Dr. Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit
Child labour remains a serious concern in Jammu and Kashmir, with estimates suggesting that more than one lakh children are engaged in labour across various sectors such as handicrafts, automobile workshops, brick kilns, agriculture, and domestic work. Despite the existence of strict laws prohibiting child labour, recent rescue operations have once again highlighted the gravity of the issue.
In November 2024, authorities rescued around 10–15 children from different workplaces, while another seven children were rescued in February 2025 in Reasi district. These incidents reveal that the problem continues to persist beneath the surface of society.
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of child labour in the region. Poverty, lack of access to quality education, and the expansion of the informal economy remain the primary drivers. Parental illiteracy and lack of awareness about the harmful consequences of child labour further worsen the situation. Many families, struggling to survive economically, see child labour as a means of supplementing household income.
The consequences for these children are severe. Child labour often exposes them to hazardous working conditions, physical exhaustion, mental stress, and exploitation. Instead of enjoying a secure childhood and receiving education, many children spend long hours working in unsafe environments. A large number of child labourers come from rural areas, where educational opportunities and economic support systems remain limited.
Recognizing the seriousness of the issue, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has initiated several drives to curb child labour, focusing on rescue operations, rehabilitation programmes, and support services for affected children. However, tackling child labour cannot be the responsibility of the government alone.
Educated citizens and community members also have an important role to play. Raising awareness about the harmful effects of child labour, supporting educational initiatives for disadvantaged children, and encouraging community participation can significantly contribute to addressing the problem.
A major challenge lies in the fact that most child labour occurs in the unorganized sector, where regulatory oversight is minimal. The handicrafts sector, for instance, employs a large number of children because work centres are easily accessible and labour costs are low. These conditions make it difficult for authorities to monitor and regulate employment practices.
The impact of child labour extends beyond individual children—it affects society as a whole. It perpetuates cycles of poverty, illiteracy, and social inequality. Children forced into labour are more likely to drop out of school, reducing their chances of securing better employment in the future. This not only limits their personal growth but also deprives society of their potential contributions.
Addressing this issue requires stronger enforcement of existing laws, along with policies that improve access to education and provide economic support to vulnerable families. Increasing community awareness and encouraging citizen participation are equally important in preventing child labour.
Providing alternative livelihood opportunities for families, implementing vocational training programmes for older children, and ensuring access to education, healthcare, and nutrition can help reduce the economic pressures that lead to child labour. Community-led initiatives and support for NGOs working in this field can also play a crucial role.
Ending child labour requires a collective effort involving government agencies, civil society organisations, communities, and individuals. Only through coordinated and sustained action can we ensure that children are protected from exploitation and provided with opportunities for education and development.
The road ahead demands commitment and cooperation from all sections of society. Every child deserves a safe childhood, access to education, and the chance to build a brighter future. By prioritising education, raising awareness, and empowering vulnerable families economically, Jammu and Kashmir can move closer to becoming a child-friendly and equitable society.
A comprehensive and compassionate approach is essential to eliminate child labour and address its root causes. By working together, we can ensure that children across Jammu and Kashmir grow up in an environment that allows them to learn, thrive, and realise their full potential.
