CENTRAL BOARD OF SECONDARY EDUCATION

INDIAN SCHOOL IBRI

ENGLISH PROJECT ON

TOPIC: “CHILD LABOUR”

Name: Mohammad Ramzan

Arshad

Class: XII
Roll no.:
 INDIAN SCHOOL IBRI

Cer ficate

This is to certify that

Master/Miss ______________________________________of class XII

has carried out the project work in

English
as per the syllabus prescribed by the

Central Board of Secondary Education

in the year 2024-25.

Date: _________

[SEAL]
_____________ _____________
Internal Examiner External Examiner
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my sincere gra tude to the
following people for their invaluable support and guidance in
the comple on of this project on child labor:
My English teacher, Mr. Edwin George, for his constant
encouragement and helpful sugges ons. His guidance and
feedback were instrumental in shaping this project.
Our school principal, Mr. V.S. Suresh, for his support and
for providing me with the necessary resources. His belief in my
abili es encouraged me to pursue this project with dedica on.
I would also like to thank my parents and friends for
their love and support throughout this process. Their
encouragement and understanding helped me overcome
challenges and complete this project successfully.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked on this
project and hope that my research contributes to raising
awareness about the issue of child labor.
 Introduction

“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the

future.” — John F. Kennedy

This profound statement emphasizes the immense potential and significance of

children in molding the future. They are the cornerstone of society, the innovators and
torchbearers of development. However, the harsh reality of child labor undermines this
potential. Instead of nurturing children and empowering them with education, opportunities,
and a safe environment, millions of them are trapped in a cycle of exploitation, either by
laboring under harsh conditions to support their families or as a result of societal neglect.

Child labor is a global issue that deprives millions of children of their education,
health, and basic rights. This issue maintains a cycle of poverty as children who are
denied education and development chances are more likely to experience restricted
options in adulthood, further entrenching inequality and socioeconomic inequities.
By empowering children to reclaim their right to education and a healthy upbringing,
we create a foundation for a future where every individual can contribute meaningfully to the
community. Addressing child labor is, therefore, not merely an act of compassion but a
moral and strategic responsibility to unlock the true potential of our world.
 Child Labor in India
India, a rapidly developing nation, has made significant strides in various sectors,
from technology to infrastructure. Yet, despite these advancements, a large portion of
its population continues to grapple with poverty. This socio-economic disparity has
given rise to numerous challenges, one of the most pressing being the persistence of
child labor. Millions of children across India are forced to work, often in hazardous and
exploitative conditions, depriving them of their basic rights to education, health, and a
secure childhood. The graph depicts number of child workers (in millions) between the
age of 5 to 17 in India as of 2018/19

Child labor in India is a pervasive issue, deeply intertwined with the country’s
socio-economic realities, particularly poverty and inequality. Despite India’s growing
economy, a large proportion of its population still lives below the poverty line. Families
facing economic hardship often see child labor as a necessary survival strategy. In
these vulnerable households, children are seen as additional contributors to the family
income, which is often too meager to cover even the basic needs of food, shelter, and
healthcare. As a result, children are forced into various forms of work at a very young
age, sacrificing their childhood and education for financial survival. The graph shown
below gives information on the distribution of child laborers across different industries.
 The Indian government has implemented several measures to address child
labor, however, enforcement of these laws remains a significant challenge. Many
instances of child labor occur in informal and unregulated sectors, where monitoring and
intervention are difficult. Corruption and lack of resources further hinder effective
enforcement. Moreover, societal attitudes and lack of awareness about the harms of
child labor contribute to its persistence.
 Child Labor in the light of The Lost Spring
In Lost Spring, Anees Jung sheds light on the grim reality of child labor through the
poignant stories of Saheb and Mukesh. These children, like millions across India, are
forced to forgo their childhood in favor of hard labor under exploitative conditions,
revealing the harsh socio-economic inequalities that trap
them.

Saheb, an environmental refugee from

Bangladesh displaced by floods, survives
as a ragpicker in the slums of Seemapuri.
Poverty compels him to roam the streets
collecting scraps to sell, sacrificing his
education and dreams. Despite his desire
to attend school, the harsh realities of his
family’s circumstances leave no room for
such aspirations. Later, Saheb finds work at a tea shop, earning ₹800 a month along
with meals. While it seems like an improvement, Jung observes that he has lost his
freedom and childhood. As a ragpicker, Saheb was his own master, but now he is
bound to the monotony of labor.

Mukesh, another victim of child labor, works in the hazardous glass-blowing industry of
Firozabad, shaping bangles in poorly
ventilated workshops filled with toxic
fumes. His story reflects the struggles
of countless children forced into
exploitative industries due to
generational poverty and family
traditions. Despite these challenges,
Mukesh dares to dream of becoming a
motor mechanic, showcasing resilience
amidst adversity.

Jung critiques the systemic failures that

perpetuate child labor, including the lack
of education, government intervention, and support for impoverished families. Her
narrative underscores how entrenched societal norms and poverty create a cycle that is
nearly impossible to break.
 Lost Spring is a powerful commentary on the inequalities that sustain child labor
in India. Through the stories of Saheb and Mukesh, Jung humanizes this issue, making
their plight impossible to ignore. The essay serves as a stark reminder that addressing
child labor requires not only rescuing children from exploitation but also creating
opportunities for them to learn, dream, and build a future free of oppression.
 Consequences of Child Labor
Child labor can have serious consequences for the health, education, and well-being of
children. Some of the negative impacts of child labor include:

1. Physical harm:

Children who work in hazardous conditions, such as mines, factories, or on construction

sites, are at risk of accidents, injuries, and illness. Dangerous machinery, chemicals,
and other hazards may expose them to serious physical harm.

2. Mental harm:

Children who work long hours and are subjected to abuse or exploitation may suffer
from mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. They may also
be at risk of psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

3. Deprivation of education:

Children who work instead of going to school are denied the opportunity to receive an
education, which can have long-term consequences for their future prospects and well-
being. Without education, the whole generation is put into the loop of poverty.

4. Exploitation:

Some forms of child labor, such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, and debt bondage,
are forms of exploitation that deprive children of their freedom and dignity. Children who
are exploited may be subjected to abuse, violence, and other forms of mistreatment.

5. Interference in development:

Child labor can interfere with children's physical and cognitive development, as well as
their social and emotional development. It can also hinder their ability to form
relationships and participate in age-appropriate activities.
 Major health problems in child workers
Child workers are vulnerable to a range of physical, mental, and emotional health problems
due to their work conditions. Some of the major health issues they may face include:

1. Respiratory Issues:

o Exposure to dust, smoke, or chemicals in factories or mines can lead

to conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pneumoconiosis
(lung disease caused by inhaling dust particles).

2. Musculoskeletal Disorders:

o Repetitive motions, improper posture, or lifting heavy loads can lead

to muscle strain, spinal deformities, and arthritis.

3. Trauma and Injuries:

o Child workers, especially in construction or agriculture, face a high risk

of cuts, burns, fractures, and lacerations from handling sharp tools,
machinery, or working in unsafe environments.

4. Infectious Diseases:

o Children working in unsanitary conditions are at greater risk of infections

like diarrhea, respiratory infections, and vector-borne diseases such
as malaria or dengue fever due to poor hygiene and lack of access to
clean water.

5. Malnutrition:

o Inadequate nutrition due to long working hours and poor living conditions
can lead to stunted growth, iron-deficiency anemia, and other
deficiencies that affect overall health and development.

6. Skin Diseases:

o Constant exposure to harmful chemicals, dirt, or extreme weather

conditions can cause dermatitis, eczema, and fungal infections.

7. Mental Health Issues:

o Child workers often face psychological problems like anxiety,

depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the
stress, abuse, and exploitation they experience at work.
8. Hearing Loss:

o Prolonged exposure to loud noises in industrial or construction

environments can result in noise-induced hearing loss.

9. Vision Problems:

o Children working with hazardous chemicals or in environments with

inadequate lighting can develop eye strain, blindness, or reduced vision
 International laws combating Child Labor

International laws and conventions play a crucial role in combating child labor by setting
standards, defining acceptable practices, and holding governments and organizations
accountable. Some key international legal frameworks addressing child labor include:

1. International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions

• ILO Convention No. 138 (Minimum Age Convention, 1973): Sets the minimum
age for employment, generally 15 years (or 14 in developing countries), and prohibits
hazardous work for individuals under 18.

• ILO Convention No. 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999):
Focuses on eliminating the worst forms of child labor, including slavery, trafficking,
prostitution, and hazardous work.

2. United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC, 1989)

• The UNCRC is a landmark international treaty that recognizes the rights of children
worldwide, including their right to protection from economic exploitation and hazardous work.
Articles 32 and 35 specifically obligate states to safeguard children from harmful labor
practices that interfere with their education, health, or overall development. The treaty also
emphasizes the importance of free and compulsory education, creating a foundation for
governments to implement legal and policy measures addressing child labor effectively.

3. Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR, 1948)

• The UDHR, a foundational document for human rights globally, indirectly combats
child labor by advocating for the protection of children and their right to education.
Article 25 highlights the necessity of ensuring adequate living standards, including
special care for motherhood and childhood. By emphasizing the right to education
under Article 26, the UDHR lays the groundwork for preventing child labor, as
education is a critical tool in breaking the cycle of exploitation and poverty.

4. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Adopted in 2015, the SDGs are a universal framework aimed at achieving a sustainable
future for all. Goal 8.7 specifically calls for eradicating child labor in all forms by 2025,
emphasizing the urgency of addressing forced labor, modern slavery, and trafficking. It
recognizes the link between child labor and poverty, advocating for inclusive economic
growth, access to education, and social protection measures. The SDGs encourage
global collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society to tackle the root
causes of child labor.
5. International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR, 1966)

• Article 10 highlights the need for special protection measures for children, including
freedom from exploitation and ensuring conditions conducive to their development.

6. Palermo Protocol (2000)

• The Palermo Protocol, supplementing the UN Convention against Transnational Organized

Crime, specifically addresses trafficking in persons, particularly women and children. It
mandates countries to adopt measures that criminalize trafficking for labor exploitation,
including child labor. The protocol promotes international cooperation to dismantle trafficking
networks and ensure victim rehabilitation. By linking child labor to broader issues of
trafficking and organized crime, the Palermo Protocol strengthens the global response to this
complex issue through law enforcement and preventive measures.

7. Regional Frameworks

• African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (1990): Prohibits child labor
that interferes with the child’s development and education.

• European Social Charter (1961, Revised 1996): Sets minimum age

standards for employment and promotes educational opportunities for children.

8. International Programs and Agreements

• Global Alliance 8.7: A partnership aimed at eradicating child labor, forced labor,
and human trafficking, aligned with the SDGs.

• ILO’s International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC):

Supports countries in implementing strategies to combat child labor.

These international laws and frameworks provide a foundation for countries to enact
national legislation, implement policies, and collaborate globally to eliminate child labor.
Initiatives taken by the Indian Government against Child Labor

1. Legal Framework for Protection

• Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (Amended in 2016):

This law prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in all occupations
and bans adolescents (14-18 years) from hazardous work. The 2016 amendment
introduced stricter penalties for violators and emphasized child rights.

• Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009: Ensures free and compulsory education
for children aged 6 to 14 years, addressing the root cause of child labor by
promoting education.

2. Welfare Schemes and Policy Initiatives

• National Child Labour Project (NCLP): Special schools are established to

rehabilitate rescued child laborers, offering free education, vocational training,
and healthcare.

• Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Provides free meals in schools to reduce hunger and
encourage school attendance, indirectly reducing child labor.

• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act):

Offers guaranteed employment to adults, reducing family dependence on
children's earnings.

• Skill India Mission: Focuses on vocational training for adolescents, equipping

them with skills for safe and sustainable employment.

3. Awareness, Monitoring, and Rehabilitation

• PENCIL Portal: A centralized online platform for reporting and monitoring child labor
cases, ensuring coordination among enforcement agencies and stakeholders.

• Collaboration with NGOs and International Organizations: Partnerships with

organizations like UNICEF and ILO strengthen rescue operations, awareness
campaigns, and rehabilitation programs.

These measures aim to tackle child labor comprehensively, from legal enforcement to
rehabilitation, and foster an environment where children can thrive in education and
development.
 Practices that individual must follow to eradicate child labor
There are several personal and societal responsibilities for addressing the issue of child
labor. Some of these include:

1. As individuals, we must raise awareness among our friends, family, and community. We
must also support organizations that are working to end child labor and protect the rights of
children, either through financial donations or by volunteering our time and skills.

2. As consumers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of the products we buy and the

companies we support. We can choose to buy products that are made ethically and
sustainably, avoiding products that may have been produced using child labor.

3. As citizens, we have a responsibility to advocate for policies and laws that protect
children's rights and prevent child labor. We can write to our representatives, attend
public meetings and hearings, and participate in grassroots campaigns and movements
to bring about change.
 Conclusion

Child labor remains a major issue, robbing children of their access to an education, health,
and a pleasant upbringing. Despite laws and measures designed at ending it, extreme
poverty, a lack of knowledge, and lax enforcement maintain the cycle. Combating child
labor necessitates a diverse approach that includes tougher law enforcement, more
accessible education, and poverty alleviation initiatives. Society must work together to
establish an atmosphere in which children may dream, study, and grow without the
constraints of labor. By investing in their future, we secure not just their well-being but also
the advancement of society as a whole, resulting in a more equal world.