Child Labour Act 1986 & 2016 Amendment – History, Impact, and COVID-19 Trends in India
The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 was introduced to protect children from exploitation and ensure their right to education and a safe childhood. It marked a turning point in India’s legal framework for child welfare.
History
In
the 1980s, India had a serious problem with child labour. Millions of children
were working in factories, farms, mines, and homes—often in unsafe and
unhealthy conditions. Many came from poor families and had no access to
education. Although the Indian Constitution already banned child labour in
dangerous jobs (Article 24), there was no strong law to stop it or regulate it
properly.
At
the same time, international organizations like the International Labour
Organization (ILO) and UNICEF were raising awareness about child exploitation.
Countries around the world were being encouraged to protect children’s rights
and ensure they could go to school instead of work. India faced pressure both
from within and globally to act.
Child
labour should be banned in hazardous jobs such as mining, chemical factories
and firecrackers, working conditions in non-hazardous jobs (such as shops or
family businesses) should be regulated and any person below the age of 14 years
should be defined as a "child"
The
government enacted the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act in 1986
with a view to limiting working hours and ensuring its safety
Global view on child labour
Around
the world, child labour was seen as a violation of human rights. Many countries
were making laws to stop it. The ILO created rules to protect children and
UNICEF promoted education and a safe childhood. India's 1986 Act was part of
this global movement to give children a better life.
Later amendments
In
2016, the Act was updated:
-
Children below the age of 14 were banned from working in any job, except to
help in the family business or as artists (under strict rules).
-
A new category called "Juveniles" (14-18 years) was added,
prohibiting them from doing hazardous work.
-
Punishments for breaking the law were made stricter.
- Focus was placed on rehabilitation and education for rescued children.
The 2016 Amendment to the Child Labour
(Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 brought major changes to strengthen child protection in India.
The most important update was a complete ban on employment of children below 14
years in any occupation or process, not just hazardous ones. This meant
children could no longer work in shops, homes, or family businesses—except
under very limited conditions like helping family after school or participating
in artistic activities (e.g., acting), and even then, only with safeguards.
Another key change was the
introduction of a new category called “adolescents”, defined as those aged 14 to 18. The
amendment prohibited their employment in hazardous occupations such as mining,
chemical handling, and heavy machinery. It also increased penalties for
employers who violated the law, including higher fines and possible
imprisonment.
The amendment aimed to align India’s
child labour laws with international standards and promote education for all
children. Its impact was significant: it expanded the scope of protection,
raised public awareness, and pushed employers to be more compliant. However,
challenges remain in enforcement, especially in informal sectors and rural
areas.
📄 Download Formates here
📥 Delicaration of Non Engagment in child labour formate📥 Child Labour Prohibited Poster Formates
COVID-19 impact in india (summarised information during 2022 to 2024 child laour)
Between 2022 and 2024, child labour in India saw a concerning rise across informal sectors due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 lockdown. Most reported cases involved children working in domestic roles (28%), followed by agriculture (22%), street vending (15%), and factory work (12%). Smaller shares were found in construction (10%), hazardous jobs like mining (8%), and other informal tasks (5%). These trends highlight the urgent need for stronger enforcement, rehabilitation programs, and access to education to prevent long-term exploitation.
हिंदी
में संक्षिप्त जानकारी
- बाल श्रम अधिनियम 1986 बच्चों को शोषण से बचाने के लिए बनाया गया था।
- 14 वर्ष से कम उम्र के बच्चों को खतरनाक कार्यों में काम करने से रोकता है।
- 2016 संशोधन में सभी कार्यों में बाल श्रम पर प्रतिबंध लगाया गया।
- किशोर (14–18 वर्ष) को खतरनाक कार्यों से दूर रखने का प्रावधान किया गया।
- कोविड-19 के बाद घरेलू काम, खेती और स्ट्रीट वेंडिंग में बाल श्रम बढ़ा।
💬 My Viewpoint
As
someone deeply engaged in legal education and public awareness, I believe the
Child Labour Act is a vital tool—but its success depends on active
enforcement, community participation, and rehabilitation support.
Laws alone cannot protect children unless backed by education access, economic
support for families, and consistent monitoring.
The
2016 amendment was a bold step forward, but post-pandemic realities demand
renewed focus. We must ensure that no child is forced to choose work over
school.
🧾 Summary
The
Child Labour Act, 1986, and its 2016 amendment represent India’s
evolving commitment to child protection. From banning hazardous work to
promoting rehabilitation, the law reflects both national urgency and global
responsibility. As we move forward, the goal remains clear: a safe, educated,
and empowered childhood for every child.
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