Srinagar: On World Day Against Child Labour, officials in Jammu and Kashmir said that the government is working diligently to fully eliminate child labour in the region. They said public cooperation is crucial to end this menace.
Speaking with the Hafsa Qayoom, Assistant Labour Commissioner of Pulwama, said there might still be areas in J&K where child labour exists. However, she noted that her department has been conducting extensive drives across the region, and such cases are rarely found.
Hafsa said that district-level committees, including members from the labour department, social welfare, health, and police are actively working to ensure there are no instances of child labour.
“The government’s efforts, in collaboration with NGOs, focus on improving working conditions for any children forced into labour, ensuring they receive proper healthcare and educational opportunities, and gradually working towards the complete eradication of child labour,” she said.
“Thamogay Hathoon Mai Hath Jo Chalogay Inkay Sath, Hongay Hathoon Mai Inkay Kalam, Tabi Taraqi Karaygay Hum,” she said while highlighting the importance of education and cooperation in achieving progress.
Another official from the labour department said the Jammu and Kashmir government is making significant strides in rehabilitating children in street situations. “New policies propose strict legal actions against those employing children, urging the registration of FIRs against violators under the Child Labour Act, the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Indian Penal Code,” he added.
Officials said there is a critical need for public cooperation to end child labour. They urged the people to contact the labour department or other relevant authorities immediately if they witnessed any incidents of child labour.
The officials explained that poverty, unemployment and low literacy rates among parents are primary drivers of child labour in the region. “Efforts to improve educational opportunities and economic conditions for families are essential in reducing child labour and ensuring a better future for these children,” they said.
Child labour refers to the employment of children aged 5 to 17 years, depriving them of their childhood and forcing them into a life of deprivation and illiteracy—(KNO)
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