Designed by Freepik
Child labor remains a deeply entrenched social issue in India, affecting millions of children and impeding the nation’s progress. Despite significant economic growth and legislative efforts to curb this practice, child labor continues to thrive, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.
Several factors contribute to the persistence of child labor in India. The primary cause is widespread poverty. Many families, struggling to meet basic needs, rely on the additional income generated by their children. Every earning member, regardless of age, in these households, is crucial to survival.
Education, or the lack thereof, also plays a critical role. Many impoverished families cannot afford to send their children to school or live in areas where educational facilities are inadequate or inaccessible. Additionally, the opportunity cost of education—losing the income a working child could provide—often deters parents from prioritizing schooling. To address this, the Mid Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) was introduced in India to encourage school attendance by providing free lunch in government and government-aided schools. This program ensures that at least one meal is taken care of, and many parents send their children to school primarily for this reason.
In my previous school, I used to take the bus home, and like most school buses in India, there was a didi (elder sister in Hindi) who helped the children and ensured we got to school safely. During a conversation with her, she mentioned that she also worked part-time at a school that provided Mid Day Meals. She observed that many children attended school mainly for the food. Poverty is so widespread that if the promised meal is not provided, children often don’t show up to school and are instead made to work.
Cultural factors further complicate the issue. In some communities, child labor is normalized and even expected. Traditional roles and the belief that children should contribute to the family’s welfare perpetuate this practice. Additionally, industries that rely on cheap labor, such as agriculture, textiles, and mining, often exploit children to reduce operational costs, thereby fueling the cycle of child labor.
The implications of child labor are profound and far-reaching. Children engaged in labor miss out on essential education, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and limiting future opportunities. This lack of schooling hampers their ability to secure better-paying, skilled jobs as adults, trapping them in low-wage employment.
In 2012, the demand for firecrackers surged during Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” which is widely celebrated across India. Symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, the festival is marked by lighting lamps and bursting crackers. However, in Odisha’s Kendrapara district, this demand led to children being forced to manufacture hazardous firecrackers. Ghanashyam Jena, a fireworks maker, even defended the practice, stating, “There is nothing wrong with it. After all, it’s our livelihood. Why should we be penalized for it? They are our own children, and we have every right to involve them in our family trade.” Such is the mindset in many small towns and cities which destroys a child’s innocence.
Child labor also poses severe health risks. Many children work in hazardous conditions, exposed to chemicals, heavy machinery, and extreme environments. The physical toll of such labor can result in chronic illnesses, injuries, and stunted growth. Beyond the physical dangers and educational setbacks, child labor inflicts significant psychological harm. The long hours and harsh conditions often lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. These children are frequently deprived of normal childhood experiences, such as play, education, and social interaction, leading to feelings of isolation and helplessness. Exposure to such adversities during formative years can lead to long-term psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), difficulties in forming healthy relationships, and a higher risk of engaging in substance abuse as a coping mechanism. The absence of mental health support systems in these children’s lives means that these issues often go unaddressed, leading to lifelong consequences.
The constant pressure to contribute financially to their families can result in a persistent sense of burden and responsibility far beyond their years. Many child laborers are subject to verbal, physical, and even sexual abuse in the workplace, exacerbating trauma and mental health issues. The lack of a supportive environment and positive adult role models further diminishes their emotional well-being and self-esteem.
Addressing child labor requires a multifaceted approach, combining legislative action, education, and community engagement. Strengthening and enforcing existing labor laws is crucial. The government must ensure that child labor regulations are effectively implemented and violators are held accountable.
Education is a powerful tool in combating child labor. Increasing access to quality education, particularly in rural and impoverished areas, can provide children with viable alternatives to labor. Incentives such as free meals, scholarships, and transportation can encourage families to prioritize schooling over work. Economic support for families in need is also vital. Empowering communities through awareness campaigns and involving local leaders in advocacy efforts can shift cultural attitudes and promote the value of education and childhood. Furthermore, integrating mental health services into community programs can help address the psychological issues faced by former child laborers. Counseling, support groups, and mental health education can aid in healing the trauma and building resilience.
Child labor in India is a heartbreaking reality that robs children of their innocence and potential. By prioritizing education, enforcing laws, and fostering compassion, this cycle can end and a commitment to ensure every child has the chance to dream, learn, and play, building a just and equitable society can be made.
A few years ago, we used to have a house help whose daughter had topped her CBSE 12th standard Board exams. She was offered scholarships from various colleges. However, her parents did not allow her to study further. She was told to quit her school and start working with her mother. She could’ve had a better life with better qualifications, but her parents refused to reason with her. She was soon going to be married off to a suitable groom. Although her brother was allowed to work, she wasn’t. This not only speaks about child labor in India but also speaks volumes about the mindset and patriarchy in India.
