The Union Cabinet has approved the amendment in Child Labour Act, which paves a complete ban on employment of children below 14 years. It has also a warning that children can engage themselves in family businesses, entertainment and sports activities after school or in vacations. The punishment for employing a child under 14 years have been increased to jail term of three years and fine of up to Rs 50,000.

As per the amendment, Children can be employed only in,

• Non-hazardous family enterprises
• TV serials
• Films
• Advertisements
• Sporting activities (except circus)

with a condition that they would be made to do these jobs after school hours.

The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act of 1986 banned the employment of children up to the age of 14 in only hazardous occupations. The approved amendment bill prohibits employment of children below 14 years in all occupations and processes.

The Cabinet has also barred employment of adolescents (14 to 18 years) in hazardous occupations and processes like chemicals and mines.

Tidbits

• As per the 2011 Census report, there 4.35 million of child labours all over India.
• The National Sample Survey Office’s survey of 2009-10 put the number at 4.98 million.
• Article 24 of Indian constitution prohibits child labour.
• Child labour in India are employed with the majority (70%) in agriculture.
• Other than agriculture, children are employed huge number in fireworks manufacture, silk manufacture, diamond industry, coal mining, carpet weaving..etc