Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Slavery, during the 60th Session of the Human Rights Council, delivered by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., Counsellor & Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations Geneva on 12 September 2025
Mr. President,
We have taken note of the report presented by the Special Rapporteur focusing on the worst forms of child labour.
Mr. President,
- Government of India has undertaken several measures to eliminate child labour and safeguard children’s rights. The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 strictly prohibits employment of children below 14 years in any occupation and adolescents aged 14–18 years in hazardous work. The Act prescribes stringent penalties and makes violations cognizable offences. To support implementation, a Model State Action Plan guides States in eradicating child labour.
- For rehabilitation, the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme rescues children from work, provides bridge education through Special Training Centres, and mainstreams them into schools.
- In line with the Constitutional mandate, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 guarantees free elementary education in neighbourhood schools for all children aged 6–14 years. The National Education Policy 2020 further emphasizes early childhood care and education as the foundation of lifelong learning.
- Additionally, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 provides a child-friendly framework for care, protection, and rehabilitation of vulnerable children.
Mr. President,
- India is committed to addressing child labour through a comprehensive approach encompassing legislative, educational, and socio-economic measures.
Thank you
