rehabilitating and reintegrating children into society than it does on using punitive measures. It creates a legal structure that guarantees children's rights are upheld during the legal process and is used for their care, protection, and rehabilitation.

Ensuring Rehabilitation: To give children essential care and rehabilitation, the Act requires the creation of Child Care Institutions. To ensure the well-being of these kids and ease their reintegration into society, it also encourages the engagement of child welfare committees in the supervision of their treatment and rehabilitation.

The Right to Education Act, 2009: The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act) ensures that children have access to education, which is vital in reducing child labour. [24] Essential clauses consist of:

Free and Compulsory Education for Children Ages 6 to 14: Under the RTE Act, all children in kindergarten through grade 14 are needed to have free and compulsory education. By guaranteeing that children are not forced into labour because of financial constraints or a lack of educational options, this law seeks to remove obstacles to education.

Preventative Measure Against Child Labour: The RTE Act acts as a preventative measure against child labour by ensuring access to education. Giving kids the abilities and information they need to end the cycle of exploitation and poverty tackles the underlying causes of child labour.

India's statutory laws, including the Right to Education Act of 2009, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015, and the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act of 2016, establish a complex legal structure designed to counter child labour. Even though these regulations are vital for safeguarding the rights and well-being of children, their successful elimination from child labour in India depends on their efficient execution and oversight.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

3.3 ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS

Enforcing child labour regulations effectively is essential to appropriately using legislative frameworks to safeguard children's rights. Enforcing these regulations is within the purview of several national and state government entities in India. Furthermore, impartial organizations like, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are crucial in monitoring and promoting children's rights. An overview of these enforcement strategies is given in this section.

Overview of Central and State Government Agencies

1. Central Government Agencies:

The major national organization in charge of developing and carrying out child labour laws is the Ministry of Labour and Employment. It gives state governments direction and assistance in enforcing the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 and supervises its implementation. Under this ministry, the Directorate General of Labour Welfare is in charge of educating the public about the laws regarding child labour and carrying out inspections to guarantee compliance in different industries. [25]

2. State Government Agencies:

The state-level implementation and enforcement of child labour regulations are the responsibility of the labour departments of each state. Workers' locations are routinely inspected by them, particularly in sectors like mining, textiles, and agriculture that are renowned for using child labour.

The Juvenile Justice Act of 2015 established the District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), which are vital to the implementation of child protection legislation. They oversee the monitoring of child labour practices and the implementation of child welfare programs.

Role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) India's independent National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was founded to advance and defend human rights. [26] Its involvement with child labour entails-

• Monitoring Compliance: The NHRC keeps an eye on how child labour laws are being applied and has the authority to become involved when there are human rights abuses connected to child labour practices.

• Investigating Complaints: To make sure that victims of child labour receive justice and the assistance they need, the NHRC is empowered to look into complaints about the practice.

• Advocacy and Awareness: To provide a comprehensive approach to child welfare, the NHRC also takes part in advocacy campaigns to increase public knowledge of child rights and the detrimental effects of child labour.

• Role of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): • The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is another important organization that strives to safeguard children's rights in India. [27] Its obligations consist of:

• Monitoring Enforcement: The NCPCR maintains watch over the application of child protection laws and regulations, particularly those that try to end child labour. It evaluates how well governmental initiatives are working and offers suggestions for development.

• Research and Advocacy: Furthermore, by conducting studies on child labour-related concerns, the NCPCR promotes stricter laws and regulations that better safeguard children. Additionally, it collaborates with groups from civil society to raise awareness and encourage action against child labour.

• Intervention in Violations of Children's Rights: To ensure responsibility among pertinent agencies, the NCPCR may step in when certain situations involving the violation of children's rights, such as child labour, occur.

Central and state government agencies, along with independent human rights authorities, collaborate to implement enforcement measures aimed at curbing child labour in India. Although these systems offer a foundation for the legal protection of children's rights, the efficiency of their implementation is still a problem, requiring constant oversight, lobbying, and cooperation from all parties involved.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

4. CHALLENGES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CHILD LABOUR LAWS IN INDIA

Effective legislative frameworks are in place to prevent child labour in India, but many obstacles remain in the way of their efficient application. This section explores the cultural settings that contribute to the occurrence of child labour as well as the socioeconomic elements that sustain it.

4.1 SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS

1. Poverty and Economic Necessity: In India, child labour is still primarily caused by poverty, as many families depend on the money their children earn to cover their basic expenses. Poverty-stricken families frequently have to make difficult decisions between short term financial survival and long-term educational gains. The 2011 Census indicates that a sizable portion of children who work come from economically vulnerable households, where the loss of a child's income might have a catastrophic impact on the stability of the family's finances. This problem has become more harmful because of the absence of social security programs, which leave families without a safety net in financial emergencies. [28]

2. Lack of Access to Quality Education: There is a complicated relationship between child labour and schooling. Lack of access to high-quality education may contribute to child labour as well as be a result of it. Significant obstacles to education, such as subpar schools, limited infrastructure, and a teacher shortage, affect the majority of youngsters living in rural regions. As a result, to support their families, children are sometimes forced to enter the workforce at an early age. In addition, children who work frequently find it a challenge to focus on their education or attend school, which feeds the cycle of poverty and illiteracy that supports child labour practices. [29]

3. Cultural Acceptance of Child Labour: Child labour is a regular aspect of life in various businesses and geographical areas. Conventional traditions, such as having children work on farms or family-run enterprises, are sometimes justified as ways for the kids to acquire a trade or support their families. Resistance to legislative measures intended to end child work may result from this cultural normalization. Furthermore, because hiring minors has historically been a staple of the local economy, certain companies could continue this practice.

[30]

Effective legal framework implementation is a challenging issue closely linked to the socioeconomic elements that propel child labour in India. Changing cultural attitudes toward child labour, expanding access to high-quality education, and strengthening financial assistance for families are just a few of the many facets that must be included in any comprehensive strategy to address these issues.

4.2 WEAK ENFORCEMENT AND CORRUPTION

The efficacy of current legal frameworks is compromised by systemic corruption and resource restrictions, making it a challenge to implement child labour regulations in India. These topics are thoroughly examined in this section.

1. Resource Constraints in Law Enforcement Agencies: Law enforcement organizations tasked with keeping an eye on and upholding child labour regulations frequently face significant resource limitations, such as low financing, a shortage of employees, and a lack of training. Their capacity to carry out exhaustive inspections and investigations into child labour abuses is hampered by these restrictions. For instance, it could be challenging for local labour inspectors to adequately monitor compliance given their need to cover large geographic regions. Due to a lack of resources, many firms continue to use child labour without worrying about facing legal ramifications, which results in a lack of deterrent against offenders. [31]

2. Corruption and Lack of Political Will: The execution of child labour regulations is severely hampered by corruption in law enforcement. Bribery and cooperation between businesses and municipal officials are frequent occurrences that enable companies to avoid facing legal repercussions for using underage labour. Furthermore, insufficient action against child labour abuses frequently stems from a lack of political will to protect the rights of children. Political leaders may be reluctant to take up the problem because they fear adverse effects on the economy or on their ability to win elections, especially in areas where child labour is common and socially acceptable. This disregard for upholding the law creates a vicious circle of impunity for those who break it, which in turn fuels the ongoing problem of child labour in India. [32]

The implementation of child labour laws in India is hindered by weak enforcement mechanisms and corruption. To counter these challenges, there is an immediate need to increase funding for law enforcement, provide thorough training for inspectors, and establish accountability measures to discourage corruption. Tackling these issues is essential to guaranteeing that legal protections for children are not just theoretical but also successfully applied in real-world situations.

4.3 INFORMAL SECTOR CHALLENGES

Since the informal economy makes up most of the sectors in India where child labour is common, it poses considerable obstacles to the battle against it. This section addresses the challenges of implementing labour regulations in the unorganized sector and identifies the problematic industries.

1. Concentration of Child Labour in the Informal Economy: The informal sector, which comprises unregulated work devoid of official contracts, benefits, and monitoring, accounts for a sizable share of child labour in India. In rural and urban regions, where families depend on low-wage work to live, a significant portion of job prospects are found in the informal sector. As a result, it is challenging to appropriately manage and keep an eye on working circumstances. Those who labour in these informal industries sometimes have little legal protection or remedy, which leaves them highly susceptible to abuse. [33]

2. Industries with Lax Regulation: Child labour is greatly exacerbated by several important industries, including textiles, agriculture, and household work. Children work long hours in dangerous situations in agriculture, including labour-intensive chores like planting, harvesting, and hauling heavy loads. Likewise, children are often employed by the textile industry in spinning and weaving operations, where they may come into contact with hazardous materials and equipment. One of the least regulated industries is still domestic employment, in which young people, usually females, are hired by homes to help with cooking and cleaning, take care of younger siblings, and do other tasks. There are frequent infractions of labour rules and children's rights in these workplaces since there is little supervision and control. [34]

3. Barriers to Enforcement: Enforcing child labour rules is made more difficult by the informal character of these businesses. Because there is no oversight and the labour in these positions is temporary, employers in the informal sector frequently circumvent laws. Additionally, since these sectors of the economy typically involve tiny, unregistered businesses or private houses, adolescents employed in these fields may remain undetected by the authorities. The difficulties in tackling child labour in the informal sector are further compounded by the lack of official records and the unwillingness of families to disclose infractions for fear of consequences or unstable finances. [35]

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

The informal sector's concentration of child labour is a serious obstacle to the issue's elimination in India. To safeguard children from exploitation in these precarious situations, addressing the issues raised by unregulated sectors would necessitate innovative approaches to regulation, improved monitoring systems, and community awareness initiatives.

5. POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

The following policy ideas are put out to improve the protection of children's rights and reinforce legal frameworks in light of the difficulties found in tackling child labour in India:

5.1 STRENGTHENING LAW ENFORCEMENT

Resource Allocation: The government should allocate additional financial and human resources to law enforcement agencies responsible for monitoring and enforcing child labour laws. This includes training personnel to recognize and address child labour effectively, especially in informal sectors where enforcement is particularly challenging.

Monitoring Mechanisms: To guarantee that child labour rules are followed, strict monitoring systems must be established. This can improve accountability and openness in enforcement through routine inspections, reporting mechanisms, and community engagement.

5.2 ENHANCING SOCIAL PROTECTION

Social Welfare Programs: Increasing the availability of social welfare services, such as food aid, cash transfer programs, and educational subsidies, might lessen the financial strain that forces some families to turn to child labour. The goal of targeted activities should be to disrupt the cycle of poverty that frequently leads to child labour by concentrating on vulnerable groups.

Skill Development Programs: Adolescents might have other sources of income through the implementation of skill development programs, which lessen their reliance on child labour. Education and vocational training programs should be combined to enable children to explore better career options when they grow up.

5.3 IMPROVING ACCESS TO EDUCATION

Implementation of the Right to Education Act: The shortcomings in the 2009 law's implementation must be addressed. Providing essential learning materials, upgrading school facilities, and guaranteeing that every kid has access to high-quality education are all part of this.

Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness of the value of education and the long term advantages of keeping kids in school among parents and the community can help to lower the rate of child labour. These initiatives can be made more effective by including local leaders and groups.

5.4 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Cross-Border Efforts: It is imperative to fortify worldwide collaboration in the fight against child labour, especially in sectors like agriculture, textiles, and apparel connected to international supply networks. To exchange best practices, information, and tactics for successfully ending child labour, India should hold discussions with other nations and international organizations.

Corporate Accountability: One way to lessen child labour is to push multinational companies to follow moral labour standards and keep a careful eye on their supply networks. Governments ought to reward businesses that abide by laws against child labour and punish those that don't follow global labour standards.

5.5 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND ADVOCACY

Involving Civil Society: NGOs and neighbourhood-based groups can help increase grassroots knowledge and mobilization in the battle against child labour. These groups possess the capacity to be extremely important in locating children who are at risk and fighting for their rights.

Participatory Approaches: Regarding child labour, policies should use participatory methods that include kids, families, and communities in the decision-making process. By being inclusive, policies are formulated with the voices of people impacted by child labour in mind.

Various parties, including governmental organizations, the commercial sector, and civil society, must work together to implement these policy proposals. India may achieve substantial progress in eliminating child labour and guaranteeing the rights and dignity of all children by fortifying law enforcement, augmenting social protection, expanding educational opportunities, cultivating international collaboration, and involving communities.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

6. CONCLUSION

“Child labour is still a pervasive problem in India, resulting from a confluence of structural, cultural and socio-economic factors.” The persistence of child labour indicates serious difficulties in enforcing laws and implementing policies, even in India, which has robust legislative frameworks and a strong commitment to international conventions such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Although laws like the Right to Education Act of 2009 and the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act of 2016 seek to safeguard children, there is a need for stronger tactics due to the lack of enforcement and the prevalence of child labour in the unorganized sector. This paper has outlined several significant obstacles, such as lax legal enforcement, corruption, scarce resources, and the informal nature of most child labour. In addition, families who depend on child labour to make ends meet are further perpetuating the practice due to socio-economic factors, including poverty and illiteracy.

India has to take a comprehensive approach that goes beyond legal structures to end child labour. It is imperative to fortify law enforcement, enhance social welfare initiatives, and broaden the reach of high-quality education. Furthermore, it is critical to address the socio economic causes of child labour by implementing policies that reduce poverty and raising public understanding of the significance of children's rights. Fostering international collaboration, especially in industries associated with worldwide supply chains, can also guarantee that minors are not abused.

In summary, combating child labour necessitates dedication to both enacting robust legislation and promoting a cultural revolution that sees child work as a grave violation of human rights. India can make significant strides in guaranteeing the safety, education, and dignity of every child by coordinating legislative frameworks with all-encompassing social changes. The nation can only expect to end child labour and build a future where children aren't exploited and can reach their full potential by making a comprehensive and persistent effort.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

References:

[1] United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, 1989.

[2] International Labour Organization, Convention No. 138 on Minimum Age, 1973.

[3] International Labour Organization, Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, 1999. [4] Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, 53.

[5] National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), Annual Report 2022-23. [6] International Labour Organization, "Impact of COVID-19 on Child Labour in India," ILO Brief, 2020. [7] International Labour Organization. (2017). Global estimates of child labour: Results and trends, 2012-2016. ILO.

[8] Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, No. 61 of 1986, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India.

[9] International Labour Organization. (2018). Ending child labour in domestic work: A guide for policy-makers. ILO.

[10] Government of India. (2011). Census 2011: Child Labour Data. Ministry of Home Affairs. [11] International Labour Organization. (2020). Child Labour: Global Estimates 2020. ILO. [12] Government of India. (2011). Census 2011: Child Labour Data. Ministry of Home Affairs. [13] International Labour Organization. (2018). Women and Child Labour in India: Issues and Challenges. ILO. [14] UNICEF. (2021). The State of the World’s Children 2021: Children in Crisis. UNICEF. [15] Government of India. (2011). Census 2011: Child Labour Data. Ministry of Home Affairs. [16] UNICEF. (2020). COVID-19 and Child Labour: A Time to Act. UNICEF.

[17] International Labour Organization. (2021). Child Labour and COVID-19: The Impact on Children’s Rights. ILO.

[18] Constitution of India, Article 21a.

[19] Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (Act No. 35 of 2009). [20] Constitution of India, Article 24.

[21] Constitution of India, Article 39.

[22] The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 (Act No. 61 of 1986). [23] The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (Act No. 2 of 2016). [24] The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (Act No. 35 of 2009). [25] Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, "Annual Report 2022-2023." [26] National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), "Annual Report 2021-2022."

[27] National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), "Annual Report 2021-2022." [28] Government of India, Census of India 2011, "Child Population in India."

[29] UNICEF, "The State of the World’s Children 2021: On My Mind – Promoting, Protecting and Caring for Children’s Mental Health," 2021.

[30] International Labour Organization (ILO), "Child Labour in India: Trends and Statistics," 2021. [31] Labour Bureau, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, "Report on Child Labour in India," 2019.

[32] UNICEF, "Corruption in the Context of Child Rights," 2020.

[33] International Labour Organization, "Child Labour: Global Estimates 2020," 2021.

VYNO LEGAL INTERNATION JOURNAL

[34] UNICEF, "Child Labour in Agriculture: A Global Overview," 2022.

[35] Government of India, Ministry of Labour and Employment, "Report on the Informal Sector," 2020.