As per 2001 census, the total number of working children between the age group of 5-14 years in the country was 1.26 crore.
However, in the survey conducted by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 2004-05, the number of working children was estimated at 90.75 lakhs which had further declined to 49.84 lakhs, as per NSSO survey in 2009-10.
The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in 18 occupations and 65 processes. The Act also regulates the working conditions of children where they are not prohibited from working.
Any person who employs a child in any occupation or process where employment of children is prohibited under the Child Labour Act is liable for punishment with imprisonment and/or with fine.
As per the data received from various States, the details of inspections carried out, prosecutions launched convictions made against the offenders under the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 during the last five years are as under:
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) is implementing a centrally sponsored scheme i.e. Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) for rehabilitation and reintegration of children in difficult circumstance, including children rescued from labour.
These children are provided rehabilitation in Children’s Homes. Financial assistance under ICPS is provided for setting up and maintenance of various types of Homes, including Children Homes for rescued children. The recurring funds provided by the Government of India is Rs. 20.29 lakh per year for a Home of 50 children, this includes food, clothing, medicines, toiletries, bedding, transportation, rent, electricity, water charges and salary of ten full time staff in three shifts, etc.
A grant of Rs. 6.50 lakh is also provided for meeting up-gradation of accommodation facilities and its maintenance. The Scheme is currently being reviewed by the Government to enhance all facilities and norms in these Homes.
This was stated by Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister for Women and Child Development, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha today.
