World Day Against Child Labor - 12 June

Why in News?

• World Day Against Child Labor is celebrated every year on 12 June all over the world.
• The purpose of this day is to protect the rights of children and provide them with opportunities for education, health and development.
• Child labor arises from poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, social inequality and lack of awareness.
• Theme of World Day Against Child Labor-2025: Progress is clear, but there's more to do: let’s speed up efforts!

History

• This day was started by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in the year 2002.
• ILO adopted the 'Worst Forms of Child Labor Convention (No. 182)' in 1999.

Definition of Child Labor

• Child labor is work:
  • For which the child has to leave school.
  • Which is harmful to his mental, physical, social or moral condition.
  • Which is excessively difficult, dangerous or exploitative in proportion to his age.
• According to ILO:
  • When children between the ages of 5 and 17 years are engaged in work that impedes their education, health or development, it is called child labour.

Status of Child Labour in India

• According to Census 2011:
  • There were 1.01 crore child labourers in India (5-14 years age group)
• Most child labourers work in unorganized sector, domestic work, agriculture, gravel-sand transportation and shops.

Legal Initiatives in India

Suggestions for elimination of child labour

• Encourage education – All children should get quality education.
• Poverty eradication – Financial assistance to poor families.
• Awareness campaign – Make people aware of the ill-effects of child labour.
• Strict enforcement of laws – Strict action against employers involved in child labour.
• Participation of voluntary organisations – Cooperation of NGOs and civil society is necessary.