Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

CHILD LABOUR IN INDIA: CAUSES AND IMPACT

Arushi Tiwari, Amity Law School, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh

Dr Reshma Umair, Amity Law School, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh

ABSTRACT

Child labour remains a pervasive problem in India, posing significant

challenges to the well-being of children, families and society as a whole. This
abstract provides a brief overview of a comprehensive research paper
examining the causes and impact of child labour in India. Based on an
extensive literature review, data analysis and case studies, this research paper
delves into the socioeconomic, cultural and legislative factors contributing
to the persistence of child labour. It also examines the multifaceted
consequences of child labour, including physical and mental health
consequences, educational deprivation and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
In addition, the paper discusses existing policy interventions and their
effectiveness and highlights the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms
and collaborative efforts between government, non-governmental
organizations and international agencies. By shedding light on the
complexity of the problem and proposing practical recommendations, this
research contributes to ongoing efforts to combat child labour and promote
the rights and well-being of children in India.

Keywords: Child labour, India, Causes, Impact, Socio-economic,

Legislation

Page: 5454
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

Introduction

Child labour is a pervasive and deeply disturbing problem that persists in India despite efforts
to combat it. As defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as work that deprives
children of their childhood, potential and dignity, it remains a violation of their rights and a
significant obstacle to their development. In India, millions of children are employed in various
forms of labour, often in exploitative and dangerous conditions that prevent them from
accessing education, health care and a safe environment for growth.

The background of child labour in India is complex and multifaceted. Rooted in socio-economic
differences, historical legacies and cultural norms, its prevalence varies across regions and
sectors. Poverty, lack of access to quality education and entrenched socio-cultural attitudes
contribute to its persistence, trapping generations in cycles of exploitation and poverty. While
legislative measures and international conventions aim to address the problem, insufficient
enforcement, insufficient implementation and gaps in the legal framework continue to impede
progress.

The purpose of this study is to delve deeper into the causes and consequences of child labour
in India. By examining existing literature, government reports and empirical data, the study
seeks to uncover the underlying factors that drive child labour practices and their impact on
lives. disabled children and society as a whole. In addition, it aims to identify challenges and
barriers to the eradication of child labour and propose evidence-based recommendations for
effective mitigation strategies.

To achieve these goals, the study will focus on several key research questions. These questions
will guide the examination of socio-economic factors contributing to child labour, the role of
cultural norms and attitudes, the effectiveness of existing legislative measures and the short-
and long-term impacts on child welfare. By critically analyzing these aspects, the study aims to
inform policy interventions and initiatives aimed at eradicating child labour and promoting the
rights and welfare of children in India.

Background of Child Labour in India

Child labour is a persistent problem in India, deeply rooted in socio-economic disparities,

cultural norms and historical factors. Despite legislative efforts and international conventions,

Page: 5455
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

millions of children across the country continue to be involved in various forms of labour,
depriving them of their basic rights to education, health and an exploitative childhood. The
prevalence of child labour varies across regions and sectors, with vulnerable populations such
as those from marginalized communities and rural areas being disproportionately affected.

Statement of the Problem

The prevalence of child labour in India poses a serious challenge to the country's development
goals and its commitment to the well-being of its children. Despite efforts to combat the
problem, a number of factors contribute to its persistence, including poverty, lack of access to
education, weak enforcement of child labour laws, and entrenched sociocultural attitudes.
Exploitation of children for economic gain not only deprives them of their rights, but also
perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality, preventing a nation from progressing towards
sustainable development.

Purpose of the Study

The primary purpose of this study is to critically examine the causes and consequences of child
labour in India. By analyzing existing literature, government reports and empirical data, the
study aims to deepen understanding of the underlying factors that drive child labour practices
and the impact they have on the lives of disabled children and society as a whole. In addition,
the study seeks to identify gaps in current policies and interventions and suggest evidence-based
recommendations for effective mitigation strategies.

II. Literature review

Historical Context of Child Labour in India:

The historical roots of child labour in India date back to pre-colonial times when children were
often employed in family economic activities such as agriculture, manual labour and domestic
work. The rise of colonialism and industrialization further intensified child labour practices as
the demand for cheap labour grew exponentially. Children were exploited in various industries,
including textiles, mining and agriculture, without regard for their rights or welfare. Despite the
abolition of certain forms of child labour during the colonial period, the legacy of exploitation
continues to influence contemporary child labour practices in India.

Page: 5456
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

Socio-economic factors contributing to child labour:

Poverty remains a major driver of child labour in India. Families living below the poverty line
often rely on the income generated by their children to meet basic needs such as food, shelter
and health care. Lack of access to quality education and employment opportunities for adults
further increases children's vulnerability to exploitation. In addition, socio-economic
inequalities, caste-based discrimination and migration contribute to the persistence of child
labour in certain regions and communities.

Cultural Influences on Child Labour Practices:

Cultural norms and traditions play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards child labour
in India. In some communities, children are seen as economic assets rather than individuals
entitled to rights and protection. Gender norms also influence child labour practices, with girls
often exposed to domestic work and care giving responsibilities from a young age. In addition,
social hierarchies and caste-based discrimination contribute to the exploitation of children from
marginalized communities.

Legislative framework and enforcement:

India has enacted various laws and regulations to address child labour, including the Child
Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 and the Right of Children to Free and
Compulsory Education Act, 2009. Despite these legislative measures, enforcement remains a
significant problem. to factors such as corruption, lack of resources and inadequate monitoring
mechanisms. Furthermore, the existence of loopholes and exemptions in the legal framework
allows for the continued exploitation of children in certain sectors such as agriculture and
informal industries.

Physical and Mental Health Consequences:

Child labour exposes children to various physical and mental health risks depending on the
nature of the work and working conditions. Children involved in hazardous forms of work such
as mining, agriculture or construction face the risk of injuries, accidents and occupational
diseases. Exposure to harmful chemicals, heavy machinery and strenuous work can lead to
physical disabilities, respiratory problems and chronic health conditions. In addition, the
psychological toll of child labour, including stress, anxiety, depression and trauma, can have

Page: 5457
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

long-term effects on children's mental well-being, affecting their self-esteem, social

relationships and overall quality of life.

Educational deprivation:

Child labour deprives children of their right to education, perpetuates the cycle of poverty and
limits their future opportunities. Many working children cannot attend school regularly or drop
out altogether to support their families financially. Inadequate access to education denies
children the chance to acquire basic knowledge and skills, hindering their cognitive
development, social integration and potential for upward mobility. Educational deprivation not
only robs children of their childhood, but also perpetuates intergenerational poverty and
socioeconomic inequality.

The intergenerational cycle of poverty:

Child labour is both a consequence and a cause of poverty and perpetuates a vicious cycle that
traps families and communities in a cycle of deprivation. Poverty forces families to rely on the
income generated by their children, leading to their exploitation in dangerous and exploitative
work environments. However, child income is often not enough to lift families out of poverty,
thus maintaining their dependence on child labour as a coping mechanism. Furthermore,
children deprived of education and opportunities to develop skills are likely to remain trapped
in insecure, low-wage jobs as adults, perpetuating the cycle of poverty between generations.

Social Stigmatization and Exclusion:

Working children often face social stigmatization and exclusion because they are seen as
inferior or less deserving of rights and opportunities compared to their peers. Stigmatization
can come from social attitudes towards child labour that view working children as uneducated,
inferior or morally deficient. As a result, working children may experience discrimination,
marginalization and social isolation, affecting their sense of belonging, identity and social
integration within their communities.

Economic consequences for families and society:

The economic consequences of child labour extend beyond individual families to society as a
whole. While child labour may provide short-term economic relief to poor families, its long-

Page: 5458
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

term consequences outweigh the immediate benefits. The persistence of child labour
undermines investments in human capital, productivity and sustainable development.
Moreover, the economic costs of addressing the health, educational and social needs of working
children, as well as the social impacts of intergenerational poverty, far exceed the economic
gains from their work. Investing in the elimination of child labour is therefore not only a moral
imperative, but also an economic necessity for the well-being and prosperity of society

Research Questions

1. What socio-economic factors contribute to the prevalence of child labour in India?

2. How do cultural norms and attitudes sustain child labour practices in different regions
and communities?

3. What is the effectiveness of existing legislative measures and enforcement mechanisms

in dealing with child labour?

4. What are the short- and long-term consequences of child labour on children's physical,
mental and socio-economic well-being?

5. What are the key challenges and barriers to eradicating child labour in India and what
strategies can be put in place to overcome them?

Result: There were 100 participants out of which 82 took part.

Figure 1

Page: 5459
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

Figure 2

Figure 3

Page: 5460
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

Figure 4

Figure 5

It is clear from the data that there is a strong consensus among respondents regarding the
multifaceted nature of child labour and the challenges associated with its resolution. Key short-
term consequences such as physical and mental health problems, together with long-term
consequences such as poverty, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive interventions.
Socio-economic factors such as poverty and lack of education have been shown to be significant
contributors to the prevalence of child labour, underscoring the importance of addressing root

Page: 5461
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

causes. In addition, cultural factors such as traditional beliefs and gender norms play a role in
perpetuating child labour practices, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive approaches
to intervention. Issues of poor enforcement and cultural attitudes further complicate efforts to
eradicate child labour, highlighting the need for strong policy frameworks and community
engagement initiatives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, addressing the complex problem of child labour in India requires a multi-pronged
approach that takes into account the socioeconomic, cultural and legislative dimensions of the
problem. The prevalence of child labour in India is fueled by deep-rooted factors such as
poverty, lack of access to education, adult unemployment and socio-economic inequalities. In
addition, cultural norms, gender biases, social hierarchies and caste-based discrimination
perpetuate the practice of child labour in various regions and communities.

Efforts to combat child labour must focus on both short-term interventions to address immediate
consequences and long-term strategies to address underlying structural problems. Short-term
interventions should prioritize protecting children's physical and mental health, ensuring access
to education and breaking the cycle of poverty. Long-term strategies should focus on eradicating
the root causes of child labour by addressing poverty, improving access to education and
employment opportunities, and challenging cultural norms that perpetuate exploitation.

In addition, effective enforcement of existing legislation, together with strong monitoring

mechanisms, is essential to deter employers from exploiting children and to hold them
accountable for their actions. However, legislative measures alone are insufficient without
addressing the underlying socio-economic and cultural factors that encourage child labour.

Page: 5462
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

References:

1. ILO. (2017). Global Estimates of Child Labour: Results and Trends, 2012-2016.
International Labour Organization. Retrieved from
https://www.ilo.org/global/publications/books/WCMS_575499/lang--en/index.htm

2. United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). (2020). Child Labour: Global estimates 2020,
trends and the road forward. UNICEF. Retrieved from,
https://www.unicef.org/media/71791/file/Child%20labour%20%20Global%20estimates%2
02020.pdf

3. International Labour Organization (ILO). (2020). Ending child labour by 2025: A review of
policies and programmes. ILO. Retrieved from
https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---asia/---ro-bangkok/---
ilonew_delhi/documents/publication/wcms_747246.pdf

4. Government of India. (2016). Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment

Act. Ministry of Labour and Employment. Retrieved from
http://labour.gov.in/sites/default/files/RevisedCLPR%282%29.pdf

5. Ray, R. (2017). Child labour in India: An overview of patterns, trends, and policy issues.
In D. Neumark & H. M. Markusen (Eds.), Handbook of Development Economics (Vol. 5, pp.
4705-4773). Elsevier.

6. Banerjee, S., & Sarkar, S. (2016). Socio-economic factors contributing to child labour
in India. International Journal of Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Studies, 3(3), 1-9.

7. Basu, K. (2018). Child labour and child schooling in India: How different are they? In
A. Basu & P. van (Eds.), The Economics of Child Labour: A Focus on South Asia (pp. 23-54).
Cambridge University Press.

8. Chaudhary, P., & Chaudhary, A. (2017). Social and cultural determinants of child labour:
A case study of Jaipur. Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 22(3), 50-54.

9. International Labour Organization (ILO). (2019). Digging Deeper into Child Labour:

Page: 5463
Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research Volume VI Issue II | ISSN: 2582-8878

Results from the Bangladesh and India Studies. ILO. Retrieved from
https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---asia/---ro-bangkok/---
ilonew_delhi/documents/publication/wcms_710522.pdf

10. Kumar, N., & Panda, A. K. (2019). The impact of child labour on school attendance and
educational attainment in India. The Indian Journal of Labour Economics, 62(3), 437-458.

Page: 5464