“LET US SACRIFICE OUR TODAY SO

THAT OUR CHILDREN CAN HAVE A

BETTER TOMORROW.”
- APJ ABDUL KALAM

CHILD LABOR
CBSE ENGLISH PROJECT 2024-25
 It is to certify that Ms and Mr.
Angel Anu
Muhammed Shayaan
Omar Shariff
Alwin Majesh
Avni Balle
of grade XII section A have successfully completed the CBSE project
work in English on the topic Child Labor during the academic year 2024-
2025 as per the guidelines issued by the Central Board of Secondary
Education, New Delhi. It is further certified that the project work is the
group work of candidates.

Teacher's Signature
Date:
Principal

External Examine: Internal Examiner:

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 CERTIFICATE

Roll no………………………………

It is certified that Miss/Master ---------

of grade 12 section B has completed the project work in English as

prescribed by the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi during
the academic year 2024-2025

Teacher In-Charge Date

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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I am grateful to the CBSE and my school, Crescent English High

School, Dubai, for allowing us to explore a relevant and relatable
issue and hone my language, collaborative and leadership skills.
The completion of the project would not have been possible
without the kind support and help of many individuals and my
school.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of them.

I would like to express my gratitude towards my principal
Mr. Sharafuddin Thanikatt for his kind cooperation and
encouragement which helped me in the completion of this
project.

I am highly indebted to my teacher Mr. Sabin Shinos for his

guidance, constant supervision and for providing necessary
information regarding the project.
I would also like to express my thanks to my parent and my team
members who helped me in finalizing this project within a limited
time frame.

Student’s

sign: Date:

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 OBJECTIVES

 To understand causes and consequences of child

labor

 To assess impact of child labor over children

 To understand how child labor can be prevented

 Identify impact of child labor on health, education

and society

 To analyses child labor in India compared to other

countries

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 CHILD LABOR
Child labor refers to work that children are too young to perform or

that – by its nature or circumstances – can be hazardous. Unlike

activities that help children develop (such as contributing to light

housework or taking on a job during school holidays), child labor

causes harm to a child’s health, safety or moral development.

In its most insidious forms, child labor can amount to slavery or

practices similar to slavery, including the sale and trafficking of

children. In some places, children may be forcibly recruited into

armed conflict, used in the production and trafficking of drugs, or

offered into prostitution.

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 CAUSES OF CHILD LABOR
1. POVERTY
For many families, especially in rural areas, the struggle to
make ends meet is a daily reality. Parents often feel they have
no choice but to send their children to work, believing that
every little bit of income can help put food on the table.

2. LACK OF ACCESS TO EDUCATION

Imagine a child who dreams of going to school but can’t
because the nearest school is miles away, or the family can’t
afford uniforms and supplies. Without quality education,
children miss out on opportunities that could change their
futures.

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3. CULTURAL NORMS
In some communities, it’s common for children to work
alongside their parents. Here, helping with the family business
or household chores is seen as a rite of passage, and education
takes a backseat to immediate responsibilities.
4. UNEMPLOYMENT
When parents struggle to find stable work, the pressure
mounts. Many families find themselves in situations where
every family member, including children, must contribute to
the household income.

5. RURAL ECONOMY
In agricultural regions, it’s not unusual for kids to spend their
days working on farms. For them, this labor is often seen as
part of growing up, making it hard to break the cycle of child
labor.
6. MIGRATION
As families move to cities in search of better opportunities, they
often find themselves in precarious situations. Children may

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end up working in low-paying jobs just to help the family
survive.

7. WEAK ENFORCEMENT OF LAWS

While laws exist to protect children, enforcement is often

inconsistent. Many families aren’t aware of these protections,
leaving children vulnerable to exploitation.
8. ECONOMIC EXPLOITATION
Some industries take advantage of the desperation of families
by hiring children for low wages. These children often work
long hours in unsafe conditions, all for a fraction of what
adults would earn.
9. MARGINALIZATION
Children from marginalized backgrounds, such as those from
lower castes or minority groups, face additional barriers. They
often lack access to resources and support, making them more
susceptible to exploitation.
10. GLOBALIZATION

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The demand for cheap products often means companies seek
the lowest production costs, which can lead to the exploitation
of child labor. Children pay the price for consumer goods that
flood the market.

A CHILD SHOULD BE TAUGHT TO LEARN, NOT FORCED TO EARN.

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 CONSEQUENCES

1. Impact on Education
Children engaged in labor often miss out on schooling, leading
to low literacy rates and limited job prospects in the future. This
lack of education perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

2. Health Risks
Working long hours in hazardous conditions exposes children to
physical and mental health risks. Many face injuries, fatigue,
and stress, impacting their overall well-being and development.

3. Loss of Childhood
Child labor robs children of their childhood experiences. Instead
of playing and learning, they bear adult responsibilities, leading
to emotional and psychological issues.

4. Economic Consequences
In the long term, a workforce lacking education and skills
hinders economic development. Countries with high rates of
child labor may struggle to advance because their future
workforce is not adequately prepared.

5. Social Inequality
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Child labor often affects marginalized communities
disproportionately, reinforcing social inequalities and hindering
social mobility. This perpetuates cycles of disadvantage.

6. Family Stress
The pressure of relying on child labor can strain family
dynamics. Parents may feel guilt and stress over their children's
lost opportunities, which can lead to further socio-economic
challenges.

7. Exploitation and Abuse

Children in labor are often vulnerable to exploitation, including
low wages, long hours, and abuse. This exploitation can have
lasting trauma effects on their lives.

8. Legal Consequences
Engaging in child labor can lead to legal issues for families and
employers. This can further entrench families in poverty and
limit opportunities for legitimate work.

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STATISTICS AND COMPARISON
OF CHILDLABOUR TO OTHER
COUNTRIES
Child labor remains a significant issue in India and other parts of the world, particularly
in developing regions where poverty, lack of access to education, and limited economic
opportunities drive children into the workforce. Here’s an overview comparing child
labor in India to other countries, along with the factors contributing to it:

1. Global Child Labor Statistics

1. Prevalence Worldwide: According to the International Labor

Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, approximately 160 million children between
the ages of 5 and 17 were involved in child labor as of 2020. This accounts for
about 1 in 10 children worldwide.

1. Sector Distribution:

1. Agriculture (70%): The majority of child labor occurs

in agriculture, where children work on farms, in fishing,
livestock herding, and forestry. This work is often hazardous,

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 exposing children to physical strain, long hours, and the use of
dangerous equipment.

2. Services (19%): Child labor in services includes working

in shops, street vending, and domestic work. Many children
working as domestic helpers face significant risks, including
isolation and abuse.

3. Industry (11%): Children work in construction, mining,

and manufacturing sectors, including textiles, garments, and
other goods. These are often hazardous environments that can
lead to lifelong health issues.

1. Regional Variations:
1. Sub-Saharan Africa: The region has the highest rate of child
labor, with approximately 24% of children aged 5-17 involved in
labor, particularly in agriculture. Economic instability, low
school enrollment rates, and high poverty levels contribute
significantly to this figure.
2. South Asia: This region, including India, Pakistan, and
Bangladesh, has one of the largest populations of child laborers.
While overall percentages may be lower than Sub-Saharan
Africa, the sheer population size of countries like India leads to
significant numbers.

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 3. Latin America and the Caribbean: Around 7.5% of
children in this region are in child labor. Efforts in some Latin
American countries to improve education access and enforce
labor laws have had a positive effect, reducing the prevalence in
recent decades.

2. Child Labor in India

India has one of the largest populations of child laborers, with estimates
varying due to differences in data sources. While India officially reports
around 10.1 million child laborers as per the Census 2011 data, some
independent reports suggest the number could be as high as 33 million.
Child labor in India is especially pronounced in sectors such as agriculture,
manufacturing, domestic work, and informal urban jobs.

1. Sectors:
1. Agriculture: Children are involved in crop production, animal
husbandry, and fisheries, often under physically demanding
conditions.
2. Manufacturing and Factories: Children work in garment
production, carpet weaving, brick kilns, and firecracker
industries, often exposed to toxic materials and machinery.
3. Urban Informal Sector: Many children work as street
vendors, rag pickers, and in domestic labor in cities.

3. Factors Driving Child Labor in India

1. Poverty and Financial Instability: Poverty remains a leading

cause of child labor in India. Many families, especially in rural areas,
rely on the additional income that child labor brings to meet basic
needs.
2. Education Access and Quality: Many areas in India lack proper
schooling infrastructure, particularly rural regions where schools may
be far away or lack resources. This, combined with costs associated

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 with schooling, discourages parents from sending children to school
and instead involves them in work.
3. Cultural and Social Norms: In some communities, it is customary
for children to begin working at a young age. Family businesses and
certain trades often view child labor as a norm, where children are
expected to follow their parents’ trades.
4. Weak Law Enforcement and Loopholes: While India has
implemented various laws to address child labor, such as the Child
Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, enforcement is often lax.
Many industries operate in the informal economy, where labor laws
are difficult to enforce.
5. Demand for Cheap Labor: In industries such as textiles,
embroidery, mining, and domestic work, children are often preferred
due to their lower wage requirements and tendency to be more easily
managed.

4. Comparison with Other Countries and Regions

1. Bangladesh and Pakistan: In South Asia, Bangladesh and

Pakistan also face high rates of child labor. In Bangladesh, children
work extensively in garment manufacturing and agriculture, while in
Pakistan, they are found in brick kilns, carpet weaving, and other
forms of manual labor.
2. Nigeria: In Africa, Nigeria has high child labor rates, with children
commonly involved in domestic work, street vending, and farming.
Political instability and poverty make enforcement of child labor laws
difficult.
3. Brazil and Mexico: Both countries have made progress in reducing
child labor, especially through education initiatives and enforcement
of labor laws. However, child labor persists, particularly in
agricultural and domestic sectors.

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5. Efforts and Initiatives to Reduce Child Labor

1. Government Programs in India:

1. Right to Education Act (RTE): Introduced in 2009,
RTE mandates free and compulsory education for
children aged 6 to 14, aiming to reduce child labor by
keeping children in school.
2. Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation)
Amendment Act, 2016: This act prohibits
employment of children below 14 years in any
occupation and restricts employment of adolescents
(14-18 years) in hazardous occupations. Despite this,
enforcement is challenging.
2. International Organizations and NGOs:
1. UNICEF: Works with the Indian government to create
child protection programs and improve access to
education.
2. Save the Children: Has various initiatives to rescue
children from labor, rehabilitate them, and provide
education.
3. Global March Against Child Labor: An
international movement that advocates against child
labor globally, including India, with programs to
promote education and end child labor practices.
3. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Some
companies are working to eliminate child labor in their
supply chains. Brands are increasingly monitoring suppliers
to ensure compliance with child labor laws.

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 GOVERNMENT POLICIES

Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016

4. This law is a crucial step in protecting children. It makes it illegal for

anyone to employ children under 14 years in any job, emphasizing that
childhood should be about learning and growing, not working.

Right to Education Act, 2009

5. This law ensures that every child has the right to free and compulsory
education up to age 14. It recognizes that education is not just a
privilege but a fundamental right, aiming to keep children in
classrooms instead of factories or fields.

Factories Act, 1948

6. This act protects children working in factories, forbidding those under

14 from working in hazardous conditions. It sets safety standards to
ensure that children aren’t exposed to dangers that could harm them
physically or mentally.

Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act, 1976

7. This law helps combat the exploitation of children who are forced to
work to pay off family debts, ensuring that no child is trapped in a
cycle of bonded labor.

Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

8. This act focuses on the protection and rehabilitation of children in

difficult situations, including those rescued from child labor, aiming to
provide them with a safe and nurturing environment.

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 PREVENTION STRATEGIES
1. Strengthening Law Enforcement
Imagine a community where families feel safe knowing
that laws protecting children are actively enforced.
Regular inspections by local authorities can help ensure
that children are in school, not working long hours in
factories. When laws are upheld, it sends a strong
message that childhood is meant for education and joy.

2. Community Awareness Programs

Think of a community gathering where parents share
stories about the importance of education. Workshops and
outreach programs can help families understand the long-
term benefits of keeping their children in school. By
hearing testimonials from former child laborers who have
transformed their lives through education, parents may
feel inspired to prioritize their children’s schooling over
short-term income.

3. Access to Education
Imagine a child who walks just a few minutes to a bright,
welcoming school instead of miles to a field or factory.
Building schools in rural areas and providing scholarships
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can make a world of difference. When children see
classrooms filled with friends and teachers who care, they
become excited about learning and envisioning their
futures.

4. Economic Support for Families

Consider a single mother struggling to make ends meet.
Programs that offer financial assistance or job training for
parents can ease the burden on families, allowing them to
keep their children in school. When a parent receives
support, they can focus on nurturing their child’s
education without the stress of immediate financial
pressures.

5. Skill Development Programs

Picture an older child learning valuable skills in a
vocational training program. These programs can offer
practical training that prepares youth for better job
opportunities once they finish school. By providing
pathways to stable careers, we empower young people to
break free from the cycle of poverty and child labor.

6. Collaboration with NGOs

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Imagine a dedicated group of volunteers from a local
NGO working tirelessly in the community, helping
families understand their rights and access resources. By
partnering with organizations that have established trust
within communities, efforts to combat child labor can be
more effective. NGOs can provide education,
rehabilitation, and advocacy, turning hope into action.

7. Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms

Think about a community where everyone is vigilant and
looks out for one another. Establishing easy-to-access
reporting channels allows community members to alert
authorities when they see children working in unsafe
conditions. This empowers individuals to take a stand,
fostering a culture of care and protection for children.

8. Engagement with Industries

Imagine a local business owner proudly announcing that
they do not employ child labor and are committed to
ethical practices. When businesses prioritize child labor-
free policies, it encourages others to follow suit. This
creates a ripple effect, changing societal norms and
ensuring that children can grow up free from exploitation.

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