– 21 children (below 14 years) working in non-hazardous units.
– 190 adolescent labourers (ages 14-18):
– Includes 1 boy engaged in hazardous work and others employed in non-hazardous units (132 male, 57 female).
Published July 10, 2025.
The Labour Department’s initiative signals a decisive effort against child and adolescent labor exploitation across industries. The rescue of over two hundred minors spotlights persistent gaps in enforcement despite strict laws prohibiting such practices under India’s legal framework. Coordination between multiple departments-Police, Women Development and Child Welfare-underscores the importance of integrated actions for addressing systemic challenges like poverty-driven employment practices.
Although punitive measures and financial restitution have been implemented against offending employers during this drive, long-term solutions will likely depend on socioeconomic reforms paired with rigorous tracking mechanisms post-rescue. Ensuring rehabilitation through education programs could contribute significantly toward preventing re-entry into hazardous or exploitative labor sectors as identified during these raids.
This intervention affirms India’s obligation toward its youth but also raises questions about recurring violations openly reported from certain industries. Strengthening oversight capacity within vulnerable regions should remain a policy priority to curb such occurrences effectively.